Dubai's New Automated Transport: Glydways

Dubai's New Automated Transport: Get Ready for Glydways

Dubai is once again a step closer to realizing the city of the future. The latest innovation promising a revolution in urban transportation is none other than the Glydways driverless transport system. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a cooperation agreement with Glydways, launching Dubai's first automated transport network program. The goal is to rethink short-distance urban travel, reduce traffic congestion, and ensure sustainable, personalized mobility.

What is Glydways?

Glydways is a new type of driverless transport system based entirely on electric vehicles. The fundamental idea of the system is that passengers travel in personalized, on-demand "capsules" directly from point A to point B, without stops or transfers. This mode of transportation essentially combines the flexibility of private cars with the efficiency of public transport.

The vehicles operate with artificial intelligence-supported autonomous control and are independent of traditional road traffic. The tracks they travel on are narrow gauge, which can be installed either above ground or running on the surface, minimizing conflict with existing infrastructure.

Why is this solution revolutionary?

A key element of the Glydways system is the so-called "virtual platooning": more than ten vehicles can travel with just one second of distance between each other, as if they were part of a train, yet independently. This makes the system not only flexible but also comparable in capacity to public transportation.

Each vehicle is capable of carrying four to six passengers at a speed of up to 50 km/h. Safety is ensured by 20 high-resolution LiDAR sensors, radars, and HD cameras, enabling fully autonomous operation.

Where it will be especially useful

Glydways is particularly advantageous in areas where existing infrastructure is limited or where pedestrian and vehicular traffic is dense. In these places, conventional vehicles or larger transit equipment are no longer effective solutions, but the capsule-based system can be integrated easily.

The first test phase will kick off around Bluewaters Island later this year. This area provides an ideal environment to test the system's performance in a real-world setting. If the trial is successful, the system could be expanded to more locations across Dubai in the next two to three years.

Potential future routes

Under the agreement, several potential routes will be studied. The first test route will be a 2.8-kilometer section connecting the National Paints metro station with Bluewaters Island. Additionally, there are plans to develop further routes that link the Dubai Metro lines with key destinations, such as Madinat Jumeirah, Alserkal Avenue, Times Square Centre, and Dubai Festival City.

This integration allows passengers to switch seamlessly between the metro and Glydways system, improving overall urban mobility.

Cost-effectiveness and sustainability

One of the primary advantages of the system is its low operational and investment cost. According to the RTA's leadership, investment costs can be reduced by up to 90% compared to other transport modes, while operating expenses can be as much as 70% lower. This is beneficial not only from a financial standpoint but also environmentally, as the system has zero local emissions.

Glydways also offers personalized experiences for passengers: individualized temperature control, entertainment features, and a calm, private space – all while maintaining a safety level on par with traditional public transportation.

Why Dubai?

Dubai is one of the world's most innovative cities, continuously integrating new technologies into urban development. Launching Glydways in this ecosystem is a logical step, as the city is an ideal testing ground for scalable, intelligent transport systems.

According to the CEO of Glydways, Dubai offers an excellent terrain to prove that a new capsule-based mode of transport can also be a fast, efficient, and accessible solution for urban travel. The technology promises nearly seamless travel between city districts – with lower costs, less stress, and minimal environmental impact.

Summary

The introduction of the Glydways system marks another milestone in Dubai's transport development strategy. The network of autonomous, electric vehicles is not just another technological feat but a concrete response to the challenges of urban congestion, climate change, and growing travel demands.

If the testing phase is successful, you might soon be stepping into a Glydways capsule – and without stopping for other passengers, it will take you directly to your destination: quickly, conveniently, and environmentally friendly.