Sectors W13-01 is located between Al Manhal Palace from the north, Hazza Bin Zayed Street to the south, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Makhtoum Street “Airport Road” from the east, and Al Karamah Street to the west managing263 parking spaces.

sector W12 is located between Corniche Street to the north and Zayed The First Street to the south, and Sultan bin Zayed Street to the east and 6th Street to the west, managing672 parking spaces.

Sector W38 is adjacent to the previous sector and is located between 5th Street to the north and Zayed The First street to the south, and 6th Street to the east, and Khalidiya Police Station to the west, managing 334 spaces.

Sector E22 is located between Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Street to the north and Al Jazira Street to the south, and Muroor Road to the east and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Makhtoum Street “Airport Road” to the west, managing 1761 parking spaces.

Parking management services will apply in these areas from 8AM to 10PM, Saturday to Thursday. The charges will be AED 3 per hour for premium parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and white) with a maximum permitted parking duration of 4 hours, and AED 2 per hour or AED 15 per day for standard parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and black). Parking is free on official holidays, however, cars parked illegally will be fined at any point in time. Mawaqif users are encouraged to observe timings, rules and regulations posted on the signs at each Mawaqif sector. The signs also display general information and instructions about Mawaqif.

The DoT also announces that Resident Parking Permits will be provided by Mawaqif Customer Service Centers to residents in the newly-assigned areas, allowing them to park in available standard parking spaces in the vicinity of their residence. This permit is available to owners or tenants and first of kin residing with them, such as mother, father, wife, husband, children, brothers and sisters. A maximum of two permits is allowed per household and each permit must be sector- and vehicle-specific.

To apply for a parking permit, residents must submit copies of their national ID, passport with valid residency visa; leasing contract or residency ownership proof, last water & electricity bill, municipal registered ternary contracts, proof of vehicle ownership and relationship of the vehicle owner, if different from the tenancy contract. Annual fees for the resident permits are AED 800 for the first vehicle and AED 1,200 for the second vehicle.

Customer service representatives are available to assist the public at the Department of Transport Customer Service Centers as per the following schedule:

All Customer Service Centers are closed on public holidays, except for the Customer Service Center located in the Central Market.

-Ends-

Parking management services will apply in these areas from 8AM to 10PM, Saturday to Thursday. The charges will be AED 3 per hour for premium parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and white) with a maximum permitted parking duration of 4 hours, and AED 2 per hour or AED 15 per day for standard parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and black). Parking is free on official holidays, however, cars parked illegally will be fined at any point in time. Mawaqif users are encouraged to observe timings, rules and regulations posted on the signs at each Mawaqif sector. The signs also display general information and instructions about Mawaqif. 

The DoT also announced that Resident Parking Permits will be provided by Mawaqif Customer Service Centers to residents in the newly-assigned areas, allowing them to park in available standard parking spaces in the vicinity of their residence. This permit is available to owners or tenants and first-of-kin residing with them, such as mother, father, wife, husband, children, brothers and sisters. A maximum of two permits is allowed per household and each permit is vehicle-specific and valid for specific sector(s) indicated on the permit.

To apply for a parking permit, residents must submit copies of their passport with valid residency visa; leasing contract or residency ownership proof, last water and electricity bill, tenancy contracts, proof of vehicle ownership and relationship of the vehicle owner, if different from the tenancy contract. Annual fees for the resident permits are AED 800 for the first vehicle and AED 1200 for the second vehicle.

Customer service representatives are available to assist the public at the Department of Transport Customer Service Centers as per the following schedule:

All Customer Service Centres are closed on public holidays, except for the Customer Service Centre located in the Central Market.

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For More information : ahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae  

The inaugurated DoT public bus maintenance and service center comes exclusively to service Al Ain’s 100 public transport Mercedes-Benz buses. The center features a state-of-the-artfacility with 40 team members and is open every day of the week and operates around-the-clock, 365 days-a-year to provide required servicing and maintenance of the DoT public bus fleet in Al Ain.

The DoT public buses in Al Ain operates 18-hours-a-day, and transports more than 25,000 passengers daily through Al Ain City areas and suburbs. With such high working demand and long operational hours, public buses need to be maintained on daily basis by the authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership. For the safety of the driver and passengers on the bus, the DoT ensure the buses are in excellent condition and should there be a request for recovery service, the maintenance and service team is accessible 24 hours a day with a reaction time of less than 15 minutes.

In this regard, Saeed Al Hameli, General Manager of the Bus Office at the DoT in Abu Dhabi said: “The safety of our passengers is our main priority at the Department of Transport. We aim to develop an efficient and well-integrated transport system in the Emirate, and in order for us to deliver our mission, we need to work with partners who possess extensive experience in the mobility sector such as Eastern Motors and Al Fahim Group. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Eastern Motors’ efforts and cooperation with the Department of Transport in a testimonial on public private partnership for the development of infrastructure in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi”.

“Tailored to cater to the Department of Transport exclusively, our five-year repair and maintenance agreement with the government organization guarantees the constant availability of staff at all times to provide round the clock service, keeping in line with the huge demand on service required for the public transport sector” stated Mr. Nassim Mourani, EM General Manager.

The opening ceremony was attended by Saeed Al Hameli, GM Bus Office, DoT; Saeed Al Fahim, Chairman of Alfahim Group; Rashed Abdul Jalil Al Fahim, MD of Alfahim Group;  Chris Preston, CEO of Alfahim Group’s Automotive Division; Nassim Mourani, GM of Eastern Motors as well as Mike Belk, President & CEO of Daimler Middle East & Levant. 

-Ends-

For More information : mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

Parking management services will apply in these areas from 8AM to 10PM, Saturday to Thursday. The charges will be AED 3 per hour for premium parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and white) with a maximum permitted parking duration of 4 hours, and AED 2 per hour or AED 15 per day for standard parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and black). Parking is free on official holidays, however, cars parked illegally will be fined at any point in time. Mawaqif users are encouraged to observe timings, rules and regulations posted on the signs at each Mawaqif sector. The signs also display general information and instructions about Mawaqif. 

The DoT also announced that Resident Parking Permits will be provided by Mawaqif Customer Service Centers to residents in the newly-assigned areas, allowing them to park in available standard parking spaces in the vicinity of their residence. This permit is available to owners or tenants and first-of-kin residing with them, such as mother, father, wife, husband, children, brothers and sisters. A maximum of two permits is allowed per household and each permit is vehicle-specific and valid for specific sector(s) indicated on the permit.

