Travellers flying with Etihad Airways could be in for a fun-filled surprise the next time they fly from Abu Dhabi.

On Thursday, the national airline of the UAE unveiled the world’s first Warner Bros-branded aircraft, in partnership with Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi.

Sporting characters from Looney Tunes and Tom and Jerry on one side, the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner is emblazoned with DC superheroes on the other. A jet model was revealed at an event at the Yas Island attraction.

It will make its maiden voyage on Saturday, bound for London Heathrow. The aircraft will rotate service to other destinations including Dublin, Amsterdam, Vienna, Bangkok and Manilla, meaning not only UK-bound passengers can join the ride.

And that’s not all folks. Starting Saturday, Etihad will roll out new Warner Bros-themed gift packs featuring DC superheroes. Infants on board flights will be given a baby blanket depicting the likes of Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman, while bigger children can look forward to a backpack filled with a superhero cape, water bottle and activity kit. The new gift packs will be rolled out across all Etihad flights over the summer months.

Young travellers can also get inspired by Warner Bros before they fly at the newly opened lounge at Zayed International Airport. Dedicated to children, the space is packed with immersive activities, designed to give passengers a taste of what awaits at Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi.

“We are absolutely delighted to partner with Etihad Airways to bring the first-ever Warner Bros World-branded aircraft to fans,” said Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, group chief executive of Miral, which operates the park. “This collaboration not only expands the customer experience but also extends the thrill of Warner Bros World beyond our park’s walls, creating a super vacation with long-lasting unforgettable memories for passengers of all ages.”

Etihad first teamed up with the US entertainment company in 2022 to launch its Little VIP campaign, promoting family-friendly flights. Children flying with Etihad are currently offered Warner Bros-themed goodies such as Tweety blankets and Scooby-Doo backpacks.

“Building on the strong reputation we have built as a family-friendly airline, we’re thrilled to take our partnership with Warner Bros World to the next level,” said Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive at Etihad. “Our Looney Tunes and DC superhero-themed aircraft will take our brands to destinations worldwide promoting one of Abu Dhabi’s many attractions.”

Abu Dhabi is no stranger to the magic of Warner Bros. The UAE capital is the only destination in the world to have a Warner Bros-themed hotel. Located on Yas Island, the five-star WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton is filled with film memorabilia, screens cartoons by the swimming pool and allows guests to order room service that comes hand-delivered by Bugs Bunny.

The Sustainable City – Dubai, the first fully sustainable community in the region, has announced the launch of a delivery robot pilot in collaboration with Dubai Future Labs and Lyve Global. Starting this month, three autonomous on-demand delivery robots, developed by Dubai Future Labs, will begin their trial within The Sustainable City community. These robots will provide autonomous delivery services from all restaurants and shops within the plaza area to residents, utilising a smart interface powered by Lyve Global.

The unique design of The Sustainable City, which is fully pedestrianised and car-free within the residential clusters, makes the community future-ready to smoothly adopt autonomous solutions. The pilot of the last-mile delivery robots uses cutting-edge robotic technologies to enhance safety, cleanliness, and cost-efficiency while reducing traffic, carbon emissions, and waiting times.

Khalifa Al Qama, Director of Dubai Future Labs at Dubai Future Foundation, expressed that the project signifies a significant advancement in the continuous development of robotics technologies within the transportation, shipping, and logistics sectors in Dubai. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to leveraging technology to foster innovation and improve the overall quality of life.

He added, “These innovative robots have been specifically designed to ensure swift delivery of products within a remarkable timeframe of just under 30 minutes, while being fully equipped to navigate their surroundings safely and efficiently, with the capability to identify charging stations, eliminating the requirement for human intervention.”

Al Qama added, “The introduction of these delivery robots aligns perfectly with the objectives set forth by the “Dubai Robotics and Automation Program,” which was launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Chairmen of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation in September 2022.”

