Transport

As it continues to develop and diversify its economy, transport is playing a central role in the long-term development of Abu Dhabi. Transport and storage contributed approximately Dh20.62bn ($5.6bn) to the emirate’s economy in 2011, or 2.6% of GDP. Aviation in particular is expanding rapidly; the UAE is set to invest $19bn on new aviation infrastructure as it positions itself as a regional business centre and attracts growing numbers of tourists. Upgraded maritime links will also boost Abu Dhabi’s commercial image and improve its global competitiveness. Lastly, key improvements to public transport look set to boost growth, while a comprehensive transport framework envisions the construction of a 17-km metro line by 2020. Not only does the growing population mean investment is required to keep Abu Dhabi City moving, but transport in the broader sense occupies a significant position in both the emirate’s economic diversification strategy. This chapter includes interviews with Abdulla Rashed Al Otaiba, Chairman, Department of Transport (DoT); and Ali Majed Al Mansoori, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC).