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Dubai maps out 65 locations for first phase of driverless RoboTaxi rollout

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Dubai is moving closer to a driverless future after the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) mapped out 65 locations across the city for the first phase of its autonomous RoboTaxi rollout.

The locations, spread across two operational zones, will serve as the initial areas where driverless taxis begin operating on public roads. According to an RTA presentation, 17 locations fall within Zone One, while 48 are in Zone Two, marking the most extensive approval yet for autonomous taxis in the emirate.

Control centre opens as RoboTaxi plans gather pace

The rollout is tied to Baidu’s Apollo Go autonomous taxi programme, following the opening of its Autonomous Vehicles Operations and Control Centre at Dubai Science Park, the company’s first such facility outside China.

Fully driverless trials get green light

In a major milestone, RTA has granted Apollo Go Dubai its first permit to conduct fully autonomous vehicle trials without a safety driver behind the wheel. The move clears the way for a commercial autonomous ride-hailing service, which is currently targeted for launch in the first quarter of 2026.

1,000 RoboTaxis planned

The 65 mapped locations will act as the foundation for a much wider expansion. Apollo Go plans to scale its autonomous fleet in Dubai to more than 1,000 vehicles in the coming years, significantly expanding driverless transport options across the city.

What it means for residents

  • Driverless taxis are coming closer to daily use: With 65 locations approved, residents may soon start seeing RoboTaxis operating on public roads in familiar neighbourhoods.
  • More transport options: RoboTaxis will add another on-demand mobility choice alongside taxis, ride-hailing apps and public transport, especially in busy areas.
  • Focus on safety first: The initial rollout is limited to mapped zones and will be closely monitored from a central control centre, with real-time safety oversight.
  • Convenience without a driver: Fully autonomous vehicles mean trips without a human driver, offering a new experience in urban travel once commercial services begin.
  • Part of a bigger mobility shift: The rollout supports Dubai’s goal of making 25% of all trips autonomous by 2030, which could reduce congestion and improve efficiency over time.
  • Gradual expansion: While early operations will be limited to specific areas, the long-term plan includes scaling up to more than 1,000 RoboTaxis across the city.

As trials continue, Dubai is positioning itself at the forefront of smart mobility, bringing driverless taxis closer to everyday life on the city’s streets.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Motorist alert: Abu Dhabi lowers speed limits on major roads from this Monday

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Drivers in Abu Dhabi are being advised to slow down and check road signage as new lower speed limits come into force on three of the capital’s busiest roads from Monday, February 9.

Abu Dhabi Mobility has confirmed that the updated limits apply to key routes leading to Al Ain, Bani Yas, and Al Rawdah, as part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and traffic flow.

Which roads are affected?

E22 Abu Dhabi – Al Ain Road

  • Speed limit reduced from 160km/h to 140km/h
  • Applies from Al Nahda Interchange to Bani Yas Interchange
  • In effect, in both directions

Bani Yas Interchange to Bridge Complex

  • Speed limit reduced from 140km/h to 120km/h
  • Applies in both directions

E30 Al Rawdah Road

  • Speed limit reduced from 120km/h to 100km/h
  • Applies in both directions

Motorists are advised to watch for updated road signage and adjust their driving accordingly.

Part of wider road safety changes

The latest reductions are part of a broader series of traffic and speed management measures introduced across Abu Dhabi in recent months.

Previously announced changes include:

  • Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed International Road: reduced from 160km/h to 140km/h
  • Abu Dhabi–Sweihan Road: reduced from 120km/h to 100km/h
  • A reduction to the minimum speed limit on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road in late 2025
  • Introduction of variable speed limits on Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street, with limits set at 100km/h or 80km/h depending on factors such as weather and traffic conditions

Authorities say the measures are designed to enhance road safety, traffic flow and accident prevention, particularly on high-speed routes.

Advice for motorists

Drivers are urged to:

  • Follow updated speed limit signs
  • Allow extra travel time
  • Stay alert to variable speed limits
  • Avoid fines by complying with the new regulations

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Dubai officially launches fully autonomous taxis as Sheikh Hamdan rides Baidu driverless vehicle

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Dubai has officially launched the operational phase of fully autonomous RT6 taxi vehicles, marking a major milestone in the emirate’s push toward future mobility and smart transport solutions.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, inaugurated the service after taking a ride in the driverless RT6 taxi, developed by Baidu Apollo Go, to the World Governments Summit at Madinat Jumeirah.

The move clears the way for the public launch of autonomous taxi services in the first quarter of 2026.

Why AI taxis are good for city roads

The RT6 autonomous taxis rely on artificial intelligence, advanced sensors and real-time decision-making systems to operate safely across urban environments and open roads.

Each vehicle is equipped with more than 40 sensors, including:

  • LiDAR
  • Radar
  • High-resolution cameras

These systems allow the taxis to detect surroundings, respond instantly to traffic conditions and navigate complex city streets with precision.

The vehicles use advanced software that combines real-time data, high-definition maps and deep-learning algorithms, enabling them to safely interact with intersections, pedestrians and other vehicles while fully complying with traffic laws.

Proven technology with global track record

Baidu’s autonomous driving platform has already completed more than 150 million kilometres of safe driving worldwide and delivered over 10 million passenger trips, providing a mature and reliable foundation for large-scale deployment in Dubai.

Rapid rollout through global partnerships

The project is the result of close collaboration between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Baidu Apollo Go, following initial discussions at the World Governments Summit 2025.

The launch aligns with Dubai’s long-term vision to expand autonomous transport solutions, reduce reliance on private vehicles, enhance road safety and improve overall mobility efficiency across the city.






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Crime

WhatsApp refund message binding, events firm must pay Dh13,000, says Abu Dhabi court

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The Abu Dhabi Commercial Court of First Instance has ordered an events management company to refund Dh13,000 to a woman after ruling that the company had confirmed the refund in writing via phone messages but failed to repay the amount.

According to court records, the woman filed a lawsuit seeking recovery of the money she paid to organise a private event, along with legal interest, expedited enforcement, and compensation for court costs and legal fees.

Refund promised after event shortcomings

The claimant told the court that she had entered into a contract with the company to organise a private function. The agreement explicitly stated that payments would be refunded in the event of organisational shortcomings.

She said the company later acknowledged defects in the event arrangements and agreed to return the full amount, but failed to do so despite repeated follow-ups, according to reports.

WhatsApp messages used as evidence

To support her claim, the woman submitted:

  • A copy of the signed contract
  • A company-issued document
  • Bank transfer records
  • WhatsApp messages exchanged with the company’s representative

The messages included a written confirmation that the company would refund Dh13,000 within 14 days of the event date.

Company disputes claim

The company’s owner attended the hearing and requested the case be dismissed, arguing that the claimant lacked legal standing. Alternatively, he asked the court to reject the claim, stating the woman was not entitled to interest because she was not a trader.

Court rejects defence, orders payment with interest

In its ruling, the court found that the documents established a valid contractual relationship between both parties. It noted that the WhatsApp messages were sent from the same phone number listed in the contract, confirming they were issued by the company’s representative.

The court said there was no evidence the refund had been made, and ruled that the owner’s appearance did not negate the debt or its value.

On interest, the court held that the unpaid amount constituted a known and confirmed debt, and that delay in payment entitled the claimant to compensation.

The company was ordered to:

  • Pay Dh13,000
  • Pay delay interest at 3% per year from the date of filing the claim until full settlement (capped at the principal amount)
  • Cover court costs and legal fees

The ruling highlights that written commitments made via WhatsApp or phone messages can carry legal weight in UAE courts, particularly when linked to a valid contract.

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