Dubai is taking another step forward in improving how people move around the city. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced plans to expand dedicated lanes for buses and taxis, while also studying an innovative trackless tram system that could be introduced in eight different locations across the emirate.<\/p>\n
Over the next two years, the RTA will add six new dedicated bus and taxi lanes stretching 13 kilometers. Once completed, the total length of these priority lanes will reach 20 kilometers. The goal is simple: make public transport quicker and more reliable. Officials expect the new lanes to increase ridership by 10 percent, improve bus punctuality by 42 percent, and cut journey times by 41 percent. For daily commuters, that means shorter waits and smoother trips.<\/p>\n
At the same time, Dubai is looking into a more futuristic option \u2014 a trackless tram. Unlike traditional trams that run on steel rails, this system operates on a virtual track. Electric, self-driving vehicles follow painted road lines using advanced camera technology. Because there are no physical rails to install, the system costs less to build and can be completed faster than conventional tram projects. It also offers greater flexibility, making it easier to introduce in new or developing areas.<\/p>\n
These projects are part of Dubai\u2019s long-term vision to build a smart and fully integrated transport network. The city continues to expand its metro, tram, and bus services, while strengthening marine transport and shared mobility options such as ride-hailing services, hourly car rentals, and on-demand buses. Artificial intelligence is also playing a growing role behind the scenes, helping manage data, improve efficiency, and create a smoother travel experience for passengers.<\/p>\n
The numbers show that more people are choosing public transport. In 2025, total ridership across public transport and shared mobility services reached 802.1 million passengers, compared to 747.1 million in 2024 \u2014 a solid 7.4 percent increase. On a daily basis, around 2.2 million people used public transport in 2025, up from 2 million the year before.<\/p>\n
Dubai Metro continues to lead the way, carrying 294.7 million passengers on its Red and Green lines and accounting for 37 percent of total ridership. Taxis made up 26 percent of trips, slightly down for the third year in a row \u2014 a sign that more residents and visitors are shifting toward mass transit options. Public buses transported 197.2 million passengers, representing 25 percent of total usage.<\/p>\n
Shared mobility services have been steadily gaining popularity. Their share has grown from 6.2 percent in 2023 to 9 percent in 2025, serving 72.9 million passengers last year alone. Marine transport carried 18.4 million riders, maintaining a 2 percent share, while Dubai Tram transported 9.9 million passengers.<\/p>\n
Luxury limousine services, though not included in public transport totals, also saw growth, serving 23.6 million riders in 2025 compared to 19.2 million the previous year.<\/p>\n
Altogether, these developments reflect Dubai\u2019s continued push to make public transport the first choice for getting around the city. By expanding infrastructure, embracing smart technology, and offering a wide range of mobility options, Dubai is working to enhance quality of life and reinforce its status as one of the world\u2019s most dynamic and connected cities.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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