Dubai drivers should expect some daytime delays this week. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that three lanes on Emirates Road (E611) and the Al Maktoum International Airport Tunnel will be closed for six days. The restrictions began on Monday, October 26, and will continue until Saturday, October 31. The reason is simple. Autonomous taxi companies need the roads to run highway tests.
The closures will be in place every day from 9 am to 4 pm. That could affect daily commuters, people travelling between emirates, and passengers heading to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
Which Roads Will Be Affected?
The RTA has announced two temporary restrictions. Here is how they look side by side.
| Location | What will happen | Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates Road (E611), opposite Al Maktoum International Airport | Three lanes closed. | Daily, 9 am to 4 pm |
| Al Maktoum International Airport Tunnel | Fully closed in both directions | Daily, 9 am to 4 pm |
If you pass through this area during those hours, follow the directional signs, check traffic before you leave and keep some extra time in hand.
Which Alternative Roads Can You Use?
There is no single best route, because it depends on where you start and where you are going. Always check live navigation before you pick one. Nearby roads may also get busy.
E311, also called Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, links Dubai with Sharjah and the northern emirates. For some trips, it may work instead of parts of E611. It is not a direct replacement for every journey to DWC, so check your travel time first.
E44, or Al Khail Road, serves many residential and business areas across Dubai. It can help with some cross-city trips, but drivers heading to DWC should check whether it gives them a practical link.
E11, or Sheikh Zayed Road, is one of the main highways in Dubai. It may suit some journeys, but reaching DWC from E11 could mean extra connections and a longer drive.
One important point. The RTA notice confirms the lane closures and the tunnel shutdown, but it does not name these highways as official diversions. So follow the road signs and the latest guidance on your navigation app.
A Few Simple Steps Before You Drive
Check live traffic on a navigation app before you leave home. Compare journey times on E311, E44 and E11 if they apply to you. Follow the RTA diversion signs. Avoid last-minute lane changes, and never enter a closed section.
Travelling to Al Maktoum International Airport?
Passengers going to or from DWC should plan for extra time. The lane closures and the tunnel shutdown could slow down road access during the restriction hours.
It helps to leave earlier than usual and check your route before setting off. Confirm your flight status and your airline’s advice on airport arrival time. Taxis and ride-hailing trips may also take longer if the roads are jammed.
Public transport can help for part of the trip. Check RTA Metro and bus links, give yourself time for transfers, and plan the route ahead. Do keep in mind that there is no direct Metro connection to DWC. Some people may find it easier to use public transport first and take a taxi for the last stretch.
One more thing to know. These road restrictions do not mean any problem with flights.
Why Are the Roads Closing?
The closures are there so autonomous taxi companies can test on a highway. Dubai is building its driverless transport network, and these tests show how the cars handle real traffic.
Robotaxis are already running as a paid service in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah. People can book rides through Uber and the Apollo Go app. WeRide taxis are available on Uber, while Apollo Go rides are booked on its own app. Pony.ai is also part of the RTA’s wider autonomous programme.
How Far Has the Robotaxi Rollout Come?
The RTA shared some figures in August 2026, and they show steady progress.
| Robotaxi figure | Number |
|---|---|
| Distance travelled since launch | More than 4 million km |
| Passenger trips completed | 7,613 |
| Vehicles in the fleet | 144, with 48 in active use |
| Trips per day | Around 50 |
| Customer satisfaction | 97%, according to the RTA |
The first rollout began with 100 autonomous taxis, and more will be added in stages as demand grows. The wider goal is big. Dubai wants 25% of all transport trips to be autonomous by 2030. This sits under the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy.
The demand is there too. RTA data for the first half of 2026 shows that public transport, shared mobility and taxis carried 348 million riders. That works out to about 1.9 million a day.
Will Driverless Taxis Run Near DWC?
The new highway tests near Al Maktoum International Airport support Dubai’s plan to grow its autonomous transport. However, the RTA has not said when paid robotaxi services will start around the airport.
A Quick Word on Staying Safe
When roads are closed and lanes shift, people sometimes rush or take risky turns. That is a good way to collect a fine. If you want a clear idea of what can happen to your car after a serious violation, read this explainer on Dubai vehicle impoundment rules, fines and penalties.
What to Remember
The E611 lane closures and the airport tunnel shutdown will stay in place from 9 am to 4 pm every day until Saturday, October 31. If you drive along Emirates Road or you are heading to DWC, check live traffic, leave early and follow the official signs. Use public transport for part of your trip if that works for you.
The closures are only temporary, and a little planning can save you a lot of time on the road.