Abstract: A device is disclosed for the automatic operation of a sliding door particularly a sliding door of a vehicle which in a final closure phase follows a path which is arcuate or inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of closure. An endless belt is provided, to which the door is fixed, and the belt is mounted between two pulleys. One of the pulleys has a fixed position with respect to the door frame, and the other pulley can be displaced between limits on a pivoted arm, suitably guided, so as to accommodate the transverse movement of the door relative to the door frame.