Driverless pods on elevated tracks could soon be seen in Dubai

 This project aims to establish Dubai as a frontrunner in low carbon mass transport, thereby influencing the global adoption of this innovative concept.

The Floc Duo Rail system, a driverless and electrically powered mode of transport, operates on an elevated track. It stands out for its environmental benefits, notably reducing carbon emissions to 50% compared to other urban off-road transport alternatives. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, supporting Dubai Vision 2033's objective to position the city as a sustainable, knowledge-based, and innovation-driven global hub.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by Abdulmuhsen Ibrahim Kalbat, CEO of Dubai’s Rail Agency, and Kevin O’Grady, CEO of Urban.MASS, in the presence of Ricky Sandhu, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Urban.MASS, and Oliver Christian, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Pakistan and HM Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

Abdul Mohsen Kalbat, Chief Executive Officer, Rail Agency remarked: “The RTA has signed this memorandum as part of its strategic plans to enhance and operate the world's first innovative transportation system called the 'Floc Duo Rail.' This system features double tracks that allow transportation units to move swiftly and efficiently within urban areas and operate without a driver. Moreover, it uses electrical energy.

“This system uses short units during low peak periods and long units during high peak periods to meet the Emirate's needs effectively.

“This step reflects the RTA's strategy for achieving sustainable development and improving the city's quality of life. The Authority reinforces its commitment to adopting the latest technologies and innovations in transportation, which enhances the passenger experience in the Emirate of Dubai.”

The agreement was formalised at the Dubai International Project Management Forum on 18th January 2024.

Ricky Sandhu, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder, Urban.MASS expressed his enthusiasm: “This commitment to the adaptation and deployment of our Floc Duo Rail concept in Dubai is an exciting moment for Urban.MASS. We are grateful to our partners here in the UAE – RTA is a leading light in adopting innovative transport solutions, and we are inspired to work with their teams to demonstrate the advantages of the system. This is bigger than us as a company – it is about reducing emissions, providing efficient, low carbon transport that uses state-of-the-art technology, boosting UK business overseas and developing new relationships. We can’t wait to get started.”

The deal not only marks a critical step in bringing the Floc Duo Rail system from concept to reality but also strengthens UK-UAE business relations in sustainable transport.

Oliver Christian, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Pakistan and HM Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates commented on the partnership: “I’m thrilled to see UK innovation in green mobility so strongly demonstrated here today. This agreement between urban.MASS and Dubai’s RTA is testament to the strength of the UK and the UAE’s joint commitment to reduce climate change, paving the way for sustainable mass transit through technology that will change the way people move around the city.”