To apply for a parking permit, residents must submit copies of their passport with valid residency visa; leasing contract or residency ownership proof, last water and electricity bill, tenancy contracts, proof of vehicle ownership and relationship of the vehicle owner, if different from the tenancy contract. Annual fees for the resident permits are AED 800 for the first vehicle and AED 1200 for the second vehicle.

Customer service representatives are available to assist the public at the Department of Transport Customer Service Centers as per the following schedule:

All Customer Service Centers are closed on public holidays, except for the Customer Service Centre located in the Central Market.

 -Ends-

Notes

For More information : ahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

Parking management services will apply in these areas from 8AM to 10PM, Saturday to Thursday. The charges will be AED 3 per hour for premium parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and white) with a maximum permitted parking duration of 4 hours, and AED 2 per hour or AED 15 per day for standard parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and black). Parking is free on official holidays, however, cars parked illegally will be fined at any point in time. Mawaqif users are encouraged to observe timings, rules and regulations posted on the signs at each Mawaqif sector. The signs also display general information and instructions about Mawaqif. 

The DoT also announced that Resident Parking Permits will be provided by Mawaqif Customer Service Centers to residents in the newly-assigned areas, allowing them to park in available standard parking spaces in the vicinity of their residence. This permit is available to owners or tenants and first-of-kin residing with them, such as mother, father, wife, husband, children, brothers and sisters. A maximum of two permits is allowed per household and each permit is vehicle-specific and valid for specific sector(s) indicated on the permit.

To apply for a parking permit, residents must submit copies of their passport with valid residency visa; leasing contract or residency ownership proof, last water and electricity bill, tenancy contracts, proof of vehicle ownership and relationship of the vehicle owner, if different from the tenancy contract. Annual fees for the resident permits are AED 800 for the first vehicle and AED 1200 for the second vehicle.

Customer service representatives are available to assist the public at the Department of Transport Customer Service Centers as per the following schedule: 

All Customer Service Centers are closed on public holidays, except for the Customer Service Centre located in the Central Market.

-Ends-

Notes

 For More information : mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

Mawaqif currently operates seven customer care centers around Abu Dhabi to provide support and information needed to get parking permissions and answer all customers’ inquiries and receive suggestions according to the timetable below:

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

Sector E14 is located in the Tourist Club Area between Al Mina Road from the north, Zayed the Second Street to the south, and Al Ferdous Street from the west providing 1362 parking spaces. Sector E12 is located between Corniche Road to the north and Al Mina Road from the south, and Al Ferdous Street from the east and Salam Street to the west, providing 178 parking spaces.

Parking management servicing will apply in these areas from 8 AM to 10 PM, Saturday to Thursday. The charges will be AED 2 per hour or AED 15 per day for standard parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and black). Parking is free on official holidays, however, cars parked illegally will be fined at any point in time. Mawaqif users are encouraged to observe timings, rules and regulations posted on the signs at each Mawaqif sector. The signs also display general information and instructions about Mawaqif. 

The DoT also announces that Resident Parking Permits will be provided by Mawaqif Customer Service Centers to residents in the newly-assigned areas, allowing them to park in available standard parking spaces in the vicinity of their residence. This permit is available to owners or tenants and first of kin residing with them, such as mother, father, wife, husband, children, brothers and sisters. A maximum of two permits is allowed per household and each permit must be sector- and vehicle-specific.

To apply for a parking permit, residents must submit copies of their Identity cards, passports with valid residency visa; leasing contract or residency ownership proof, last water & electricity bill, Municipal registered ternary contracts, proof of vehicle ownership and relationship of the vehicle owner, if different from the tenancy contract. Annual fees for the resident permits are AED 800 for the first vehicle and AED 1,200 for the second vehicle.

Customer service representatives are available to assist the public at the Department of Transport Customer Service Centers as per the following schedule:

- Ends -

For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

Sector E22 is locatedin the Saada Area between the Civil Defense to the north and Al Jazira Street from the south, East Road (Muroor Road) from the east and Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoom (Airport Road) to the west, providing 482 parking spaces. Sector E23 & 24 is located between the Civil Defense from the north, Al Saada Street to the south, East Road (Muroor Road) from the east, and Airport Road to the west, providing 391 parking spaces. Sector W24 is located between the Airport Road from the east and Al Karama Street to the west, Al Saada Street from the south and the local street (19-01) to the north, providing 818 parking spaces.

Parking management servicing will apply in these areas from 8 AM to 10 PM, Saturday to Thursday. The charges will be AED 2 per hour or AED 15 per day for standard parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and black). Parking is free on official holidays, however, cars parked illegally will be fined at any point in time. Mawaqif users are encouraged to observe timings, rules and regulations posted on the signs at each Mawaqif sector. The signs also display general information and instructions about Mawaqif. 

The DoT also announces that Resident Parking Permits will be provided by Mawaqif Customer Service Centers to residents in the newly-assigned areas, allowing them to park in available standard parking spaces in the vicinity of their residence. This permit is available to owners or tenants and first of kin residing with them, such as mother, father, wife, husband, children, brothers and sisters. A maximum of two permits is allowed per household and each permit must be sector- and vehicle-specific.

To apply for a parking permit, residents must submit copies of their Identity cards, passports with valid residency visa; leasing contract or residency ownership proof, last water & electricity bill, Municipal registered ternary contracts, proof of vehicle ownership and relationship of the vehicle owner, if different from the tenancy contract. Annual fees for the resident permits are AED 800 for the first vehicle and AED 1,200 for the second vehicle.

Customer service representatives are available to assist the public at the Department of Transport Customer Service Centers as per the following schedule:

- Ends -

For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

The new paid timings throughout the Holy month will be spread out over two periods; from 9 am until 4 pm, and from 10:30 pm until 2:30 am. Mawaqif fees remain unchanged during the Holy month.

The move comes as part of DoT’s strategy to provide effective car parking solutions to the public in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, with the aim of facilitating their parking and travel needs during the Holy Month. 

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

Stage 1: Feasibility Study
Stage 2: Preliminary Design
Stage 3: Final Contract Documentation and Tender Award

Under the main stages of ‘Abu Dhabi Metro Study’, the main tasks will include: the determination of parameters of the metro line covering its alignment, track rail systems and station locations; the selection of the optimal project urban insertion; the provision of capital, operation and maintenance cost estimates of the metro line; the project implementation schedule; the revision of alternative options for design, construction, procurement and operations; the specification of optimal functional / output characteristics of the project to maximize its patronage and financial viability.
 
The ‘Abu Dhabi Metro Study’ will aim to carry out planning of metro operations to the level of detail necessary to specify train technologies, track geometry, train sizes, numbers of train car sets, depot and maintenance facilities, power, station configurations, train service frequencies, fare collection and ticketing systems. As well as to carry out operational planning for feeder services to the level of detail needed to specify vehicle technologies and geometries, interchange facilities / arrangements, coordinated service schedules, integrated fare collection, ticketing and information systems and all other features required as inputs to preliminary designs for infrastructure, rolling stock, and services.
 
