An artist's impression of the Abu Dhabi Light Rail Transit. SUPPLIED

Abu Dhabi is set to introduce a light rail tram network connecting Yas Island attractions to Zayed International Airport, as part of sweeping plans to transform the emirate’s transport system. The Abu Dhabi Light Rail Transit (LRT) project was revealed by the Abu Dhabi Transport Company (ADT) during the Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition and Conference. Approved by the Department of Municipalities and Transport, the project will be rolled out in three phases. The base phase begins at Yas Gateway Park, running through Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit, and Yas Bay, before extending across to the mainland and branching out to Zayed International Airport, Etihad Plaza, and Al Raha Mall. A map displayed at the event also hinted at a possible tram link to Disneyland Abu Dhabi, though officials have yet to confirm the location. “Right now, only a few bus lines connect downtown Abu Dhabi to the airport. We wanted to strengthen that link, and ADT is helping provide that connectivity,” said Cheryl Chan, strategic adviser in planning and development at Abu Dhabi Airports. ADT also unveiled plans for the Urbanloop project—a futuristic French autonomous transport system using pod-like vehicles—which will begin trials on Reem Island within six months. The pods can carry between two and 12 people, moving up to 1,500 passengers per hour, and are designed with enhanced dust protection and air conditioning for UAE conditions. Abu Dhabi is also exploring automated people movers for airport expansion and personal rapid transit systems for VIP passengers. The emirate has been piloting driverless technologies, including a trackless tram from Marina Mall to Reem Mall and WeRide’s robotaxis, as part of its strategy to rank among the world’s top 30 cities in the Global Traffic Index by 2045. ICA/Expat Media
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