Dubai is advancing plans for a transformative three-dimensional transport network that integrates underground tunnels, surface-level autonomous vehicles, and aerial flying taxis to enhance mobility across the emirate. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is exploring an extensive underground system designed not only to move passengers but also to support the transit of goods and services, with the aim of alleviating surface road congestion and promoting more efficient urban logistics.
The initiative was detailed by Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, during the Mohammed Bin Rashid Leadership Forum 2026. Al Tayer described Dubai’s vision of reshaping urban mobility by leveraging three interconnected layers: subterranean, surface, and aerial transport.
Historically, Dubai’s transport infrastructure has expanded visibly through elevated roads, bridges, and metro lines. The proposed underground network marks a shift in focus to developing a hidden layer of infrastructure capable of supporting economic activity and improving land use above ground. This system would potentially reduce vehicular pressure on streets, facilitate commercial deliveries, and enable the creation of more pedestrian-friendly environments in urban neighborhoods.
While the concept is still in the study phase, key details such as network routes, capacity, costs, and timelines have not yet been finalized. However, the anticipated impact includes offering additional commuting alternatives during peak hours, enhancing accessibility to essential services like schools, healthcare, and workplaces, and introducing innovative urban logistics solutions for businesses.
The underground infrastructure could also influence broader urban planning by freeing surface space for public amenities, walking and cycling paths, and community facilities. The extent of these benefits will depend on future project design, financing, and integration with existing transport networks.
A significant component of this underground vision is the Dubai Loop, a tunnel-based system developed in collaboration between the RTA and The Boring Company. Unlike the Dubai Metro, which serves as a high-capacity mass transit system, the Dubai Loop aims to facilitate point-to-point passenger transport through dedicated electric vehicle tunnels in selected high-traffic areas, providing a complementary mode of connectivity.
Dubai’s ongoing transport development also includes major projects such as the Dubai Metro Blue Line and the recently announced Dh3 billion Dubai Metro Gold Line, which collectively illustrate the emirate's commitment to expanding and diversifying its mobility infrastructure.
The three-dimensional transport framework underscores Dubai’s broader goal to enhance urban mobility, reduce congestion, and support sustainable growth by combining cutting-edge technologies and integrated planning across multiple transport layers.