Finally, the Study will focus on the development of a detailed implementation schedule for the project based on the technical, economic and updated financial feasibility studies.
 
Background and Media Notes:
 
The Department of Transport (“DoT”) was established pursuant to Law No. 4 of year 2006 to cover the entire value chain and ensure fully coordinated planning in all aspects of transport policy and development in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in cooperation with all relevant local, regional and international stakeholders and partners. 

- Ends -

Notes

For More information : mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

According to the action plan, developed by the Public Bus Office at the DoT, a special public bus schedule for Ramadan has been set for the operation of 9 routes within Abu Dhabi City and the surrounding suburbs going to and from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, as follows:

- 3 routes from Abu Dhabi City starting from 5:00PM to 10:00PM:

• Route No. 32 (Marina - Maqta)
• Route No. 44 (Municipality - Umm Al Nar)
• Route No. 54 (Tourist Club Area – Umm Al Nar)

- 6 routes from the suburbs of Abu Dhabi City starting from 5:00PM to 10:00PM:

• Route No. 202 (Al Shahama - Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque)
• Route No. 115 (Workers Village, Mussafah – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque)
• Route No. 117 (Industrial City of Abu Dhabi – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque)
• Route No. 102 (Mussafah station – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque)
• Route No. 400 (Baniyas west bus station – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque)
• Route No. 500 (Al Mafraq Workers' City – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque)

- In addition to the free of charge 'Park and Ride’ service between Zayed Sports City and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Saeed Mohammed Fadel Al-Hameli, General Manager of the Public Bus Office at DoT, said: “I would like to wish UAE nationals and residents, as well as our wise leadership the very best for Ramadan. May this holy month bring utmost peace and prosperity to all.”

“In accordance with the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan, we have developed a clear operational schedule, in line with the timings and commuters' needs during Ramadan,from different areas of the city to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The free of charge ‘Park and Ride’ service will be available to minimize traffic congestion and limit the number of illegally parked vehicles in the area surrounding the mosque and on nearby roads,” Al-Hameli added.

“Furthermore and based on the Public request, DoT has decided to extend this free service until “Qiam” (praying at night), during the last 10 days of Ramadan.”

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

The announcement was made during a press conference by Mr. Mohamed Nasser Al Otaiba, General Manager of Mawaqif at the Department of Transport, and in the presence of media representatives.

During the conference, the DoT unveiled the latest updates relating to Mawaqif, including the extension of paid parking hours from 8:00 AM until 12:00 midnight from Saturday until Thursday immediately after Eid Al Fitr holidays.

Mawaqif will also be providing residents with a one month grace period from the date of expiry of their parking permits to renew them easily, in addition to the sms send by Mawaqif to remind residents with their expiry dates and inviting them to renew their permits.” 

Mr. Mohamed Nasser Al Otaiba, General Manager of Mawaqif at the Department of Transport said: “The new timing will be implemented immediately after Eid Al Fitr holidays. Furthermore, all parking will be free starting from the 29^th of Ramadan and until the 3^rd day of Eid Al Fitr.”

“Since the launch of Mawaqif and within a short period, we achieved a noticeable improvement in the usage of parking spaces, positively impacted the lives of visitors and residents in Abu Dhabi. Also, we received positive feedback in areas where Mawaqif has been implemented,” Al Otaiba explained.

He added “extending the paid parking hours until midnight will result in more efficient utilization of parking space, so it can be benefit a bigger number of Mawaqif users. This would also support commercial activities in implemented areas, while enabling residents and visitors to find dedicated parking spaces after 9:00 PM”.

The DoT also recently announced Mawaqif Ramadan Timings; over two periods: from 9 AM until 4 PM, and from 10:30 PM until 2:30 AM.

During the month of Ramadan, the Mawaqif customer service centers will be open from 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM from Saturday to Thursday, with the exception of the Central Market Customer Care Center, opening on Fridays, from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM.

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

The Department of Transport through this project aims to alleviate traffic congestion on the current main road connecting Abu Dhabi to Dubai (E11), and provide a new strategic link between the two most populated emirates in the country, as well as create new entrances to the city of Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi International Airport, and Yas and Saadiyat Islands.

The new Abu Dhabi – Dubai main road (E311) is one of the biggest infrastructure projects that the Department of Transport is working on as part of its Surface Transport Master Plan (STMP). 

The new Abu Dhabi – Dubai main road will serve the Khalifa Port Area and the South Shamkha, Wathba and Baniyas residential areas and labour camps, and will accommodate light vehicles as well as trucks. The new main road will also cater for the new Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD) (A) and (B) in Abu Dhabi at Taweelah as the road is being designed to accommodate up to 7,000 vehiclesper hour. In addition, the new main road will also facilitate connectivity to Al Ain as its link up with E22 (Abu Dhabi – Al Ain main road) and the rest of the main roads network in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The new main road (E311) will consist of 62 Kilometres of dual carriageway starting at the end of Emirates Road in Seih Shuoaib through Al Maha Forest and Khalifa Port Industrial Zone (B) and will join up at the Sweihan Road (E20) interchange.

The construction of the new main road will be executed through two tenders. The first tender is to construct 34 Kilometres with three interchanges; the second tender will focus on the construction of 28 Kilometres and will also include three new interchanges and the modification of one existing interchange.

In addition, the construction of the main road will include a number of protective structures for service lines, especially for gas pipelines which intersect with the route of the new main road.

It is expected that execution of each contract will take 30 months to be completed, from the date of the beginning of construction to the completion of the entire project by the end of 2014.

Executing the project through two parallel contracts will ensure competitive pricing, reduce project risks and will expedite the completion and delivery of the project through the simultaneous construction work by two contractors.

The new Abu Dhabi – Dubai main road is the result of detailed studies and surveys on daily traffic volumes between Abu Dhabi – Dubai. It will serve numerous local commuters along the way and provide an alternative main road to the current Abu Dhabi and Dubai main road (E11).

Eight hundred 30-meters-high light columns at 300 meters intervals will light the new main road. It will provide ample lighting at night and will follow best sustainable standards which aims to reduce energy consumption, be environmentally friendly and reduce operational cost. Sustainability efforts will be achieved by reducing power demand in the off peak periods.

For optimal road safety, the new Abu Dhabi – Dubai main road will feature six laybys,     three in each direction of the main road at 20 Kilometer intervals. E311 main road shoulders will be three meters wide, each designed for emergency use. The 20 meter wide median is designed for a staged upgrade and future expansion through the addition of two lanes in each direction, if needed.

