Technology

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled an innovative public transport solution, the Rail Bus, a 3D-printed, solar-powered vehicle designed to enhance urban mobility. The autonomous system, still in development, was showcased at the World Government Summit 2025 at Madinat Jumeirah.

The Rail Bus, with its sleek gold and black exterior, features two rows of orange seats and designated spaces for disabled passengers, ensuring accessibility for all commuters. Each carriage can accommodate 40 passengers, including 22 seated. Screens above the seats will display real-time updates on journey details, including upcoming stops, weather conditions, and travel time. Passenger safety instructions are displayed within the vehicle, alongside control panels on both ends of the carriage.

The eco-friendly system, running on elevated tracks, is expected to operate at speeds of up to 100 km/h. Measuring 2.9 meters in height and 11.5 meters in length, the bus is fully powered by solar energy and functions autonomously. The lightweight, scalable structure minimizes environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.

The Rail Bus aligns with Dubai’s broader sustainability and smart mobility goals, including the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy, Dubai's Zero-Emissions Public Transport Strategy 2050, and the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy 2030, which aims to transition 25% of daily trips to autonomous transport.

Dubai's leadership, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, alongside Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, visited the RTA platform at the summit to review the project.

While the official launch date remains unconfirmed, the Rail Bus is expected to transform Dubai’s public transport landscape, reinforcing the city's reputation as a global leader in smart, sustainable mobility.

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