A novel transit experience has arrived in Abu Dhabi, with the debut of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles, resembling tram-like electric buses. These cutting-edge vehicles, serving as part of the Smart Mobility Project, now operate on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, linking Reem Mall with Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi via a convenient 14-stop route.
Originally launched on Yas Island in December, these autonomous buses offer a seamless and efficient mode of transportation for up to 240 passengers. The ART service includes prominent stops at various attractions, encompassing Marina Square, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Sheikh Hazza Bin Sultan Mosque, City Seasons Al Hamra Hotel, Lifeline Hospital, NMC Specialty Hospital, Qasr Al Hosn, Sheraton Khalidiya Hotel, Khalidiya Park, Sheikha Fatima Park, Corniche, and Marina Mall.
The service schedule is designed to meet the needs of commuters, with the initial journey departing Reem Mall at 10 am and arriving at Rixos Marina Mall in just over an hour. There are five services in each direction, commencing on the hour from Reem Mall and returning at quarter past the hour. The final service arrives just after 4 pm.
Passengers can easily access the service timings and track the vehicles using the Darbi app, available from the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi. Moreover, utilizing the free ART service is made simple by scanning the QR code on the vehicle with the Txai app.
Highlighting the overarching vision of a driverless future, the Smart Mobility Project, in collaboration with the DMT, ITC, and Bayanat, aims to establish an advanced smart mobility system across the emirate. The project’s current fleet includes an array of driverless taxis, mini Robobuses, and ART vehicles, accompanied by a network of 15 charging stations.
On both Yas and Saadiyat Islands, the self-driving taxis and robobuses operate between 8 am and 8 pm, fostering seamless travel experiences for residents and visitors. The growing implementation of driverless vehicle technology signifies Abu Dhabi’s commitment to pioneering innovative transportation solutions and providing an enhanced urban mobility experience for its residents and tourists alike.