NYU Abu Dhabi researchers have demonstrated that artificial intelligence can independently rediscover key principles of particle physics, highlighting its potential to accelerate scientific discovery.

The study, published in the Journal of High Energy Physics (JHEP), shows that relatively simple AI models can identify patterns that took physicists decades to uncover during the development of the Standard Model — the theory describing the fundamental particles and forces of nature.

The research team — Aya Abdelhaq, Pellegrino Piantadosi and Fernando Quevedo — trained the AI system on historical experimental data from particle discoveries in the 1950s and 1960s. Without prior knowledge of the mathematical frameworks used by physicists, the system was able to identify underlying structures governing particle behaviour.

Among the findings, the AI rediscovered core symmetries such as baryon number, isospin and charm, as well as the Eightfold Way, which groups particles into structured families. It also reproduced Regge trajectories, which describe relationships between a particle’s mass and spin.

The results mirror decades of theoretical and experimental work that led to the development of the Standard Model, including breakthroughs such as the discovery of quarks — the fundamental building blocks of protons and neutrons.

“This study shows that AI can uncover deep physical laws directly from data, opening the door to discovering new particles and patterns that humans may have missed,” said Pellegrino Piantadosi, NYU Abu Dhabi postdoctoral associate and one of the paper’s authors.

The findings suggest that AI could play a growing role in scientific research by identifying hidden patterns and accelerating the discovery of new physical phenomena.

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has officially launched the commercial operations of autonomous taxis in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah, marking a major milestone in the emirate’s push toward smart mobility.

The initiative is being implemented in partnership with Apollo Go and WeRide (Nasdaq: WRD), both globally recognised leaders in autonomous driving technologies, a WAM report said.

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WeRide vehicles are now accessible to the public via the Uber app, while Tawasul Transport oversees fleet management and daily operations. Meanwhile, Apollo Go, a subsidiary of Baidu, is offering its services through the Apollo Go app, working alongside Dubai Taxi Company to support local operations.

Smart mobility vision in action

The rollout reflects Dubai’s broader strategy to adopt cutting-edge transport solutions and translate ambitious mobility goals into tangible, real-world initiatives.

Officials say the move strengthens Dubai’s position as a global hub for autonomous driving innovation, supported by advanced infrastructure, a clear strategic roadmap, and highly developed smart systems.

“This milestone reflects our commitment to shaping the future of mobility,” the RTA said in a statement, underscoring the importance of innovation in public transport.

The initiative also aligns with the Dubai Self-Driving Transport Strategy, which aims to transform a significant portion of journeys in the city into autonomous trips in the coming years.

Residents and visitors in Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah, two of Dubai’s most vibrant coastal neighbourhoods, can now book autonomous rides seamlessly through either the Uber app or the Apollo Go app.

The first phase of deployment includes 100 autonomous taxis integrated into Dubai’s transport network. Authorities have confirmed that the fleet will gradually expand in response to rising demand and continued technological advancements.

High safety standards and advanced technology

Prior to the launch, the autonomous vehicles underwent extensive operational trials across designated roads in Dubai. These tests were designed to evaluate system performance and ensure readiness under real traffic conditions, adhering to the highest safety standards.

The vehicles operate using an advanced ecosystem powered by artificial intelligence, high-definition mapping, and deep learning algorithms. This enables real-time decision-making and smooth navigation through complex urban environments.

Autonomous taxis are capable of interacting safely with dynamic traffic scenarios, including intersections, traffic signals, pedestrians, and surrounding vehicles — all while fully complying with road regulations.

According to officials, the system is backed by significant global experience, with fleets collectively logging over 150 million kilometres of safe driving and completing more than 10 million autonomous trips worldwide.

“This proven track record has been instrumental in developing scalable and reliable solutions for commercial deployment,” the statement added.

Fuel prices in the UAE are set to rise significantly in April 2026, with sharp increases across all petrol categories and diesel.

According to figures reported by Al Bayan, the revised rates will come into effect from April 1.

• Super 98 petrol will increase to Dhs3.39 per litre, up from Dhs2.59 in March.
• Special 95 petrol will rise to Dhs3.28 per litre, compared to Dhs2.48 previously.
• E-Plus 91 petrol will cost Dhs3.20 per litre, up from Dhs2.40.
• Diesel has recorded the steepest jump, climbing to Dhs4.69 per litre from Dhs2.72 in March.

The increases mark a sharp month-on-month rise in fuel costs, reflecting heightened pressures in global energy markets.

The UAE adjusts fuel prices monthly in line with international oil benchmarks, meaning domestic rates typically track global supply and demand dynamics.

Celestyal has confirmed the cancellation of all April 2026 departures as its ships wait to reposition to Athens, Greece.

The line’s fleet is currently positioned in the Arabian Gulf, with Celestyal Discovery in Dubai, UAE, and Celestyal Journey in Doha, Qatar. All guests and non-operational crew have been disembarked, while both vessels remain fully operational; their departure from the region will take place in accordance with safety guidance from the relevant authorities.

Due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East, all sailings scheduled for April 2026 have been cancelled.

The next planned departures are:

• Celestyal Discovery – May 1, 2026 (3-night Iconic Greek Islands)
• Celestyal Journey – May 2, 2026 (7-night Heavenly Greece, Italy and Croatia)

Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: “Our priority remains the safety and confidence of our guests, crew and partners. While we know this will be disappointing, taking this decision now provides greater clarity and flexibility for those affected.

“Our teams are working closely with guests and travel partners to support rebooking options and ensure a smooth transition, and we remain focused on returning to service in the Mediterranean as soon as it is safe to do so.”

All impacted guests have been offered a full refund or a future cruise credit, and will be supported by Celestyal’s teams, who will provide rebooking options and assistance.

The cruise line continues to monitor the situation closely and will resume movement of its vessels when conditions allow. Preparations are already under way for the return to service, with sailings set to resume from May 2026.

Authorities in Sharjah confirmed on Monday that a drone incident targeting a telecommunications facility in the emirate’s Central Region caused no casualties, as officials moved to contain the situation and urged the public to rely on verified information.

In a statement posted on X in Arabic by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau—translated into English—the authorities said the administrative building of Thuraya Telecommunications Company had been targeted by a drone originating from Iran.

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“Competent authorities in the Emirate of Sharjah are dealing today, Monday, March 30, with an incident resulting from the targeting of the administrative building of Thuraya Telecommunications Company in the Central Region with a drone coming from Iran, and no injuries were recorded,” the statement said.

Officials added that response teams are actively managing the situation and that further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

The statement also included a public advisory urging residents and businesses not to circulate unverified information. Authorities stressed the importance of relying on official channels for updates, amid heightened regional sensitivities and the potential for misinformation during fast-moving developments.