Dubai Road Closures: E611 Lanes and Al Maktoum Airport Tunnel Affected Until October 31

Motorists in Dubai face temporary traffic restrictions this week as authorities make way for autonomous taxi testing on key roads.

Three lanes on Emirates Road (E611) and the Al Maktoum International Airport Tunnel are scheduled to be closed from Monday, October 26, until Saturday, October 31, according to reporting by Gulf News.

The restrictions are expected to apply daily between 9am and 4pm, potentially affecting commuters, motorists travelling between emirates and passengers heading to Al Maktoum International Airport.

Why are the roads closing?

The temporary restrictions are intended to facilitate highway testing by autonomous taxi companies. The testing forms part of Dubai's wider efforts to develop driverless transport and expand the use of smart mobility technologies.

As autonomous vehicles move from controlled testing environments towards wider deployment, road testing helps assess their performance in real-world traffic conditions.

What should motorists do?

Drivers travelling through the affected areas should allow additional time for their journeys, check navigation apps before setting off and follow road signs and instructions from traffic authorities.

Those travelling to the airport should plan ahead, particularly during the daytime closure period.

Motorists should also check official Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announcements for any changes to the restrictions or recommended alternative routes.