The laybys are designed for emergency use by light vehicles and heavy trucks and also serve as a patrol point for police, ambulance, and emergency vehicles. In addition, the main road will come with five U-turn facilities especially designed for emergency by official vehicles only.

Adding to road safety features, the new main road will come with a rainwater drainage system and a fence on both sides of the main road to protect from crossing herds.

The median will be equipped with a guard rail in each direction to prevent median crossings and contain vehicles to the carriageway. These barriers will also protect streetlighting and other infrastructure in the median.

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

The new center is located at the intersection of Al Muroor Road and Al Falah Street, and opens for business from 7AM to 9PM.

Residents in the areas where Mawaqif is implemented can apply for resident permits from the Customer Care Centers. Residential permits allow motorists to park in any available Standard Parking bay in the area where they reside. By clearly displaying the permit on the vehicle dashboard, they will be exempt from paying hourly or daily tariffs at the parking meters. This permit is available to owners or tenants and their first of kin residing with them, such as mothers, fathers, spouses and children with a maximum of two permits per household. Each permit is sector and vehicle specific.

To apply for a parking permit, residents must submit copies of their national ID, passport with valid residency visa; leasing contract or residency ownership proof, last water & electricity bill, Municipal registered ternary contracts, proof of vehicle ownership and relationship of the vehicle owner, ifdifferent from the tenancy contract. Annual fees for the resident permits are AED 800 for the first vehicle and AED 1,200 for the second vehicle.

Customer service representatives are available to assist the public at the Department of Transport Customer Service centers as per the following schedule:

All Customer Service Centers are closed on public holidays, except for the Customer Service Centers located  in the Central Market. 

For more information or inquiries, feel free to contact Mawaqif call center on 800-3009.

-Ends-

For More information : mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

Sector E1 is located in the Central Market Area between Corniche Road from the north, Khalifa Bin Zayed  Street to the south, Airport Road from the west, and Liwa Street from the east providing 961 parking spaces. Sector E2 is located between Khalifa Bin Zayed Street to the north and Hamdan Street from the south, Airport Road to the west, and Liwa Street from the east, providing 336 parking spaces.

Parking management services will apply in these areas during Ramadan timings; over two periods: from 9 AM until 4 PM, and from 10:30 PM until 2:30 AM and after Eid-Al-Fitr from 8 AM to 12 Midnight, Saturday to Thursday. The charges will be AED 2 per hour or AED 15 per day for standard parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and black). Parking is free on official holidays, however, cars parked illegally will be fined at any point in time.

Mr. Mohamed Nasser Al Otaiba, General Manager of Mawaqif at the Department of Transport said: “It is our aim at the DoT – through mawaqif – to resolve parking issues in Abu Dhabi, especially in congested and commercial areas like the Central Market Area, whose residents called upon us to implement the Mawaqif Parking management program there to curb residents from other areas from parking in these two busy sectors, E1 and E2.”

“In line with the DoT’s efforts to constantly facilitate parking services, we have also announced that Resident Parking Permits will be provided free-of-charge for the coming 6 month in the Central Market areas’ sectors E1 and E2, where Mawaqif is implemented by visiting and of Mawaqif Customer Service Centers,” Al Otaiba added.

To apply for a parking permit, residents must submit copies of their Identity cards, passports with valid residency visa; leasing contract or residency ownership proof, last water & electricity bill, tenancy contracts, proof of vehicle ownership and relationship of the vehicle owner, if different from the tenancy contract.

DoT calls on the Central Market area residents and visitors to observe timings, rules and regulations posted on the signs at each Mawaqif sector. The signs also display general information and instructions about Mawaqif. 

Customer service representatives are available to assist the public at the Department of Transport Customer Service Centers as per the following schedule:

All Customer Service Centres are closed on public holidays, except for the Customer Service Centres located  in the Central Market. For more information, please contact us on 800-3009.

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Sector W15-02 is located around the Eid Prayer Grounds Area between Delma Street from the north, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street to the south, Al Karma Street to the west, and Airport Road from the east, providing 1231 parking spaces.

Parking management services will apply in these areas from 8 AM to Midnight, Saturday to Thursday. The charges will be AED 2 per hour or AED 15 per day for standard parking (curbstones painted in turquoise and black). Parking is free on official holidays, however, cars parked illegally will be fined at any point in time. Mawaqif users are encouraged to observe timings, rules and regulations posted on the signs at each Mawaqif sector. The signs also display general information and instructions about Mawaqif. The DoT calls on the public to avoid parking their cars in parking slots designated for residents. 

The DoT also announces that Resident Parking Permits will be provided by Mawaqif Customer Service Centers to residents in the newly-assigned areas, allowing residents to park in available standard parking spaces in the vicinity of their residence. This permit is available to owners or tenants and first of kin residing with them, such as mother, father, wife, husband, children, brothers and sisters. A maximum of two permits is allowed per household and each permit must be sector- and vehicle-specific.

To apply for a parking permit, residents must submit copies of their identity cards, passports with valid residency visa; tenancy contract or ownership proof, last water & electricity bill, Municipal registered tenancy contracts, proof of vehicle ownership and relationship of the vehicle owner, if different from the tenancy contract. Annual fees for the resident permits are AED 800 for the first vehicle and AED 1,200 for the second vehicle.

Customer service representatives are available to assist the public at the Department of Transport Customer Service Centers as per the following schedule:

All Customer Service Centres are closed on public holidays, except for the Customer Service Centre located in the Central Market.

For more information, please contact Mawaqif Call Center on 800-3009.

-Ends-

• Public transport tariff within Abu Dhabi city: 2 dirhams
• Public transport tariff to the suburbs: starting from 2 dirhams in addition to 5 fils per km, with 5 dirhams being the average.
• Inter-city public transport tariff: starting from 10 dirhams in addition to 10 fils per km with 25 dirhams being the average.

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announced today the partial opening of a newly constructed tunnel located at the intersection of Bainuna Street no.34 and Sultan bin Zayed Street no.32. The addition of a tunnel in this area is aimed to improve and upgrade the overall infrastructure and traffic flow on Bainunah Street. In addition, the newly built tunnel will accommodate greater traffic capacity serving Hazza bin Zayed Street and Sultan bin Zayed Street.

The DoT commenced work on the tunnel project in 2011 to improve and support the traffic flow and infrastructure in Al Ras Al Akhdar and Al Bateen areas. This project is in line with the DoT’s overall strategy to enhance and develop a world class transport infrastructure in Emirate of Abu Dhabi.  

