Small self-driving vehicles…an innovative system in Dubai that transports 10,000 people per hour and avoids congestion

The Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai revealed a new initiative that constitutes a qualitative shift in the future of urban mobility, by launching an innovative system known as “Glydways”, which relies on a network of small, self-driving electric vehicles that travel through narrow paths designated for them, avoiding traditional traffic congestion.

The new system, which was presented by Dubai Roads during the World Government Summit 2026, is one of the smart solutions to enhance the efficiency of transportation within cities, as it has a capacity of more than 10,000 people per hour in each direction, which makes it a practical and sustainable option to reduce pressure on current road networks and improve the daily transportation experience.

“Glydways” self-driving electric vehicles operate at speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour, and accommodate 4 to 6 passengers per vehicle, with an operational range of up to 250 kilometers per charge, which reflects high energy efficiency and supports environmental sustainability goals.

Four main paths have been identified for the project covering vital areas in Dubai, which are:
-Bluewaters Track (2.8 km): It starts from Jebel Ali Metro Station (formerly National Paints) all the way to Bluewaters Island (test track).
-Umm Suqeim Path (1.9 km): It connects the Mall of the Emirates metro station to Madinat Jumeirah.
-Al Quoz Path (2.6 km): It extends from the “On Pacific” metro station to “Alserkal Avenue” and “Times Square” complex.
-Dubai Festival City Route (7 km): serves the Festival City area with the possibility of future connection to the Blue Metro Line.

The project is characterized by low operating and infrastructure costs compared to traditional means of transportation, in addition to its reliance on self-driving technologies and artificial intelligence, as well as the possibility of operating a large number of vehicles virtually within one network, ensuring smooth movement and rapid response to demand.

The “Glydways” system comes within the framework of Dubai’s vision aimed at establishing its position as a world-leading city in smart and sustainable mobility solutions, and supporting its strategy to transform into an environmentally friendly city, offering innovative and safe transportation options that keep pace with the aspirations of the future.