Dubai Road Closures This Week for Driverless Taxi Testing: Timings and Travel Tips

Dubai Announces Temporary Road Restrictions

Motorists in Dubai should prepare for temporary traffic disruptions as authorities carry out highway testing for autonomous taxi companies.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced closures affecting Emirates Road (E611) and the Al Maktoum International Airport Tunnel.

The restrictions will remain in place from October 26 to October 31, 2026.

Three lanes on Emirates Road, opposite Al Maktoum International Airport, will be closed during the testing period.

The measures are intended to support trials as Dubai continues to develop its driverless transport network.

Closure Timings and Affected Locations

The road restrictions will apply daily between 9am and 4pm throughout the six-day period.

Three lanes of Emirates Road (E611), opposite Al Maktoum International Airport, will be unavailable to motorists.

In addition, the Al Maktoum International Airport Tunnel will be completely closed in both directions.

Drivers who regularly use these routes during daytime hours may need to adjust their usual travel plans.

Motorists should check road signs and official traffic updates before setting off.

Why Are the Roads Being Closed?

The temporary closures will allow autonomous taxi companies to conduct highway tests in Dubai.

These trials form part of the emirate’s wider efforts to develop smart mobility and introduce more driverless transport options.

Testing on public roads requires traffic arrangements to help create suitable conditions for the operations.

The closures are therefore expected to affect traffic around the designated road sections during the announced hours.

Drivers should remain alert for instructions from traffic authorities while travelling through nearby areas.

Travel Tips for Dubai Motorists

Drivers heading towards Al Maktoum International Airport or using Emirates Road should allow additional time for their journeys.

Where possible, consider adjusting departure times to avoid the affected routes between 9am and 4pm.

Follow temporary traffic signs and directions from authorities rather than relying solely on familiar routes.

Check official traffic announcements before leaving, especially if travelling for work or an airport connection.

Planning ahead can help reduce delays while the autonomous taxi testing programme continues.