Automated Rapid Transit service has been introduced on the streets of Abu Dhabi City

This past weekend, residents in Abu Dhabi City witnessed the introduction of Automated Rapid Transit (ART) service on the city's streets. His three-carriage, air-conditioned electric vehicle now makes predetermined stops on major routes and chimes while the driver waits for passengers. The ART service, a rail-less vehicle that resembles a cross between a bus and a tram, is marked with the Department of Municipalities and Transport's (DMT) Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). It was initially launched on Yas and Saadiyat Islands, and it is currently servicing the mainland.

The ARTs are running between Reem Mall and Marina Mall along Zayed the First Street, also known as Electra Street, in what is intended to be the next phase of Abu Dhabi's future smart mobility scheme. The eco-friendly, emission-free service is now available throughout the city on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The unique electric cars can carry up to 200 passengers, boosting the city's sustainable mobility. The seating layout is identical to that of the Dubai Metro, with soft seats, straps for standing passengers, panoramic windows, and digital stop notification. It changes lanes as smoothly as a conventional public transit vehicle.

ARTs stop in designated areas in certain places; in others, they stop at conventional public bus stations. The stops are indicated on the pavement with stickers. A livery of an ART was also seen on a bus stop to raise awareness among commuters about the city's latest smart mobility product. The upgraded fast transportation system that operates without the need of a mass transportation train system or tracks is a significant improvement in easing urban travel. It comes shortly before a busy season in which the Capital is expected to host more than 150 events, a figure that is expected to grow with each passing month.

Residents are pleasantly delighted to see a Dubai tram-like vehicle running in Abu Dhabi City but without any special tracks or city infrastructure upgrades. Residents praised the service, which coincided with the UAE's 'Year of Sustainability' festivities. Essentially, trackless trams on wheels, these ARTs currently connect Reem Mall and Marina Mall through popular destinations like the Galleria Al Maryah Island, Marina Square, Sheikh Hazza Bin Sultan Mosque, the iconic Qasr Al Hosn, Khalidiya Park, the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre, Sheikha Fatima Park, Corniche, hospitals like NMC Specialty and LLH, and hotels like City Seasons Al Hamra, Sheraton Al Khalidiya and Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi.

The first journey from Reem Mall begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m., while service from Marina Mall begins at 11 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the live timings may be monitored via Google Maps and the official app Darbi. Commuters can also scan the QR codes on the ARTs and those advertised at select bus stops to learn more about the service, timetables, and additional destinations.