Dubai is set to curb traffic congestion with Glydways, a new autonomous electric pod system launched at the World Governments Summit 2026. Glydways pods glide above or alongside roads on narrow tracks, avoiding jams entirely. Mark Seeger, CEO of Glydways, said operations will start within four months, a huge step toward Dubai's target of 25% autonomous trips by 2030. Each pod carries 4 to 6 passengers and runs without drivers, using sensors and cameras to navigate safely. The system is on-demand, so passengers board pods when needed, not by fixed schedules. Glydways pods can reach 50 km/h and travel long distances on one electric charge, linking metro stations, homes, tourist spots, and business areas. The electric pods produce zero emissions, helping Dubai’s green goals. The main focus is solving the “last-mile” problem—the short travel gap from metro stations to final destinations. This makes public transport quicker and easier, attracting more commuters. Initial routes include: - Bluewaters Island: from National Paints Metro to Bluewaters district - Umm Suqeim: from Mall of the Emirates Metro to Madinat Jumeirah - Al Quoz Corridor: from OnPassive Metro to Alserkal Avenue and Times Square - Dubai Festival City: internal network, soon connecting to Metro Blue Line The RTA designed Glydways to serve seniors and people with special needs comfortably. Mattar Al Tayer, RTA Director-General, said integrating smart mobility like Glydways and upcoming Air Taxis is about improving quality of life in Dubai, the world’s most future-ready city. With Glydways, Dubai is leading the way in smart, clean, and efficient urban transport.