The UAE’s automotive and transport sector witnessed several notable developments during September 2026. These ranged from major road infrastructure projects and traffic improvements to autonomous mobility testing, driving licence services and road safety initiatives.
UAE Automotive Sector Updates From September 2026
A quick roundup of automotive updates from September 2026 highlights some of the key developments transforming Dubai’s roads and transport network.
RTA Completed Traffic Expansion in Al Mizhar 4
The Road and Transport Authority (RTA) completed a traffic expansion project in Al Mizhar 4, covering more than one kilometre from Tunis Street towards Amman Street. The project added a third lane to the existing two lanes, increasing road capacity by 50%. According to RTA, the improvement also reduced journey times by 25%, while benefiting traffic movement in the area.
RTA Launched Next-Generation Smart System for Driving Tests
RTA introduced the next generation of its Smart Test System to further enhance the driving licence testing services. The updated system uses smart technologies to support the evaluation of driving tests and improve the efficiency and accuracy of the testing process.
The initiative is part of the RTA’s wider effort to digitise driving licensing services and incorporate advanced technologies into testing procedures.
Dubai Mobility Labs Opened for Autonomous Vehicle Testing
RTA inaugurated Dubai Mobility Labs, a dedicated testing ground for autonomous and future mobility technologies. The facility provides 248 testing scenarios designed to evaluate different technologies and mobility systems under controlled conditions. It is one of the key automotive technology updates from last month.
New Truck Movement Restrictions Announced
RTA and Dubai Police introduced new truck movement restrictions, effective 1st October 2026. Key routes such as Al Qudra Street, Al Meydan Street, major crossings and the Airport Tunnel are subject to round-the-clock restrictions, while Sheikh Zayed Road and several residential areas have restrictions from 6 am to 10 pm.
Other urban roads are restricted during morning, afternoon and evening peak periods. RTA is also expanding truck rest facilities, with 14 of 16 rest stops completed and total parking capacity increased to 1,007 spaces for a safer and more organised truck movement.
Oud Maitha Road and Al Asayel Street Development Project Completed
RTA completed the Oud Maitha Road and Al Asayel Street Development Project during September 2026. The project included the construction and development of approximately 14 kilometres of roads.
The project increases Oud Metha Street’s capacity by 50%, from 10,400 to 15,600 vehicles per hour in both directions. It will also cut travel time from 20 minutes to five minutes, a 75% reduction.
RTA Launched Climate Change Adaptation Strategy for Transport
RTA launched its Climate Change Adaptation Strategy to strengthen the resilience of Dubai’s roads, transport networks and critical assets against current and future climate risks. The roadmap runs through 2030 and includes more than 35 projects across five areas, covering roads, rail, public transport, governance and administrative support.
Garmin Secured Naming Rights for ONPASSIVE Metro Station
RTA granted Garmin the naming rights for the metro station previously known as ONPASSIVE Metro Station. The agreement was signed through AMIT Retail LLC, Garmin’s distributor in the UAE, and covers a period of 10 years. The station will carry Garmin branding as part of RTA’s metro station naming rights programme.
RTA Launched Road Safety Awareness Campaign for the New School Year
RTA launched road safety awareness programmes for students, parents and drivers at the start of the 2026–2027 academic year. The campaign focuses on safer behaviour around school zones and highlights risks linked to speeding, double parking, unsafe overtaking and improper drop-off and pick-up practices.
RTA also urged motorists to remain cautious near pedestrian crossings and school buses, particularly during the first weeks of the academic year when traffic around schools is typically higher.
FAQs
What is Dubai Mobility Labs?
Dubai Mobility Labs is a dedicated facility for testing autonomous and future mobility technologies through 248 different scenarios.
What is the New Four Corridor project in Dubai?
The New Fourth Corridor is an 80 km road project linking Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. Its first phase will include 72 bridges, 17 tunnels and 45 drainage culverts, while supporting logistics traffic and key development areas.
How many driving licences did RTA issue in H1 2026?
RTA issued 119,188 driving licences during the first half of 2026, including 96,400 new licences and 27,788 exchanged licences.
These were some of the key UAE auto sector news from September 2026. Road infrastructure improvements, autonomous mobility developments and smarter transport services continued to shape the sector alongside ongoing demand for new and used cars for sale in the UAE.
For more updates on automotive developments and market trends, stay tuned to the UAE’s leading auto blog.
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