Dubai: Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a cooperation agreement with Glydways, a global leader in Automated Transit Networks (ATN). The agreement marks the launch of the first automated programme for an automated transit network, introducing a new model of smart and sustainable mobility in Dubai. The initiative supports the public transport ecosystem and provides effective solutions for first- and last-mile journeys.
According to Emirates News Agency, Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai's RTA, signed the agreement on behalf of RTA, while Mark Seeger, Co-Founder and CEO of Glydways, signed on behalf of Glydways. This collaboration was formalized on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2025.
Glydways' ATN features autonomous electric vehicles that operate independently of road traffic on compact, narrow guideways. These guideways use lightweight structures that can be either elevated or deployed at ground level, minimizing impact on existing infrastructure. The system offers on-demand, personal vehicle services for point-to-point travel, reducing journey times and allowing customization of climate control and entertainment systems, all while delivering zero local emissions.
The system enables the virtual platooning of over 10 vehicles with a one-second headway. Each vehicle can carry 4 to 6 passengers and travel at speeds up to 50 km/h. Equipped with 20 high-resolution LiDAR sensors, advanced radar systems, and high-definition cameras, the vehicles adhere to safety and availability standards comparable to mass transit systems.
The agreement also includes the study of proposed initial routes, such as a pilot route connecting the National Paints Metro Station to Bluewaters Island over 2.8 km. Additional routes will link Dubai Metro stations to key destinations like Madinat Jumeirah, Alserkal Avenue, Times Square Centre, and Dubai Festival City to enhance integration with the Dubai Metro network.
Mattar Al Tayer stated that the agreement aligns with leadership directives to bolster Dubai's global leadership in adopting smart and sustainable mobility solutions. This initiative aims to improve quality of life, enhance public transport efficiency, and integrate future mobility modes. RTA's collaboration with global companies and innovative start-ups is part of exploring impactful solutions for flexible and safe first- and last-mile journeys.
Al Tayer also highlighted the system's high operational capacity, capable of transporting over 20,000 passengers per hour in both directions. The system promises capital cost savings of up to 90% and operational cost reductions of up to 70% compared to other transport modes. The project will be implemented under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, applying global best practices in autonomous vehicle and artificial intelligence deployment.
Mark Seeger expressed pride in partnering with RTA, noting that this collaboration underscores Dubai's reputation as a testing ground for future mobility solutions. Glydways aims to support seamless movement between neighborhoods, and launching the system in Dubai is a milestone for the company. Bluewaters Island will serve as a showcase for the network's ability to deliver high-capacity, on-demand transport at lower costs, enhancing the passenger experience.
