Dubai E611 lanes and Al Maktoum airport tunnel to close for taxi tests, 26–31 October

Dubai has scheduled three E611 lane closures and a full shutdown of the Al Maktoum International Airport Tunnel for autonomous taxi testing from 26–31 October 2026.

The restrictions apply daily from 9am to 4pm, Dubai time (GST, UTC+4), according to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announcement reported by Khaleej Times.

Which roads are affected?

On Emirates Road (E611), the notice covers three lanes opposite Al Maktoum International Airport. At the Al Maktoum International Airport Tunnel, it covers the entire tunnel in both directions.

The distinction matters when planning a journey: the announcement does not describe a full closure of Emirates Road.

LifeAtDubai information graphic based on the RTA announcement. This is not a diversion map.

What are the closure dates and hours?

The six-day schedule runs from Monday, 26 October, to Saturday, 31 October 2026, with restrictions between 9am and 4pm each day.

Dubai Eye’s report reproduces the RTA’s 25 October announcement, which gives the same dates, times and affected locations.

LifeAtDubai schedule graphic. All times are local to Dubai.

Why are the closures taking place?

The RTA says the restrictions will allow autonomous taxi companies to carry out highway testing.

The closure notice does not give a commercial service launch date for the airport area. It is a traffic advisory about testing, rather than an announcement of a new passenger service.

What should drivers do?

The RTA advises motorists to plan journeys ahead and follow directional signs.

If your route uses the affected lanes or tunnel, check current traffic information before leaving and allow extra travel time. Follow the signs at the closure points rather than assuming a particular highway is the designated diversion.

For airport journeys, factor possible road delays into your departure time and check your airline’s arrival guidance.