Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has issued an important traffic advisory for motorists, including UAE citizens and residents, announcing temporary closures affecting sections of a major highway and an airport tunnel. The restrictions begin on Monday, October 26, 2026, and will remain in place for six consecutive days, requiring drivers to plan their journeys carefully.

According to the authority, three lanes on Emirates Road (E611), opposite Al Maktoum International Airport, will be temporarily closed. In addition, the Al Maktoum International Airport Tunnel will be completely closed in both directions during the announced periods, affecting motorists travelling through the surrounding road network.

The closures are scheduled to take place daily from October 26 through October 31, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. This represents a seven-hour restriction period each day. The announced measures apply to the specified hours and locations rather than constituting a continuous, around-the-clock closure of Emirates Road.

RTA explained that the temporary restrictions are necessary to allow autonomous taxi companies to conduct highway testing operations. These trials form part of Dubai’s broader efforts to develop intelligent mobility solutions and assess advanced driverless vehicle technologies under real-world road conditions.

The authority has urged motorists to plan their journeys in advance and follow all directional signs installed around the affected areas. Drivers using Emirates Road or travelling near Al Maktoum International Airport should remain attentive to temporary traffic arrangements and allow sufficient time to reach their destinations.

The advisory is particularly relevant to daily commuters, professional drivers, logistics operators and airport passengers whose journeys may involve the affected locations. Motorists are encouraged to check official traffic updates before travelling and consider possible changes to their usual routes during the announced testing hours.

Importantly, the full closure applies specifically to the Al Maktoum International Airport Tunnel in both directions, while the restriction on Emirates Road concerns three lanes opposite the airport. The announcement does not state that the entire E611 highway will be closed. Further information and traffic guidance can be obtained through the official communication channels of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority.

Source: Dubai Roads and Transport Authority