Dubai enters the future of public transport
Dubai has shown the world how top-notch public transport infrastructure can be built from the ground up in 15 years. Now the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is preparing to take the city into the future — one where taxis are flying in the sky and commuters are moving around in driverless cars.
In line with the Dubai SelfDriving Transport Strategy, the RTA seeks to convert 25 per cent of total mobility journeys in the city into smart self- driving trips by 2030.
The authority has been working with leading tech firms worldwide in carrying out tests on various types of vehicles, autonomous mobility means, and future mobility means.
It started the trial run of an electric self- driving 10-seater vehicle, and the first air taxi capable of carrying two persons.
After which, the RTA tested some automated mobility pods and conducted the pilot operation of the first autonomous taxi in the region.
Sustainability is another key focus for the future of public transport, so the authority has also been looking into wireless charging for electric buses and eco-friendly abras.
“The RTA constructed the Enterprise Command and Control Centre, the most sophisticated in the use of smart technologies. The centre, which handles 75 million information per day, assists with the sound journey planning to cope with various mobility challenges in the emirate,” said Al Tayer.
RTA is forging ahead with projects and initiatives to improve public transport infrastructure, roads and the standard of living in the city to bring happiness to all.” Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, director-general, RTA