The Trackless Tram features three carriages, carries up to 300 passengers, operates at speeds up to 70 km/h, and runs on virtual tracks/ Image: DXB Media Office
At the world’s largest technology exhibition, GITEX Global 2025, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is making a significant statement about the future of smart mobility. From October 13 to 17, the Dubai World Trade Centre will host over 6,800 companies from 180 countries and more than 200,000 attendees, including 400+ government entities. The event, known for spotlighting cutting-edge advancements in AI, robotics, and IoT, serves as the ideal platform for RTA to debut 11 ambitious projects. Among these, the most prominent is the Trackless Tram, a transformative solution aimed at redefining public transport in Dubai. RTA’s participation highlights its long-term vision to embed artificial intelligence, predictive technologies, and the Internet of Things into every layer of its operations, in alignment with Dubai’s broader smart city ambitions. “Our projects reflect the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to position Dubai as the smartest and happiest city in the world,” said Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA.“We are leveraging AI and big data analytics to deliver predictive, proactive, and integrated transport services that enhance quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”
The Trackless Tram: Dubai’s next leap in public transport
Spearheading RTA’s showcase this year is the Trackless Tram, a next-generation mass transit solution that does away with conventional fixed rail infrastructure. Instead, the tram uses optical navigation, LiDAR, GPS, and camera-based guidance systems to follow painted lines on dedicated lanes. This virtual tracking method eliminates the need for traditional tracks, allowing for greater flexibility in routing and significantly reducing construction time and cost. Originally reviewed on November 3, 2024, by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, the Trackless Tram is a major part of the RTA’s Main Roads Development Plan for 2024–2027. The RTA confirmed that the system is expected to be deployed across eight locations in Dubai, marking a substantial expansion of the emirate’s surface transport capabilities. This fully electric and autonomous tram represents a sustainable alternative to existing modes of transport. It offers a seamless integration with Dubai’s existing smart transport network, which includes the Dubai Metro — one of the world’s most efficient driverless metro systems, and the Dubai Tram, which was the first outside Europe to be powered by a ground-based electric supply. Key specifications of the Trackless Tram:
- Three-carriage configuration, capable of carrying up to 300 passengers
- Top speed of 70 km/h; operational speeds between 25 to 60 km/h
- Single battery charge range: up to 100 km
- Operates autonomously, detects obstacles in real time, and adjusts path accordingly
- Offers lower capital and operational costs and faster deployment compared to traditional rail systems
By deploying this tram, RTA aims to not only improve transport efficiency but also make strides in urban sustainability, reduce emissions, and align with the emirate’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2030 — which aims to make Dubai a global model in AI-powered infrastructure.
GITEX 2025: World’s biggest stage for smart solutions
GITEX Global 2025 continues to be a key destination for governments, startups, and corporations showcasing how technology is transforming cities and lives. More than just a tech expo, it’s a platform for exchanging ideas on real-world applications of innovation — from public safety to urban mobility. RTA’s pavilion at GITEX this year reflects this spirit. Beyond the Trackless Tram, the authority is unveiling 11 innovative products and platforms, each aligned with its mission to create an intelligent, integrated, and sustainable transport ecosystem. These projects demonstrate how AI, automation, and smart infrastructure can collectively support Dubai’s ambition to become a globally recognised digital capital.
Highlight projects by RTA at GITEX 2025
In addition to the Trackless Tram, RTA is showcasing the following key initiatives:
- Smart Connected Vehicles Network
A core component of Dubai’s traffic infrastructure, this AI-powered system uses Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) to manage real-time traffic. It has led to a 25% reduction in delays and 30% decrease in operational costs. - AutoCheck 360
An automated vehicle inspection platform using AI and IoT. It cuts inspection time from 17 minutes to 7 minutes, improving both speed and accuracy. - Smart Mobility Platform for Safe Cities
An IoT-driven platform that monitors commercial transport operations, including school buses and delivery vehicles, analysing driver performance and ensuring safer roads. - Safe Tracks Rail Inspection System (ARIIS)
Employs laser scanning and computer vision to detect minute rail defects. It has reduced rail inspection times by 70%. - Aerial Taxi (Joby S4)
The world’s first urban aerial taxi, currently in local trials. Once deployed, it will cut travel time from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah to just 10 minutes, down from 45 minutes by road.
- AI Factory
A state-of-the-art research and development environment combining data scientists and AI engineersto transform ideas into practical projects that drive the future of smart mobility in Dubai. - Interactive Smart Kiosks & Digital Channels
Designed to enhance user experience through live video support, Nol card management, trip planning, and real-time alerts via the updated S’hail and RTA Dubai apps.
