The Abu Dhabi Department of Transport (the DOT) has recently announced plans to press ahead with the procurement of the first phase of its metro and light rail plans in a clear sign the Government of Abu Dhabi is re-focussing on the implementation of strategically important projects.

Evolution of the Surface Transport Master Plan

In June 2009 the DOT published the Abu Dhabi Surface Transportation Master Plan (the STMP). The STMP was intended as a comprehensive plan for the implementation of surface transportation in Abu Dhabi, prepared in light of the vision of the Emirate's rulers set out in the Abu Dhabi Strategic Plan. One of the STMP's recommendations was the implementation of a high quality and high capacity metro and light rail system that would complement other modes of surface transportation being implemented in Abu Dhabi. The proposed implementation of that recommendation has evolved over the last four years and the DOT's recent announcement reflects changed economic circumstances and strategic priorities.