Rail Bus: Dubai launches a game-changer new public transport system
Each novel bus has the capacity of 40 passengers with a maximum speed of 100 km/h
Dubai: Rail Bus, a game-changer solar public transport system has been launched at the World Government Summit 2025 which opened today in Dubai.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed Rail Bus, an innovative solar-powered mass transit system designed to redefine urban mobility. The system, featuring autonomous driving capabilities and a sustainability-driven design, is set to revolutionise public transport by offering an efficient, environmentally friendly alternative.
Mohammed bin Rashid visits the Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) stand at the World Governments Summit. During the visit, His Highness reviewed RAILBUS, a sustainable future mass transit system powered by solar energy and Therme Dubai project, a wellbeing resort and… pic.twitter.com/d5wzXaHsra
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) February 10, 2025
During his visit to the Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) stand at the World Governments Summit, Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA.
Discover the new ‘Rail Bus’ by #RTA at the #WorldGovSummit 2025, with an operational speed of 100 km/h, and a capacity of 40 passengers. pic.twitter.com/ZXjUs0omfN
— RTA (@rta_dubai) February 10, 2025
Rail Bus Advancing Dubai’s Sustainability Vision
Sheikh Mohammed received a briefing from Mattar Al Tayer on Rail Bus, which aligns with the UAE Net Zero Strategy 2050, Dubai Net Zero Emissions Public Transport Strategy 2050, and the Dubai Autonomous Transport Strategy 2030. The latter aims to make 25% of all trips in Dubai autonomous by 2030.
Al Tayer said: “Rail Bus is solar-powered, highly efficient, and cost-effective. It seamlessly integrates with Dubai’s public transport network and enhances first and last-mile connectivity, ensuring safe and sustainable travel for residents and visitors."
Innovative Carriage Design and Features
Al Tayer highlighted RAILBUS's cutting-edge carriage design, which incorporates high-efficiency components and sustainability-focused technology. The carriages are built using 3D printing technology and recyclable materials, contributing to a lightweight seven-tonne structure.
Each carriage measures 11.5 metres in length, 2.6 metres in width, and 2.9 metres in height, with a passenger capacity of 40 and a maximum speed of 100 km/h.
“The interior features a modern design with spacious seating, ambient lighting, and onboard Wi-Fi,” HE Al Tayer noted. “Additionally, RAILBUS boasts significantly lower infrastructure and operational costs—20-30% less than comparable transport systems—due to its lightweight structure and reliance on solar power.”
RTA plans to complete technical studies on RAILBUS within the next two years, after which pilot operations will be launched to assess its efficiency and integration with Dubai’s transport network.
Therme Dubai: A New Landmark in Wellbeing Tourism
Alongside Rail Bus, Sheikh Mohammed also reviewed the Therme Dubai project, a world-class wellbeing resort set to be the first of its kind in the Middle East. Located in Zabeel Park with an estimated investment of AED 2 billion, the project will feature wellness zones, diverse thermal pools, luxury floors, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Spanning 500,000 square feet and reaching a height of 100 metres, the resort aims to accommodate 1.7 million visitors annually.
Therme Dubai will include three distinct zones:
Play Zone: A family-friendly area combining fun, entertainment, and health-focused activities.
Relax Zone: Dedicated to adults, featuring relaxation pools, steam rooms, and mineral treatments.
Restore Zone: A rejuvenation space with thermal complexes, saunas, and innovatively designed mineral treatment baths.
Developed by Therme Group, a global leader in wellbeing destinations, the resort will house the world’s largest indoor botanical garden, enhancing urban biodiversity. It will also incorporate advanced sustainability measures, including 90% water recycling and 80% energy needs met through clean energy sources.
Therme Dubai is designed to be more than a wellness destination; it will serve as a cultural hub, hosting artistic performances and immersive experiences. The project integrates Roman, Turkish, Japanese, and Nordic bathing traditions to offer a holistic relaxation and entertainment experience.
With Dubai continuously shaping the future of sustainable urban development and wellness tourism, projects like RAILBUS and Therme Dubai are set to reinforce its position as a global leader in innovation and environmental responsibility.