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Dubai RTA unveils self-driving electric pods to connect metro stations at World Government Summit 2026

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Getting around Dubai could soon become faster, cleaner and a lot smarter. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled plans for a new network of self-driving electric mobility pods designed to solve last-mile connectivity challenges across the city.

Revealed at the World Government Summit (WGS) 2026, the system, called Revolutionise Urban Mobility, features small, autonomous electric vehicles running on narrow, dedicated tracks, helping them avoid traffic while seamlessly linking metro stations with nearby destinations.

According to RTA, the project will initially be rolled out across four key locations:

  • Bluewaters Island (trial route)
  • Umm Suqeim
  • Al Quoz
  • Dubai Festival City

The Bluewaters Island route will serve as the pilot phase, stretching 2.8km from National Paints Metro Station to Bluewaters Island. Other planned routes include a 1.9km link between Mall of the Emirates Metro Station and Madinat Jumeirah, a 2.6km route from OnPassive Metro Station to Alserkal Avenue and Times Square Centre, and a 7km track at Dubai Festival City, which could later connect to the Dubai Metro Blue Line.

What are the urban mobility pods?

Each enclosed pod can carry four to six passengers, travel at speeds of up to 50km/h, and cover 250km on a single charge. The system is designed to move more than 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction, offering a high-capacity alternative to cars for short urban journeys.

Passenger-friendly features include ticket scanning points, help interfaces and an SOS button for emergencies, making the pods accessible and safe.

Developed by California-based company Glydways, the system uses advanced autonomous driving technology and compact guideways about the width of a bike lane. According to the company, this reduces capital costs by up to 90% and operational expenses by 70%, compared to traditional transport systems. The pods can be deployed along existing roads, above ground or underground, without the need for extensive infrastructure.

Glydways has been working with Dubai and Abu Dhabi since last year to explore the deployment of autonomous mass transit solutions. In November, the company signed an interim agreement with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office to assess wider implementation across the capital.

While no official launch timeline has been announced, the project signals Dubai’s continued push toward smart, sustainable and future-ready transport solutions.


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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Pakistani Embassy in UAE to close for Eid and Pakistan Day, here’s when services resume

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The Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi has announced a temporary closure in observance of Eid al-Fitr and Pakistan Day.

According to the embassy, operations will be suspended from Thursday, March 19, to Monday, March 23, 2026, allowing staff and the community to observe both important occasions.

Eid dates to be confirmed

Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on March 19 or March 20 in the UAE, depending on the official sighting of the crescent moon, which determines the start of the new month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

Plan ahead

Residents requiring consular services are advised to complete their transactions in advance to avoid inconvenience during the closure period.

The announcement ensures clarity for the Pakistani community in the UAE, helping residents plan ahead during the upcoming holiday period.


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UAE travel update: Step-by-step guide to rebook your flydubai flight amid schedule changes

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With flydubai gradually resuming operations after recent disruptions, many travellers may need to adjust their plans. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you rebook your flight or request a refund smoothly.

Who is eligible?

If you had a booking for travel between February 28 and March 31, you can:

  • Rebook your flight within 30 days of your original travel date
  • Cancel for a full refund or travel voucher
  • Make changes without any penalties

How to rebook your flight

1. Check your flight status first
Before making any changes, visit the airline’s official website (https://www.flydubai.com/) and check if your flight is:

  • Cancelled
  • Delayed
  • Still operating

2. Go to “manage booking”
Log in using your:

  • Booking reference number
  • Last name

This section lets you view and modify your booking

3. Choose your option
Depending on your situation, you can:

  • Select a new travel date (within 30 days)
  • Keep the same destination with no extra charges
  • Opt for a travel voucher or full refund if plans change

4. Confirm changes
Once you’ve selected your new flight:

  • Review updated details
  • Confirm the booking
  • Save your new itinerary

 Important tips

  • Do not go to the airport unless your flight is confirmed
  • Keep your contact details updated to receive alerts
  • Monitor your email/SMS for updates from flydubai

When to contact support

Reach out to flydubai if:

  • You didn’t receive a notification
  • You face issues rebooking online
  • Your itinerary involves multiple connections

The rebooking process is designed to be flexible and hassle-free, giving passengers the freedom to adjust plans without stress. Staying informed and acting early will help ensure a smooth travel experience.


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Eid in UAE: Philippine missions announce holiday closure, emergency services to remain available

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The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai have announced the temporary closure of their offices on Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, in observance of Eid Al Fitr.

Despite the holiday closure, both missions reassured the public that essential assistance services will remain available, particularly for urgent cases. The embassy confirmed that its Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) section will continue operating to support Filipinos in need during this period.

Emergency Support Remains Accessible

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and other nationals requiring immediate assistance can reach out through dedicated hotlines:

Abu Dhabi – Embassy Contacts:

  • ATN (OFWs): +971 56 270 9157
  • ATN (non-OFWs): +971 50 443 8003
  • Overseas Workers Welfare Administration: +971 54 557 2121
  • Contract Verification: +971 54 725 8482
  • Consular Concerns: +971 50 813 7836

Dubai – Consulate Contacts:

  • Consular Services (passport, notarial, civil registry): +971 4 220 7800
  • ATN (non-OFWs): +971 56 501 5756
  • Migrant Workers Office: +971 50 652 6626 / +971 56 353 5558

The consulate also confirmed that emergency assistance will remain accessible via designated hotlines throughout the closure.

Normal operations at both Philippine missions will resume on Monday, March 23, ensuring services return promptly after the break.

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