Across the Gulf, urban mobility is increasingly being shaped by integrated planning, infrastructure investment and long-term city development strategies. As cities grow and density increases, transport is being designed to support more connected, accessible and efficient urban environments.

This theme explores how smarter policy, transit-oriented development and multimodal mobility hubs are being used to deliver 20-minute city models and more seamless movement across urban networks.

New mobility technologies are moving rapidly from concept to deployment. From cargo drones and urban air mobility to autonomous and driverless transport, cities are beginning to integrate these systems into everyday networks.

This theme will examine how regulation, safety frameworks, certification and public acceptance are shaping the rollout of advanced mobility solutions. Sessions will also explore how cities such as Dubai are positioning autonomous transport as part of a wider, future-ready urban mobility ecosystem.

Data, AI and connected infrastructure are reshaping how public transport and rail systems are operated and maintained. Operators are using digital tools to improve efficiency, reliability and asset performance.

This theme will explore analytics-driven planning, automation, cyber resilience and the practical application of IoT and digital twins, supported by real-world case studies in digital operations and lifecycle maintenance.

Freight and trade connectivity remains a strategic priority across the Gulf, with growing focus on multimodal logistics and rail-enabled corridors. Rail freight is increasingly viewed as a critical link between ports, industrial zones and regional markets.

This theme explores digital freight corridors, smart logistics systems and supply-chain automation, alongside how new rail freight links are strengthening port connectivity and supporting intra-regional trade.

As mobility networks expand, passenger expectations across the region are shifting towards journeys that are more connected, intuitive and reliable. Public transport systems are being designed around seamless movement across modes rather than individual services.

This theme will examine how innovation in service design, digital systems and infrastructure is improving passenger experience across public transport networks.

As fleets decarbonise and digitise, governments and industries are being challenged to deliver change at scale. Policy, financing and operating models are becoming just as critical as vehicle technology.

This theme will explore fleet electrification, automation and connectivity, alongside transition policy, funding structures and the role of global capital in accelerating the region’s mobility goals.