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From Etihad Rail To Electric Abra, 11 Futuristic Transport Systems Coming Soon To The UAE!

Buckle up for the future, UAE! 

by Deeplata Garde
From Etihad Rail To Electric Abra, 11 Futuristic Transport Systems Coming Soon To The UAE!

If you thought the Dubai Metro or trams were the peak of modern travel, wait till you see what’s rolling (and flying) in next. Here’s a roundup of 11 futuristic transport systems coming soon to the UAE.

11 Futuristic Transport Systems Coming Soon To The UAE

1. Etihad Rail

The Etihad Rail is probably the most awaited project in the UAE. This 1,200km-long railway network will connect all seven emirates and even have potential extensions to neighbouring GCC countries. Once operational, you’ll be able to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in just 57 minutes and reach Fujairah in 105 minutes. It’s designed for both passenger travel and cargo transportation, giving the UAE a significant boost in efficient logistics.

2. RAILBUS

Next up, we have the RAILBUS, a futuristic mode of transport introduced by RTA (Roads and Transport Authority). This solar-powered bus on tracks is made using 3D printing technology and will accommodate 40 passengers at a time. Its purpose? Reduce carbon footprint and offer sustainable, affordable travel. The RAILBUS is set to align with UAE Net Zero Strategy 2050, aiming for a greener future

3. Dubai Loop

Imagine stepping into a pod in Downtown Dubai and re-emerging in Dubai Marina within minutes. Sounds crazy, right? Well, Elon Musk and Dubai are making it happen through the Dubai Loop. This underground transport system will function like a “wormhole,” eliminating long travel times and reducing traffic congestion.

4. Seaglider

Ready to glide over the waters at 290km/hr? The Seaglider will combine the speed of an aircraft and accessibility of a boat, allowing passengers to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in just 30 minutes for around AED 165. The electric Seaglider is energy-efficient and is expected to revolutionise coastal travel between cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

5. Flying Taxis

Dubai is all set to make flying taxis a reality by 2026. These zero-emission electric aircrafts will carry four passengers plus a pilot and reach speeds of 322km/hr. The initial phase will connect key locations like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and DXB Airport. If you ever dreamt of flying over Dubai’s skyline, that dream is about to come true.

6. Driverless Taxis

Another major project is Dubai’s Driverless Taxis powered by Cruise, a US-based company. These autonomous vehicles aim to reduce road accidents by 90%, as most accidents occur due to human error. By 2030, 25% of trips in Dubai will be self-driven, aligning with Dubai’s Smart City Vision. The trial runs have already started, and it’s only a matter of time before you can book a self-driving car from your app.

7. Electric Abra

Say goodbye to noisy boats and hello to zero-emission Electric Abras! These autonomous boats will glide along Dubai Creek without a captain, reducing carbon emissions while offering a smooth water travel experience. Plus, they’ll have obstacle-detection features, making them completely safe for public transportation.

8. Sky Pods

If you’ve always admired cable cars, you’ll love this! Dubai and Sharjah are introducing Sky Pods, where small electric pods will transport passengers between major locations. These suspended transport pods will significantly cut down travel times and offer panoramic views of the city while being energy-efficient.

9. Hyperloop

Yes, you read that right! The Hyperloop train by Virgin Hyperloop will cut the travel time between Dubai and Abu Dhabi from 2 hours to just 12 minutes. The train will travel at an unbelievable speed of 1,000 km/hr, making it one of the fastest ground transportation methods in the world. However, the official launch date is yet to be confirmed.

10. Pod Rail System

The Floc Duo Rail System is another futuristic addition to Dubai’s public transport. Unveiled at Gitex Global 2024, these self-driving pods will operate both on the ground and suspended in the air. It’s designed to reduce congestion, enhance travel efficiency, and connect major transport hubs like the Metro.

Also Read: From Metro To Paid Parking, Dubai RTA Releases Ramadan Timings For All Transport Modes

11. Ras Al Khaimah Air Taxis

Ras Al Khaimah is also hopping on the futuristic bandwagon with air taxis expected to launch by 2027. The taxis will connect major locations like Al Marjan Island to Jebel Jais within 20 minutes, a journey that usually takes over an hour by road. The goal is to offer quick air transportation and reduce road congestion in the emirate.

Further details are yet to be disclosed, but you know it’s going to be groundbreaking for transportation in UAE!

Cover Image Courtesy: Etihad Rail, Dubai RTA/ X

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First Published: March 11, 2025 1:29 PM