Abu dhabi: The UAE Council for Infrastructure and Housing held its third regular meeting for 2025, chaired by Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure. The meeting focused on reviewing the progress of strategic initiatives and projects aimed at advancing the transport and urban planning sectors, as well as discussing future solutions to ease traffic congestion and enhance traffic flow across the country.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Council assessed national projects contributing to the reduction of traffic congestion and the improvement of road network efficiency. These efforts are part of ongoing initiatives to enhance the quality of life in cities. Discussions also included plans to develop smart mobility solutions and integrate transport systems, aligning with the government's vision to establish a sustainable and safe infrastructure that meets the needs of society and the national economy.
The Council examined the role of the national railway network in reducing road congestion. Since its full inauguration in 2023, the network has eliminated more than two million truck trips from roads, with this figure expected to increase by around seven million trips over the next five years. The operation of freight trains has also resulted in a 70 to 80 percent reduction in carbon emissions compared with road freight transport, supporting the UAE's climate neutrality goals by 2050.
Al Mazrouei highlighted the ongoing efforts to implement a national roadmap to integrate land and rail transport at both the federal and local levels. The aim is to reduce congestion, enhance safety, and improve the efficiency of logistics services. He emphasized that the convening of the UAE Council for Infrastructure and Housing reaffirms the UAE's commitment to adopting proactive, innovation- and data-driven solutions that strengthen the integration of the transport, housing, and urban planning sectors, in line with the 'We the UAE 2031' vision.
Al Mazrouei reiterated the Council's dedication to formulating practical policies that shape the future of infrastructure and urban transport in the country, aligning with national objectives and the vision of the UAE's leadership.