Abu Dhabi plans to be transport hub of future

Abu Dhabi : The city is planning massive infrastructure development covering aviation, maritime and public transport and highways over the next five years to cope with its rapid expansion, a top official said on Sunday.

The strategic plan for 2008-2012 of the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport aims to deliver an effective transport system that contributes to the economic growth, quality of life and environmental sustainability of the emirate.

This will be done through the integration of all modes of transport, and aligning it with future needs resulting from population growth and urban expansion, as set out in the Abu Dhabi Plan 2030, said Abdullah Rashid Al Otaiba, Chairman of the Department of Transport.

He did not give details or a time frame for the projects under this five-year plan but said it would be based on a comprehensive transport master plan to be announced next year.

"Current and future transport needs of the emirate will be identified, taking into account all relevant social and economic factors, including population and industrial growth, and an increase in travel and tourism figures.

"It will contain full estimates of capital and operational costs of all required transport projects and improvements until 2030," Al Otaiba said.

The Government plans to build a high-speed passenger and freight railway, a Metro, and a network of light rail lines and street cars.

It also plans to expand the emirate's road network with a number of highways, extend the city's grid road system and redevelop areas where streets have been poorly designed.

Al Otaiba said the government plans to develop Abu Dhabi International Airport into a major transport hub for the Middle East for both cargo and passengers, handling up to 50 million passengers a year and with airlines travelling to 70 international destinations under the Open Skies policy.

He also spoke of Khalifa Port at Taweelah, which will become the emirate's main shipping terminal, taking over from Port Zayed and handling up to 80 million tonnes by 2030.

New fleet

Al Otaiba said there will be a fleet of new buses to travel inside and between Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the western region.

"By the end of next month, 80 buses will be plying Abu Dhabi roads in the first phase of the project which will include a fleet of around 300 buses."

The transport department's strategy, Al Otaiba said, revolves around the integration of all types of transport, planning in accordance with government plans, health, safety and environment (HSE) management and clear communication with partners.

"Also, to invest in human resources and emiratisation through the training of UAE nationals in all sectors," he said.

Key points of vision

• Planning and performance management to ensure full integration of transport policies with the strategic planning and goals of the transport master plan.
• The expansion of the air transport network to and from Abu Dhabi through the implementation of the Open Skies policy to assist the growth of Abu Dhabi International Airport, Etihad Airways and other Abu Dhabi-based airlines.
• Strategic planning to build integrated seaports following the highest global standards. Khalifa Port being developed at Taweelah is one of the most important pillars of the maritime sector as it will be able to handle 80 million tonnes.
• The promotion of public transport by offering new solutions to connect Abu Dhabi and its suburbs to other parts of the emirate, utilising public transport modes such as railways and public buses.