Dubai is moving closer to rolling out its futuristic self-driving, trackless tram system, a next-generation mode of transport designed to ease congestion, boost connectivity, and redefine sustainable mobility across the city.
A comprehensive feasibility study for the project is expected to be completed by mid-2026 — or possibly as early as the first quarter of that year — according to Dawood Alrais, Director of Rail Maintenance at Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Speaking exclusively to Khaleej Times on the sidelines of Gitex Global 2025, Alrais confirmed that the new system will be integrated with the Dubai Metro and play a major role in achieving the emirate’s ambitious goal of making 25 percent of all transport driverless by 2030.
Unlike traditional trams, Dubai’s trackless trams will not require rails. Instead, they will follow a “virtual track” using cutting-edge smart navigation technologies such as LiDAR (light detection and ranging), optical sensors, and GPS. This innovation allows them to move seamlessly through city streets while keeping construction costs and environmental impact to a minimum.
“Trackless trams will significantly reduce road congestion and operational costs while offering a high-capacity, eco-friendly transport option,” Alrais said.
Smarter Design, Smoother Travel
Each tram will feature three carriages capable of carrying up to 300 passengers, more than three times the capacity of a regular bus. The trams will operate on dedicated lanes to ensure safety and efficiency, similar to the existing bus lanes in parts of Dubai.
The vehicles will run on electric batteries, with a single charge allowing a range of up to 100 kilometres — nearly the distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. With a top speed of 70 km/h and an operational range of 25–60 km/h, the system promises to offer a faster commute than the existing Dubai Tram, which averages just above 20 km/h.
Despite their size — measuring between 32 and 42 metres in length — trackless trams will maintain agility thanks to rubber tyres and an impressive 12-metre turning radius, compared to 18 metres for conventional trams.
Eco-Friendly and Future-Ready
First unveiled in November 2024 to mark the 10th anniversary of Dubai Tram, the trackless tram initiative is part of a broader RTA strategy to expand public transport options while meeting sustainability targets.
By eliminating the need for fixed rail infrastructure, the system offers a smaller environmental footprint, reduced maintenance costs, and faster implementation timelines.
While initial plans mention eight locations for the rollout, Alrais hinted that the network could expand to cover more areas as demand grows.
“This project is designed to meet Dubai’s long-term vision for a seamless, connected, and smart public transport ecosystem,” he said.
As Dubai transitions into a smarter, greener metropolis, the trackless tram represents another bold step toward a fully integrated, autonomous transport future — one where efficiency, sustainability, and innovation ride side by side.