The new tunnel extends to a full 750 meters in length and is 10.5 meters in width and 6.5 meters in height consisting of two lanes leading to Sultan bin Zayed Street as well as a hard shoulder for vehicle emergencies as well as police, ambulance and fire trucks use, and a pedestrian side-walk for emergencies only.

The state-of-the-art tunnel was designed following the highest international standards for economic efficiency and environmental protection. The tunnel features a control centre offering the latest Intelligent Transport system (ITS) that manages traffic flow as well as Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for the control of an advanced fire fighting system, Rain water drainage system and ventilation system. As for the tunnel lighting, it adheres to the highest levels of sustainability and can be automatically adjusted according to the natural lighting intensity throughout the time of the day.

A spokesperson from DoT said: “The opening of this tunnel is an accomplishment in developing the infrastructure in Abu Dhabi as it will improve and compliment the overall public transport network in Al Bateen area to meet the ever-increasing urban development in Abu Dhabi city”.

“We are working hard to finalize and deliver the project by the end of the year” the spokesperson added. 

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announced today the launch of a project to unify road engineering standards by adopting the best international practices for design, construction, operation, maintenance and management, of roads and bridges projects in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi as part of its efforts to improve safety and maximize the capacity of the Emirate road network.

“Unifying and Standardizing of Road Engineering Practices” project is carried out by the DoT in coordination with several strategic partners from the government of Abu Dhabi such as the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC), the Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA), Abu Dhabi Municipality (ADM), Al Ain Municipality (AM) and the Western Region Municipality (WRM). In addition, three global consulting firms were assigned to prepare the new standards, which are later reviewed and verified by DoT officials and experts.

The project, which is expected to be finalised in Q3 2013, consists of 34 documents covering all aspects of road engineering and related infrastructures (bridges, tunnels), such as geometry, materials, traffic, construction and maintenance standards, environmental, health and safety issues, etc.

The new standards are going to be implemented gradually and in phases starting Q3, 2013 on new projects and on the on-going ones (if the contract conditions allows,) while delivered projects will have abide by the standards concerning maintenance and operations.

This project which is a DoT initiative is intended to support the rapid development of the road network in Abu Dhabi, improve safety and contribute to a sustainable environment.

The Main Roads Division of the Department of Transport is responsible for planning, development, management, operation and maintenance of the Road network, in addition to its policy formulation and regulatory role for the road sector.

DoT Invests 120 Million Dirham in Parking Project

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announced today that construction commenced on an underground three-storey parking facility, which will have the capacity to accommodate over 800 vehicles and cover a total area of 8,300 square meters. This project comes as part of the DoT’s strategy to provide an effective system for parking management and upgrade the overall transport infrastructure in Abu Dhabi according to the highest international standards.

The parking facility is located in Sector 11 East between Al Falah Street and Baniyas Street nearby the Ministry of Finance, Abu Dhabi Tawteen Council and The Department of Economic Development (DED). The new parking structure will provide additional parking for the needs of the Capital’s growing population and urban expansion.

The new parking project consists of a three multi-storey underground parking facility in addition to surface parking. Through this project, the DoT aims to increase the capacity and number of parking spaces in Abu Dhabi, while providing multiple services within the facility in accordance with the highest standards in safety and comfort for the public. The parking facility will feature three elevators equipped with a high-tech security system, CCTV and round-the-clock security surveillance, while “MAWAQiF” inspectors will supervise the parking area. The facility will also feature a dedicated parking section next to the entrance of the building to accommodate people with special needs. The parking has been designed in a rectangular shape to facilitate movement into and out of the building. In addition, the facility will offer efficiency in energy consumption through its use of environment friendly technologies.

The search for a parking space can take a lot of time and effort in such a large facility; to simplify this process, the “Parking Guide System” is utilized. This system highlights vacant parking spaces through the use of green lights, and indicates occupied spaces with red lights.

The facility will also feature recreational elements, including a park for families with a children's play area and a basketball court as part of the surface parking. Future plans also may include a mosque.

The project is set to be completed by Q3 of 2014.

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announced today its support by providing 80 free shuttle bus services to the visitors and exhibitors of the “International Defence Exhibition and Conference IDEX 2013" that will take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from 17 to 21 February. This initiative comes within the role played by DoT to contribute to the success of major local and international events hosted in Abu Dhabi as a leading global destination for organizing and managing big events.

DoT will provide free shuttle bus services throughout all event days from 7am to 7pm for visitors and exhibitors of this international exhibition and conference from Abu Dhabi Island and its suburbs to Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The services will include the following routes: service (1 and 2) Tourist Club Area, service (3 and 4) Central Business District "Downtown", service (5) Khalidiya area, service (6) Al Manhal, service (7) Yas Island and Saadiyat Island and service (8) Al Maqta. The frequency of this service is available every 20 minutes. 

In addition, DoT will provided “Park and Ride” service from 7am to 8pm located at the Zayed Sports City Park with a capacity of 3,000 parking facilities. The frequency of this service will be available every 5 minutes. 

DoT has dedicated 130 employees consisting of drivers and supervisors to oversee and assist the public using the free bus shuttle services. Moreover a schedule stating the date and time of the free shuttle services will be available at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre at “Gate A”. Furthermore, DoT will provide the Hotels located along the 8 routes with leaflets to guide their guests on how to use the DoT’s free shuttle bus services.

Mr. Saeed Mohammed Fadel Al Hameli, General Manager of the Bus Office and Chairman of Events Committee at the DoT in Abu Dhabi, said: “Providing free public transport for more than 40 thousand visitors, exhibitors and participants to-and-from this major event which contribute significantly in reducing congestion and enhancing mobility to the event and working collaboratively with DoT’s strategic partners to position Abu Dhabi as a global pioneer and increasing its competitiveness to result in the rapid growth of Abu Dhabi’s economy and tourism sector.”

 Mr. Al Hameli added: “DoT seeks to apply best global practices and continuously strives to upgrade and enhance the public transportation network in order to provide the public with safe, comfortable, sustainable and reliable transport services, while protecting the environment.

Abu Dhabi in Tuesday, February 19, 2013 - The Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi (DoT) in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Police announced today the launch of the five week long “Truck Enforcement Committee” Programme, in order to gather data from more than 500 trucks in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The objective is to ensure a workable and detailed database to achieve successful studies relating to the programme.

This initiative is designed to increase safety levels and find necessary traffic solutions in Abu Dhabi, in addition to reducing reckless driving habits and serious accidents caused by trucks through specialist technicians to examine thoroughly and accurately the brake, oil leakage, tires, lighting of the trucks and the weight of the trucks in addition to questionnaire in various languages aimed at trucks and articulated truck drivers.

