Abu dhabi: Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, chaired the first meeting of the UAE Infrastructure and Housing Council for 2026 to review progress on strategic initiatives and projects aimed at advancing the nation's infrastructure ecosystem, enhancing transport efficiency, and strengthening integration between federal and local entities. The meeting is part of a government approach focused on developing solutions that enhance the readiness of the UAE's national infrastructure, keeping pace with urban and economic growth, and reinforcing the country's global competitiveness in infrastructure and transport indicators.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting reviewed key agenda items, including federal policy studies related to limiting vehicle growth, public transport solutions linking Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman, updates on the Fourth Federal Corridor, and ongoing efforts to increase the capacity of federal roads. The Council reviewed developments in the Fourth Federal Corridor Project, a flagship road project aimed at enhancing connectivity between the emirates and increasing road network capacity to ease congestion.
Technical updates included revised connection points and coordination with local authorities to finalize route alignments. The project involves constructing a 68-kilometre federal road with 10 major intersections, 6 to 8 lanes in each direction, and 4 flyovers, at an estimated cost of AED6 billion. This represents a significant investment in supporting future growth and improving connectivity.
In public transport, the Council reviewed a study to develop the transport system between Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman in response to growing commuting demand. The plan includes a network of 10 routes with Bus Rapid Transit and dedicated lanes, linking to major stations like the metro network.
The Council also reviewed the current operating landscape, including responses to recent weather conditions and mechanisms to address rainfall-related challenges, aiming to ensure traffic continuity and road user safety. Efforts to strengthen public transport by operating vital routes linking residential areas with business hubs are underway, expected to reduce private vehicle dependence and ease congestion.
The meeting also reviewed progress on linking Ajman to the Third and Fourth Federal Corridors, enhancing mobility between the emirates. Al Mazrouei affirmed that infrastructure development remains a cornerstone of the UAE's development journey and a key enabler of global competitiveness. He emphasized the importance of high-impact projects to enhance transport efficiency and support smart and sustainable mobility patterns.
Al Mazrouei stressed that advancing public transport remains a strategic priority, with efforts to reduce congestion, lower emissions, and improve resource efficiency through integrated transport modes. Strategic projects like the Fourth Federal Corridor reflect the UAE's commitment to developing scalable infrastructure that enhances connectivity, supports economic activity, and facilitates movement.