Upcoming transport projects in Abu Dhabi
One of the primary drivers of the Abu Dhabi economy is its extensive transport network. The government has invested heavily in infrastructure development and introduced policies that encourage private sector contributions as well. Looking into the future, here are some fantastic new transportation projects in Abu Dhabi that will elevate the city to a new era and improve the standard of living for residents.
LIST OF UPCOMING TRANSPORT PROJECTS IN ABU DHABI
The list of future transport projects in Abu Dhabi reflects the government’s desire to keep pace with the times and address the challenges residents face.
THE ABU DHABI LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT (LRT)
Part of Abu Dhabi’s latest transport initiatives is a new tram network, which will connect Yas Island to Zayed International Airport. The project by Abu Dhabi Transport Company (ADT) was announced at the Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition and Conference held in September 2025.
The project will be built in three phases. The first phase will commence at Yas Gateway Park to connect with Yas Island, cutting commute time to attractions like Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit and Yas Bay. The tram will continue further to connect Zayed International Airport, Etihad Plaza and Al Raha Mall.
A map of the tram shows a stop at Disneyland Abu Dhabi, but the location of the attraction is yet to be confirmed. The capacity of the tram would be 6,630 passengers per hour, and it will have a maximum speed of 100 kph.
The project will not only boost tourism in the city but also help residents who need to commute for work or leisure.
URBANLOOP
ADT has also announced trials of the Urbanloop project. This is one of the upcoming transport projects in Abu Dhabi that would start in the next six months. It uses pod-like vehicles for first and last-mile transportation. Reem Island has been selected as the location to test this French autonomous Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system.
Urbanloop debuted in the Paris Olympics; however, the vehicles used in the capital would be purpose-built with advanced air-conditioning and enhanced dust protection. It would be able to accommodate up to eight individuals at a time, four sitting and four standing. The pods will be bicycle and wheelchair friendly and carry up to 1,500 passengers per hour. As per reports, the speed at which the pods are being tested is around 20 kmph.
The idea behind Urbanloop in Abu Dhabi is to bypass stations and give passengers a chance to reach their final destination without having to stop and wait. Two parallel tracks will run with four or five pods.
If the trials are successful, Urbanloop will become a part of the integrated transport in Abu Dhabi.
ETIHAD RAIL
One of the most significant transport projects in the country, Etihad Rail, is set to make a massive impact upon its launch. The infrastructure of the project is already complete, and cargo trains are operational.
The passenger train between the capital and Dubai is set to commence operations from 2026. Over 13,000 workers constructed this 256 km track, which goes through 60 crossings, 29 bridges and 137 drainage channels. The train will travel at a maximum speed of 350kph and cut down the travel time to just 30 minutes.
The Etihad Rail network will connect Abu Dhabi, KIZAD, Port Khalifa, Port Jebel Ali, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai and Fujairah.
ROBOTAXI
A UAE-based autonomous mobility solutions company under Kintsugi Holding, Autogo, has been conducting RoboTaxi service trials in Abu Dhabi. The 6th-generation RT6 RoboTaxi was designed to run as a ride-hailing service.
The company is working in collaboration with Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) to improve local transport strategies, align with the regulatory frameworks and develop the infrastructure requirements.
After the trial, the plan is to go for a full launch in 2026. As part of the future transport projects in Abu Dhabi, RoboTaxi will enhance road safety by reducing human driving errors. These will be fully electric vehicles and hence sustainable. The advanced AI-driven system will ensure consistent driving with real-time response to the surrounding conditions.
FAQs
CAN I TRAVEL AROUND ABU DHABI IN PUBLIC TRANSPORT?
Yes, you can. Please read our guide on Abu Dhabi’s public transport to learn more.
IS THE TRACKLESS TRAM SERVICE IN ABU DHABI OPERATIONAL?
Yes, it is operational. Read our extensive guide to find out more about the Abu Dhabi Trackless Tram Service.
This concludes our look at the upcoming transport projects in Abu Dhabi. These projects will benefit residents and tourists by reducing commute times and opening up new opportunities for businesses. Greater connectivity within Abu Dhabi and other emirates would prove fruitful in the long run.
Title Image Credit: AutoGo
