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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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Will UAE petrol prices rise in August? Here’s what we know

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UAE motorists won’t have long to wait to find out whether fuel prices will increase in August, with the Fuel Price Committee set to announce the new rates on Thursday, July 31.

The revised petrol and diesel prices will take effect from August 1.

Will fuel prices go up?

After a welcome price cut in July, the outlook for August is less certain.

Global oil prices initially fell below $70 a barrel earlier this month, raising hopes of another reduction. However, prices have since rebounded sharply, clouding the picture for motorists.

Brent crude briefly climbed above $100 a barrel, while US benchmark WTI rose to nearly us$92. Abu Dhabi’s Murban crude also surged past us$105, reflecting renewed strength in global energy markets.

Because UAE fuel prices are based on average international oil prices over the month, the late-July rally could limit or even reverse last month’s cuts.

Current UAE fuel prices

Motorists are currently paying:

  • Super 98: Dh3.40 per litre
  • Special 95: Dh3.29 per litre
  • E-Plus 91: Dh3.21 per litre
  • Diesel: Dh3.60 per litre

These rates were introduced in July after global oil prices eased earlier in the summer.

How UAE fuel prices are set

The UAE reviews petrol and diesel prices every month based on average global crude oil and refined fuel prices.

The August rates will be announced on July 31 through official government channels and will come into effect the following day.

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UAE traffic fine: Why leaving your engine idling can cost you Dh500

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Abu Dhabi Police are urging motorists to switch off their engines and take their keys whenever leaving their vehicles, warning that even brief stops can increase the risk of theft, fires and other safety hazards.

The advisory applies to drivers stopping at shops, petrol stations, ATMs or mosques, where some motorists continue to leave vehicles unattended with the engine running.

Safety risks

Police said leaving a running vehicle unattended creates an opportunity for theft and could also lead to mechanical problems or fire-related incidents.

Motorists were also reminded never to leave children, especially infants, inside a running vehicle, describing the practice as a serious threat to their safety.

Traffic laws

Abu Dhabi Police also highlighted that UAE traffic laws prohibit leaving an unattended vehicle with its engine running.

Drivers who fail to comply with traffic rules and official instructions can face a Dh500fine under the Federal Traffic Law.

Authorities urged motorists to adopt safe habits by turning off the engine, removing the key and locking the vehicle every time they step away, no matter how briefly.

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Dubai Airports unveils smart gate pre-check for passengers

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Passengers travelling through Dubai International Airport (DXB) can now check if they’re eligible to use Smart Gates before reaching passport control.

Dubai Airports has introduced the new Smart Gates Pre-Eligibility Verification service in partnership with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to make immigration faster and reduce waiting times.

How it works

Travellers can instantly verify their Smart Gate eligibility through the Pocket Flights platform or by scanning QR codes placed across airport terminals and boarding gates.

The service lets passengers know in advance whether they can use the automated passport gates, helping them avoid uncertainty at immigration.

Faster airport experience

Dubai Airports says the new feature is part of its ongoing efforts to streamline passenger journeys and improve the overall airport experience.

By allowing travellers to confirm eligibility before reaching passport control, the airport aims to speed up immigration processing and make travel through DXB more seamless for millions of passengers each year.

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