The Truck Enforcement Committee Programme will be implemented to regulate the traffic flow of trucks in Trucks Control Stations that cover strategic locations, which include Musaffah, one of the primary industrial areas of Abu Dhabi, Khatam Al Shukla border exit in Al Ain and the Al Ghuwaifat exit in the Western Region, the Dynamic exit which connects the Emirate of Abu Dhabi with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
 
This programme will contain accurate and important data such as violations, like trucks weights, speed limits, damaged tires, In addition to drivers’ identity documents, full technical inspections and the mechanical condition of trucks.
Both team will also analyze the data and deliver extensive suggestions to implement innovative traffic solutions that will limit violations that result in accidents. After the completion of this stage the team will provide a comprehensive report containing proposals and recommendations for traffic solutions that can be applied to "Joint Safety and Traffic Solutions Committee", a group comprising the Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi; Abu Dhabi Police; Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) and the Municipality of Abu Dhabi (ADM), dealing with all aspects of road safety and commuters in Abu Dhabi.
 
This programme will support surface transport, through improving traffic safety; maintaining the infrastructure of roads and bridges; organizing of surface transport and present integrated traffic solutions to enhance overall road safety.

It is noteworthy that this comes in a time when the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is witnessing rapid growth across various key economic sectors, which lead to an unprecedented increase in traffic throughout the Emirate. This requires the need to take necessary measures to ensure smooth traffic flow and improved traffic safety.

The Department of Transport has allocated five hundred (500) parking spaces with a total area of 19,620 square meter provided by the DoT, marked with “Mawaqif” curbstones painted in turquoise, in addition to signage to direct the employees, to large organizations based in Abu Dhabi’s Central Business District (CBD). Through this service, DoT aims to transport a large number of employees to their work-place using transport provided by each organization such as First Gulf Bank. Moreover, DoT will provide these companies' employees with permits to enter and park their vehicles, where “Mawaqif” inspectors will manage and facilitate traffic. The service will run at 7:00am to 7:00pm from Sunday through Thursday. This service will save twenty minutes to half an hour from staff time to reach their destination.

Based on the demand, DoT will study the provision of the “Park and Ride” service for employees in different areas within the city of Abu Dhabi and its suburbs.

To enhance coordination and integration with government and private sectors, all organizations can sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Transport for the “Park and Ride” service to reduce the use of private cars and encourage the public to use public transportation.

DoT is considering the public transport needs in Abu Dhabi and seeks to address related issues through sustainable public transport. Moreover, DoT is developing strategies and policies for transport management to make Abu Dhabi a leading city with world-class infrastructure and transportation systems.

• Sector E4-01, located between East Street, Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum (Known as Airport Street), Al Falah Street and Zayed the Second Street.
• Sector E4-02 is between East Street, Bani Yas Street (known as Al Najda), Al Falah Street and Zayed the Second Street.
• Sector W38, located between Fifth Street, Zayed the First, Sixth Street and Al Khalidiya Police Station.
• Sector W12, located between Corniche Street, Zayed the First Street, Sultan Bin Zayed Street and Sixth Street West.
• Sector W9, located between Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Zayed the First Street, King Khalid Bin Abdul Aziz Street and Al Falah Street.
• Sector W4, located at Khalidiya Region, between Zayed the First Street, Al Manahal Street, Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street and King Khaled Bin Abdel Aziz Street.
• Sector E12, located between Corniche Street, Mina Road, Al- Ferdous Street and Sheikh Zayed Street (Known as Al-Salam Street).
• Sector W15-02, located around the Eid Prayer Grounds area between Delma Street, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street, Al Karama Street and Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
• Sector E25, located between Delma Street, Mohamed Bin Khalifa Street, Al Nahyan Military Camp and Fourth Street (Known as Al Muroor).
• Sectors W13-01, located between Al Manhal Palace, Hazza Bin Zayed Street, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Makhtoum Street and Al Karama Street.
• Sectors E18, located between Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Sheikh Zayed Street, Hazza Bin Zayed Street, and Al Falah Street.

It is worth mentioning that upgrading the parking meters requires plenty of time and effort in order to be compatible with the new and old coins in nearly 50 sectors in Abu Dhabi. Each parking meter has to be re-programed to recognize the weight, size and category of each coin before accepting or rejecting it.

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announced today the introduction of “MAWAQIF” credit card payment options such as Visa and MasterCard at over 2,000 payment machines. The new service is aimed at offering multiple payment options to motorists.

As a result of the new multiple payment methods, motorists can now use their credit cards to pay MAWAQIF. They can now insert their credit cards in the machines and choose the tariff time.

The new credit card facility is one of several payment methods introduced by “MAWAQIF”, including prepaid cards, mobile fees payment (SMS) and coins.

Parking management services will apply from 8 AM to 12 PM, Saturdays to Thursdays, at a rate of 3 Dirhams per hour for Premium Parking (identified by turquoise and white curbstones) with a maximum stay of 4 hours, and 2 Dirhams per hour or 15 Dirhams per day for Standard Parking (identified by turquoise and black curbstones).

For further information and inquiries, customers can call MAWAQIF call center toll-free number 800-3009.

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announce today its official sponsor of Abu Dhabi Air Expo 2013, which will be held under the patronage of H.H Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, National Security Advisor and Vice Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, in Al Bateen Executive Airport, from 5th to 7th March 2013. This initiative plays a vital role in developing a world-class aviation industry in Abu Dhabi.

DoT reinforces its participation in this exhibition, which is considered one of the largest air shows dedicated to private jets that reflect the growing importance of aviation industry in the Arab world and the entire region. The exhibition will witness the attendance of more than 12 thousand visitors plus major aviation players from across the GCC, Europe and the United States.

On the sideline of the event, DoT will conduct a workshop under the title: "Air Transport Exhibitor in Abu Dhabi", which will be attended by a number of prominent aviation sector companies such as Royal Jet, Al Jaber Aviation (AJA), Falcon Aviation Services (FAS), Maximus Air and other local and international companies. The workshop will take place on Thursday, March 7, 2013 and will address the latest developments and techniques adopted in the aviation sector, in addition to important topics related to the aviation transport sector like challenges that operators face, future prospects and other areas relevant to this growing industry globally.  
 
It is worth mentioning that Abu Dhabi Air Expo is an integrated platform for the decision-makers and leaders in the general aviation sector to share views and experiences to promote their latest innovations and development in the aviation sector, with a continuously growing audience of businesses, pilots and aviation enthusiasts around the world.

The Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi (DoT) announced today the launching of the “Trip Generation and Parking Rates Manual for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi”. In addition DOT initiated the Transportation Impact Study (TIS) online system. This is part of DoT's endeavor to transform numerous services from paper to electronic methods, which will enhance customer services and expedite the review process.   

