The service is another great step towards sustainable transport
Spotted some trams that seem to be operating trackless in Abu Dhabi?
Well, move aside Dubai trams, because Abu Dhabi now has a new Automated Rapid Transit (ART) service! This three-carriage, air-conditioned electric vehicle now makes designated stops on popular routes and chimes as the driver waits for passengers to hop on for a ride.
The rail-less vehicle usually described as a combination of a bus and a tram, bears the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) markings of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
The trackless trams were first introduced on Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, and has now made an appearance in the city as well. Operating between Reem Mall and Marina Mall via Zayed the First Street, the eco-friendly, emission-free service runs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Holding up to 200 passengers, the seating arrangements are similar to what has been seen in Dubai Metro, with plush seats, straps for standing passengers, panoramic windows, and digital notification of stops.
The improved rapid transport system operating without a mass transport train system or rails is a great addition to easing urban travel. And it’s the perfect time, coming just before the UAE capital’s busiest events season kicks off.
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.
Commuters can also scan the QR code on the ARTs and those posted at some of the bus stops, to know further details and updates about the service, timings, and new destinations.
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