Dubai has officially begun hosting the World Governments Summit 2026, with global leaders, ministers, and decision-makers arriving in the city for the three-day event at Madinat Jumeirah.
This year’s edition is shaping up to be the largest in the summit’s history, with 35 heads of state and government confirmed, alongside thousands of international delegates. As the city welcomes high-level guests, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has rolled out a detailed World Governments Summit 2026 Dubai travel advisory to manage traffic and access around the venue.
The summit runs under the theme “Shaping Future Governments”, but for residents and visitors on the ground, the focus is firmly on how to get there without delays.
Access to Madinat Jumeirah Restricted During Summit Period
Authorities have confirmed that vehicle access to Madinat Jumeirah will be restricted throughout the summit days.
Only vehicles displaying a valid World Governments Summit access sticker will be allowed to enter the venue area during the following period:
- February 1 to February 5, 2026
- Daily from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
Any vehicle without the official sticker will be stopped and redirected to the Dubai Police Academy, where dedicated parking facilities have been set up.
From there, free shuttle buses will operate continuously, taking attendees directly to the summit venue. This approach is familiar to Dubai residents who attend major international events, particularly in busy areas like Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah.
RTA Encourages Use of Designated Parking and Shuttle Services
The RTA has strongly advised attendees not to drive directly to Madinat Jumeirah unless their vehicle is authorised.
Drivers are encouraged to:
- Park at the Dubai Police Academy
- Use the complimentary RTA shuttle buses
- Follow official parking and route guidance shared by the RTA
This system is designed to keep traffic moving on key roads and reduce congestion near residential areas. Similar measures have been used successfully during past global events hosted in Dubai.
Expect Traffic Delays During Peak Hours
With thousands of delegates arriving each day, traffic congestion is expected, particularly during morning arrivals and late afternoon departures.
Authorities are urging visitors to:
- Use public transport whenever possible
- Allow extra travel time if driving or using taxis
- Rely on the summit shuttle services during peak hours
Residents living around Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh, and Umm Suqeim may notice heavier traffic, additional security checks, and temporary road adjustments throughout the week.
Ways to Reach the Summit Venue in Dubai?
Dubai’s transport network is playing a central role in keeping the summit accessible.
By Public Transport
Several RTA bus routes operate close to Madinat Jumeirah. The nearest Dubai Metro station is Mall of the Emirates, where free shuttle buses run directly to the venue.
This option is expected to be one of the fastest during peak hours, especially for those coming from other parts of the city.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Dubai taxis, Uber, and Careem are widely available. Designated pick-up and drop-off zones have been arranged at the venue, though waiting times may increase during busy periods.
Visitors are advised to be patient and plan.
By Private or Rental Car
Visitors with a valid driving licence may rent vehicles in the UAE. Some nationalities require an International Driving Permit. Valet parking and designated areas are available only for eligible pass holders.
Important Information for Summit Attendees
Authorities have shared several reminders to ensure smooth entry:
- A valid World Governments Summit badge is required
- Badges can be collected from select hotels or on-site registration centres
- Food and beverage outlets are available across the venue
- Security screening is in place, so early arrival is recommended
Madinat Jumeirah is located around 18 kilometres from Downtown Dubai, roughly a 20-minute drive under normal traffic conditions, though travel times may increase during peak hours.
More Than a Summit: What WGS Stands For
The World Governments Summit is a global, non-profit platform focused on the future of governance. It brings together leaders from government, business, technology, and policy to exchange ideas and explore solutions to global challenges.
For Dubai, hosting the summit once again highlights its role as a city where global conversations take place, backed by strong infrastructure and event planning.
As the World Governments Summit 2026 gets underway, Dubai authorities are reminding attendees and residents to plan their journeys carefully. With restricted access, free shuttles, and expected traffic delays, following official guidance will help ensure a smoother experience for everyone.
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