The Transportation Impact Study (TIS) is one of the requirements for any development in Abu Dhabi Emirate. The (TIS) contribute to the planning of infrastructure in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.  The preparation of the TIS relies mainly on the availability of a comprehensive manual, which calculate the expected trips generated and identify the parking demand requirement for each Development based on the proposed land uses 

The Integrated Transportation Planning (ITP) Division in DOT prepared a study, where the project team surveyed more than 400 sites in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Western Region areas.  The study covered more than 70 land use type, including residential, commercial, lodging and industrial projects. Subsequently, the new trip generation and parking rates have been defined for different land uses in Abu Dhabi Emirate which also varies according to the project location either inside or outside the Central Business District (CBD).

In addition, the trip generation and parking rates manual has been linked to the TIS online system. The system will calculate traffic volumes and parking requirements related to the proposed land use information according to the new Trip Generation and Parking Rates Manual.

It is worth noting that publishing of the Trip Generation and Parking Rates manual will help in planning the transportation infrastructure surrounding any project in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. 

With regard to the development of the TIS online system, this system helps in saving time and effort for applicants through the continuous communication between developers, consultants and DOT representatives to enhance customer services and expedite the review process. The DOT is also working in coordination with other relevant stakeholders to establish online integration.

it is expected that the Trip Generation and Parking Rates manual issued by the Department of Transport will be utilized in several cities with similar land use characteristics.

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi today announced the launch of the "Mawaqif in our lives" awareness campaign. The campaign will kick off on March 17 and continue for two consecutive months during which it aims to raise public awareness on how to use "Mawaqif” services, the comprehensive and integrated parking management program that addresses the parking needs in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. 

The announcement of "Mawaqif” campaign came during a press conference held in Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. The awareness campaign will be showcased in print, electronic and broadcast media, as well as on buses and social networking platforms such as Facebook; Twitter; YouTube and Instagram, to open all possible doors of communication with the public. In addition, the public awareness campaign will feature competitions in the media reinforcing awareness about “Mawaqif” services.

The campaign hopes to educate the public on the use of “Mawaqif” various features and benefits, such as “Mawaqif” colors; how to pay; where it is permissible to park and parking times and allowed durations.

“Mawaqif” parking times are from 8AM to 12PM daily from Saturday to Thursday. The parking areas are categorized as “Premium Parking” (turquoise and white colors) and "Standard Parking" (turquoise and black). Resident Parking is marked with a street sign and/or a continues turquoise line, and is enforced from 9PM to 8AM. In addition, villa residents with valid permits have dedicated parking around-the-clock. “Mawaqif” offers a 10-minutes grace period when vehicles are first parked legally.

The campaign will highlight the different payment methods for “Mawaqif”, including, coins; prepaid cards; “m-Mawaqif” (for Abu Dhabi registered and non-Abu Dhabi registered vehicles), and “direct mobile billing” for Abu Dhabi registered vehicles only. Drivers can also pay for “Mawaqif” by Credit and Debit Cards such as Visa and MasterCard.

The campaign will focus on dedicated parking areas for different users, such as residents, visitors, special needs, etc. The campaign will also highlight prohibited parking areas such as reserved parking bays; fire hydrant bays; yellow and grey curbstones, sandpits and sidewalks.     

For further information and inquiries, customers may call “Mawaqif” toll-free number 800-3009 which operates in both Arabic and English. 

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi today announced the launch of its  Crash Analysis and Reporting System (CARS), which will be implemented in DoT at a cost of exceeding 3.4 million dirhams. This initiative comes as part of the DoT’s endeavor to improve the level of traffic safety and reduce serious crashes in the capital.

The system was developed by the Traffic Safety team at DoT in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Police to address the DoT’s need for scientific engineering analysis capabilities to assess accidents data and information related to road safety. The solution was developed by global expert “The British Transport Research Laboratory” (TRL), an independent consultancy and research institute that specializes in the transport sector.
 
The new system aims to adopt international best practice in the management of road safety programs, technical analysis, study of traffic safety data and assessment of information such as traffic density information; speed data and road assets (such as signboards, bridges, underpasses and barriers). It will also utilize social data to identify the nature and indicate population segments for each residential sector, which will help in identifying trends, patterns and predate location of crashes. These evaluations will contribute to the development of various solutions in order to identify the main causes of accidents, identify and implement appropriate counter measures in the fields of engineering and legislation, education and training.

The system will provide specialists in the DoT with relevant data, information and tools to take appropriate decisions to address traffic safety issues. These tools will offer frequent accidents site management capabilities, help save time, costs, and avoid less efficient traffic safety solutions.

The DoT aims to make “crash analysis and reporting system” the main tool for the management of road safety programs and follow up the implementation and evaluation through the integration of available and future database to enhance the level of safety. DoT has recently implemented an electronic link with Abu Dhabi Police to provide DoT with traffic accidents data that would support the efforts of CARS, in engineering studies.

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

The Department of Transport’s (DoT) in Abu Dhabi “No Objection Certification” (NOC) system project was chosen among the top six projects worldwide for ‘best project contributing to organizational value, sustainability and innovation’, during the annual “Operational Excellence Management” conference in Orlando, USA. This recognition followed the DoT’s efforts in the development of information systems for public transport in Abu Dhabi according to the highest international standards. 

The (NOC) system project was chosen from an extensive list of projects from around the world. Specialized committees by the “Operational Excellence Management” team conducted a thorough study and accurate segmentation for all the candidate projects based on several criteria to assess the positive impact in the organizations and power-system and the suitability for global engineering standards.

It is worth mentioning that the DoT has won three awards recently for its NOC system. DoT won the Gold Award at the Business Process Management (BPM) and Workflow Conference held in Washington D.C., ‘best application’ from “FlowCentric”, a business process management specialists and an award from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA).

DoT, through the (NOC) system, aims to effectively and meticulously plan projects by applying best practices and world-standard engineering solutions, in line with In line with its Surface Transport Master Plan (STMP).

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announced today the implementation of the “Post Collision Inspection Program” in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Police. The initiative aimed at investigating vehicle crashes and identifying root cause of crashes in Abu Dhabi such as geometric design of roads, geometric curves, traffic signals and traffic density on the road. The program allows the DoT to analyze the data and use the insight to better develop roads and the Emirate’s overall traffic safety.

The program, led by the DoT, was developed for highway safety engineers as part of the Joint Safety and Traffic Solution Committee. The committee is made up of several Abu Dhabi government entities, including: Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi; Abu Dhabi Police (ADP); Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) and the Municipality of Abu Dhabi (ADM). Safety engineers across all entities are actively participating in the program through sharing relevant material/data and developing counter measures to treat locations.

