Interview: Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa
How is policy being framed to ensure a balance between modernisation and sustainability?
MOHAMED ALI AL SHORAFA: Modernisation and sustainability are complementary concepts. As we strive to modernise, it is crucial to incorporate sustainable practices. Moreover, our efforts include the development and implementation of comprehensive policies and infrastructure to promote environmentally responsible transport alternatives. One example of this is the government’s investment to extend cycling infrastructure. In addition, Abu Dhabi will introduce light rail transit as a new mode of transport to achieve that goal.
The emirate’s Surface Transport Master Plan is driven by economic sustainability, standard of living and environmental goals. It seeks to facilitate a shift from private automobiles to an integrated multi-modal transport system that meets the city’s needs in the most sustainable manner. This includes policies to develop public options, manage demand for private automobiles and encourage the adoption of new technologies.
In what ways can technological innovation ensure sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility?
AL SHORAFA: Abu Dhabi is encouraging the introduction of electric- and hydrogen-powered vehicles as part of a wider move to become a net-zero economy by 2050. The strategy includes a number of measures, including expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure; implementing targeted government initiatives; accelerating the conversion of public sector fleets; supporting the deployment of light EVs in freight and private fleets; and enhancing awareness among the population about the importance of the shift.
Despite the growth in the number of EVs, there remains a lag in charging and parking facilities. To address this issue, stakeholders are collaborating to install charging stations and improve infrastructure. The private sector is the primary provider of charging stations and the DMT is working to integrate these facilities into public infrastructure. Additionally, taxis and scooter rentals are currently accessible via mobile devices, creating a seamless mobility-as-a-service experience.
By leveraging artificial intelligence, it will be possible to predict areas of high demand for taxis and enable the better allocation of resources. The Integrated Transport Centre has been monitoring public taxis and buses to gather data for route optimisation and real-time traffic analysis. This approach aims to maximise the efficiency of the existing transport infrastructure. Abu Dhabi is also developing a strategy for autonomous and connected vehicles, with various pilot tests ongoing.
Through what means can Abu Dhabi attract more private investment in the transport sector?
AL SHORAFA: Abu Dhabi’s overarching goal is to reduce its dependence on public funding and leverage the private sector for service delivery. Etihad Rail has attracted investment from the private sector for its network. In addition, we are exploring major road projects being procured through a public-private partnership (PPP) strategy and studying other projects to be delivered and operated by private sector partners. The government is exploring additional initiatives to engage the private sector to fund and operate various aspects of the transport system, including parking, tolls and buses, among others. Efforts initially focused on areas with high demand for bus networks in the emirate, inviting more private companies to operate.
Seven private companies currently account for a significant portion of Abu Dhabi’s taxi network, presenting smaller firms with considerable opportunities to provide technological solutions, such as ride-hailing apps. While PPPs are common in places that have limited financial resources for capital expenditure, this is not the case in Abu Dhabi. Nonetheless, such partnerships are being pursued to ensure efficiency and foster innovation when it comes to the development and management of the emirate’s transport infrastructure.
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