Fadi Alfaris, GM of NZE Solutions at SEE Holding, said, “We have successfully created synergy between sustainable communities and advanced technologies. The Sustainable City in Dubai tests the applicability of various ideas and integrated solutions. It is an ideal location for piloting autonomous delivery robots and their future deployment. Designed with car-free residential clusters, it provides a safe and conducive environment for testing and operating such advanced technologies. This setting ensures the safety of residents and offers a controlled environment to optimize the performance and efficiency of delivery robots.”

He added, “The Sustainable City in Dubai has been meticulously designed to be future-ready, capable of adopting the latest technologies and adapting to changing requirements. Operating as a living lab, the city continuously tests the latest solutions and innovations in sustainability to spearhead a net-zero emissions future.”

Hassan Hallas, Chief Executive Officer at Lyve Global, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Dubai Future Labs in deploying cutting-edge delivery robots in the Sustainable City, marking a significant step forward in our mission to revolutionize logistics. This initiative underscores our commitment to innovation and sustainability. Together, we are paving the way for a smarter, more connected future in the world of logistics.”

Developed locally by a team of roboticists and engineers from Dubai Future Labs, these delivery robots boast several advanced features, including a Fleet Management System equipped with real-time tracking, a backend order fulfillment and delivery operations system devised by Lyve Global and a Secured Delivery Compartment, accessible only by the customer, ensuring secure deliveries.

These autonomous delivery robots promise rapid delivery in under 30 minutes within the community. They will navigate sidewalks safely and independently, locating charging stations when needed and eliminating the need for human intervention.

This initiative aligns with Dubai’s wider mission to make 25% of trips autonomous by 2030 and contributes to the vision of positioning Dubai as the smartest city in the world.

Dubai, a city renowned for its futuristic skyline and innovative infrastructure, is once again at the forefront of urban development with a major upgrade to its road network. Designed to improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and accommodate the city’s rapid growth, these changes are set to redefine the commuting experience. Here are the four key changes every resident and visitor should know about:

1. Expansion of Key Highways

The first significant upgrade involves the expansion of Dubai’s key highways. Sheikh Zayed Road, the main artery that runs through the city, is undergoing a massive widening project. Additional lanes are being added to alleviate congestion during peak hours, promising smoother and faster commutes. The expansion extends to other critical routes such as Emirates Road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, ensuring that the city’s growing traffic demands are met with efficiency.

2. Introduction of Smart Traffic Management Systems

Dubai is embracing smart technology to revolutionise its traffic management. New intelligent traffic systems (ITS) are being installed across the city, featuring advanced sensors and cameras that monitor traffic conditions in real-time. These systems can automatically adjust traffic signals, provide live updates to drivers via digital sign boards, and even reroute traffic during emergencies. The result is a more responsive and adaptive traffic flow, reducing delays and improving overall road safety.

3. Enhanced Pedestrian and Cycling Infrastructure

Recognizing the importance of sustainable and healthy transportation options, Dubai is significantly enhancing its pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. New dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian paths are being constructed, particularly in busy urban areas and around popular attractions. These paths are designed to be safe and accessible, encouraging more residents and tourists to opt for walking or cycling as their preferred mode of transport. The initiative not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also helps to reduce the city’s carbon footprint.

4. Upgraded Public Transportation Hubs

The upgrade extends beyond roads to include public transportation hubs, integrating them seamlessly with the road network. Major metro stations, bus terminals, and tram stops are being revamped to offer better connectivity and convenience. New park-and-ride facilities are being introduced, making it easier for commuters to switch between driving and public transport. The improved hubs aim to make public transportation a more attractive option, thereby easing the load on the city’s roads.

These major upgrades to Dubai’s road infrastructure are a testament to the city’s commitment to innovation and excellence in urban planning. By expanding highways, implementing smart traffic systems, enhancing pedestrian and cycling paths, and upgrading public transport hubs, Dubai is paving the way for a more efficient, safe, and sustainable future. As these projects come to fruition, residents and visitors alike can look forward to a transformed commuting experience, befitting a city that continues to lead the way in modern urban living.