The developments, attractions and infrastructure projects driving the biggest UAE projects of 2026

It’s been a busy year for the UAE already. Across the country, major infrastructure projects, new attractions, smarter transport and ambitious developments are continuing to reshape how we live, work and travel. Some are already open, others are well underway, and plenty more are still taking shape. Here’s a look at the biggest UAE projects of 2026 making headlines this year.

Etihad Rail

The UAE has taken another major step towards nationwide rail travel, with the first Etihad Rail passenger service officially arriving in Abu Dhabi. Travelling from Fujairah via Sharjah and Dubai, the journey took just 105 minutes, giving passengers their first glimpse of what rail travel across the Emirates could soon look like. The milestone marks the beginning of a new era for public transport, with faster connections set to make travelling between the UAE’s major cities easier than ever.

Dubai Loop 

Dubai’s future transport network is taking shape with Dubai Loop, a new underground system designed to make getting around the city faster than ever. The first phase will link DIFC and Dubai Mall in around three minutes, compared to the current 20-minute journey by road. Eventually, the network will expand to 19 stations connecting key destinations including Dubai World Trade Centre, DIFC and Business Bay, with electric vehicles travelling through dedicated underground tunnels to help ease congestion across the city.

Ehsan Stations

Dubai is introducing a smarter way to care for the city’s stray animals with the launch of Ehsan Stations. Using AI technology, the smart feeding devices identify stray cats and other animals before dispensing food, helping provide reliable feeding while reducing random feeding in parks and public spaces. The first phase includes 12 stations across Dubai, with more expected to follow as the programme expands.

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Flying taxis

Joby Aircraft flying taxis in Dubai

Dubai’s flying taxis are edging closer to becoming a reality. Set to launch in 2026, the all-electric aircraft will connect Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Dubai International Airport and Palm Jumeirah, dramatically cutting journey times across the city. The first air taxi station has already been completed, marking a major milestone as Dubai moves towards a future of urban air mobility.

AI Smart Bus Station

Dubai is making public transport smarter with the world’s first AI Smart Bus Station at Mall of the Emirates. The new hub uses AI to monitor passenger flow, display how busy incoming buses are and provide real-time updates for buses, the Metro and taxis. Interactive kiosks, digital nol top-ups and a virtual assistant for journey planning and customer support are all designed to make getting around the city quicker and easier.

Driverless taxis

 

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Dubai has officially launched its first fleet of driverless taxis, marking another major step towards smarter transport. Available to book through the Uber and Apollo Go apps, the autonomous vehicles are currently operating across parts of Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim, with more areas set to follow. Powered by AI, advanced sensors and real-time mapping technology, the service is designed to make getting around the city safer, smarter and more efficient.

Al Mamzar Beach

 

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Al Mamzar Beach has officially reopened following a major redevelopment, bringing upgraded facilities, more space and plenty of new reasons to visit. Highlights include the world’s first 24/7 women-only beach with night swimming, a floating walkway across Al Mamzar Lagoon and a new waterfront dining destination. Designed with families and beachgoers in mind, the revamped beach is set to become one of Dubai’s top spots for a day by the sea.

Image: Dubai Media Office/What’s On Archive