The UAE is preparing new mobility policies and smarter traffic systems to address rising private-vehicle ownership and heavy peak-hour congestion. Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Suhail Al Mazrouei announced the plans at the UAE Government Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi.
Al Mazrouei said vehicle numbers on UAE roads are growing by more than 8% each year, far above the global average of 2%. Rapid population and economic growth, along with overlapping school and work hours, are putting extra pressure on road networks. The problem is especially severe between Dubai and the Northern Emirates, where commuters can lose up to 460 hours a year—about 60 working days—stuck in traffic.
Addressing congestion is now a top national priority. The ministry will work with local authorities to update policies and regulations, manage vehicle growth, and encourage more use of public and shared transport. Improving public transport efficiency is key to reducing reliance on private cars.
The government is also enhancing traffic-management systems and using technology to improve journey reliability. A 24-hour integrated traffic-monitoring center analyzes congestion and proposes targeted solutions across the federal network.
Rail is a major part of the UAE’s future mobility strategy. Etihad Rail passenger services are set to launch by 2026 under the Dh50-billion UAE Railway Programme. The network will connect cities, reduce congestion, and meet passenger needs to international standards.
Officials say a mix of road expansion, public transport integration, updated policies, and smart mobility technologies will help the UAE keep pace with growing demand for transport as the population and economy continue to expand.