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RTA Announces Major Public Transport Expansion in Dubai: What It Means for Property Buyers in 2026

Dubai has announced a major expansion of its public transport network, introducing trackless trams and new dedicated bus and taxi lanes to reduce congestion and improve commute times across the city.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) confirmed that the initiative is designed to enhance connectivity, improve punctuality, and support Dubai’s long-term urban growth strategy. For property buyers and investors, this development is more than a mobility upgrade  it directly impacts property values, rental demand, and long-term capital appreciation.


Trackless Tram: A New Era of Smart Mobility

At the centre of the expansion is the introduction of a trackless tram system  an autonomous, electric transit solution that operates on virtual tracks. Instead of physical rails, the tram uses optical navigation, GPS, LiDAR, and AI-powered sensors to follow painted road markings.

The system will be rolled out across eight key locations in Dubai and offers several advantages over traditional trams:

  • Lower construction costs
  • Faster deployment timelines
  • Reduced infrastructure disruption
  • Fully electric and environmentally efficient

Each tram will consist of three carriages, carrying up to 300 passengers, with operating speeds between 25–60 km/h and a maximum speed of 70 km/h. A single charge allows travel of up to 100 km.

This complements Dubai’s existing metro and tram systems while enhancing connectivity to emerging communities.


Expansion of Dedicated Bus & Taxi Lanes

In addition to the tram project, RTA is expanding its dedicated bus and taxi lane network. Six new corridors covering 13 km will increase the total network length to 20 km.

According to RTA projections, the expansion is expected to:

  • Reduce bus journey times by 41%
  • Improve punctuality by 42%
  • Increase public transport ridership by 10%

This is a significant step toward reducing private car dependency and strengthening sustainable urban mobility.


What This Means for Dubai Real Estate

Infrastructure expansion has historically been one of the strongest drivers of property price growth in Dubai. Improved transport links enhance accessibility, reduce commute times, and increase demand in well-connected communities.

Areas expected to benefit from improved mobility include:

Connectivity improvements often translate into stronger rental demand and capital appreciation over time, particularly in emerging residential zones.


Off-Plan Projects Positioned for Infrastructure Growth

Several off-plan developments located within expanding infrastructure corridors may benefit from this transport upgrade:

Improved transport infrastructure strengthens long-term investment fundamentals, especially for buyers targeting rental returns or end-use convenience.


Public Transport Usage Continues to Rise

Dubai’s public transport system recorded 802 million passengers in 2025  a 7.4% year-on-year increase. This steady growth reflects a shift in commuting behaviour and reinforces the city’s push toward sustainable mobility.

As Dubai moves toward making public transport the preferred choice for daily commuting, communities aligned with metro, tram, and bus corridors are likely to see sustained demand.


Long-Term Urban Impact

The trackless tram and expanded bus network align with Dubai’s broader urban development strategy, including Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan objectives focused on sustainability, density optimisation, and quality of life.

For buyers and investors, infrastructure-led growth often signals early-stage value opportunities in emerging districts before full maturity pricing takes effect.

At Aurantius Real Estate, we closely monitor transport and infrastructure developments to help clients identify properties positioned for long-term appreciation and strong rental demand.

If you’re considering investing in areas benefiting from enhanced connectivity, our team can guide you toward strategic opportunities aligned with Dubai’s evolving transport network.

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