Commenting on the recent announcement, Eng. Faisal Al Suwaidi, General Director of Main Roads Division for the Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi said: “Our drive to developing and implementing world-class programs at international standards stems from our commitment to produce a safe and efficient road network across the emirate of Abu Dhabi. We have already received significant data that will be incorporated into our Road Safety Master Plan and we are proud to work alongside our partners to ensure the highest road safety measures across Abu Dhabi.

The DoT is actively working with safety engineers across the entities to help reduce road accidents across the Emirate. DoT conducted a post collision investigation training course locations last year for all safety engineers from DoT, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Western Region Municipalities and Abu Dhabi Police. DoT is also planning to conduct more sessions in the future to cover additional number of road safety teams across the Emirate.

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

In Line with the Integrated Intelligent Transportation Systems Division Strategy

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announced today the launch of its integrated Variable Electronic Message Signs (VMS) project across the city of Abu Dhabi. This initiative comes as part of the DoT’s strategy to ensure the seamless integration between all modes of transport to fulfill the transport-safety, mobility and sustainability needs in line with the surface Transport Master Plans (STMP) in Abu Dhabi.  

The project is set to provide over eighty (80) VMS electronic signs across Abu Dhabi main roads and internal streets to alert motorists of traffic congestion, road blocks, construction, road weather information, and road accidents providing needed time to change their travel route, if necessary.

“The launch of our VMS project is a testament to our commitment to providing our community with safer roads across the city of Abu Dhabi,” said Eng. Faisel Al Suwaidi, General Director of Main Roads in the Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi. “The electronic signs will allow us to communicate with motorists in real time to ensure they are kept up-to-date with necessary traffic information to plan their route, accordingly and be aware of any upcoming traffic issues.”

The DoT is preparing to launch two types of VMS to enhance road safety. Thirty-eight (38) electronic signs will be general message boards which alert motorists of any road closures, while forty-eight (48) electronic signs will provide specific lane messages identifying closures and speed limit changes preparing motorists for any road diversions and upcoming traffic. The signs will also be fitted with closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs) to ensure that messages are clear and up-to-date.

In addition, fifty-six (56) of the electronic signs will also feature traffic counters that will collect data and send across to the central data center. The data will be analyzed in real time and will be used to alert motorists if there is upcoming traffic and estimated delay time. The DoT will also track weather conditions such as fog and rain fall, to prepare motorists to reduce their driving speeds and be extra vigilant while on the road.

“As part of our Abu Dhabi Surface Transport Master Plan (STMP), we will continue to evolve our roads by implementing a set of international services and regulations to keep our motorists informed and safe,” Al Suwaidi added.

The project will be rolled out across several phases and will be fully operational during the third quarter of 2014.

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae 

3 new bus routes in Abu Dhabi and 6 in Al Ain

The Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi announced today that it has expanded bus services by operating 9 new routes: three in Abu Dhabi and six in Al Ain. The buses began providing services for commuters in both cities recently. The new services will increase the number of total daily bus trips in Abu Dhabi by 27% and in Al Ain by 20% respectively.

According to DoT, the new routes include:
• Lane number (010): connecting Ras Al Akhdar with Al Mina and passing through Al Falah Street and Tourist Club Area.
• Lane number (040): connecting Al Marrayah Sowwah Square with Al Bateen Executive Airport.
• Lane number (063): linking Al Marina Area with Al Reem Island.
Moring trips (from 06:00 am - 11:00 pm) on those services are scheduled every 20 minutes while night ones (from 11:00 pm - 01:00 am) are every 60 minutes.

New initiated bus routes in Al Ain include:
• Lane number (360): connecting Al Ain Bus Station with Madinat Nahil West.
• Lane number (380): connecting Al Ain Bus Station with Al Faqa Souk.
• Lane number (390): connecting Al Ain Bus Station with Al Shwaib Souq.
• Lane number (376): connecting Madinat Nahil West Mosque with Sweihan-Souq.
Bus trip services on the those routes are scheduled every 120 minutes.

Other new bus services that are now operational in Al Ain are:
• Lane number (495): connecting Al Ain Souq with Alia Mosque via trips every 60 minutes.
• Lane number (496): connecting Al Saad Poultry Farm with Al Yahar Labour Accommodation by trips scheduled every 30 minutes.

Furthermore, the Department of Transport highlighted that new bus services are aimed at covering new geographic areas via bus routes.

Saeed Mohammed Fadel Al Hameli, General Manager of the Bus Office at the DoT, said, "The operation of new routes that connect strategic locations in both Abu Dhabi and Al Ain is in line with our strategy aimed at providing a larger geographic coverage via bus services, thereby helping attain the envisioned and defined economic and social development of Abu Dhabi through facilitating interconnectivity amongst various areas."

'Bus services are gaining more popularity amongst various segments of the community, given their outstanding advantages as world-class, convenient, safe and available means for transport, making it a quality and sustainable option for commuters", he added.

Stressing the commitment of the DoT to providing bus services that encompass a larger number of tourism landmarks in Abu Dhabi, Al Hameli stated that three bus routes will provide services to Emirates Park Zoo, starting today. Operating a trip every 60 minutes, those lanes are:
• Lane number (202): starts from Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi heading towards Emirates Park Zoo
• Lane number (218): starts from Al Shahama Souq towards Al Raha Beach passing through Emirates Park Zoo.
• Lane number (225): starts from Al Shahama Bus Station towards Al Rahba Hospital passing through Emirates Park Zoo.

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

Rules aimed to provide safer, more efficient and convenient bus services to and from Abu Dhabi-based schools

As part of its commitment to boosting the level of safety and security whilst providing quality transportation services to students to and from their schools, the Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi today unveiled new legislations for school buses. 

Developed in close coordination with Abu Dhabi Education Council and Abu Dhabi Police GHQ with an aim to optimise school transportation, the new regulations will identify, set forth and regulate school transport requirements and standards for all
Abu Dhabi-based school buses.

In line with these regulations that have been determined as a top priority for the DoT, all schools must provide transportation services for their students either directly through their own-operated buses or via DoT-permitted and approved bus service contractors that abide by the set safety, reliability and quality service standards.

To attain those objectives, the DoT-issued school permits for school bus drivers encompass a set of conditions such as age (drivers must be aged 25 years or more), holding a valid UAE license issued for over a year, having a certificate of good conduct, able to speak Arabic or English in order to communicate effectively with students and parents, having accomplished DoT-scheduled training programmes for school bus drivers whilst submitting a medical report every two years indicating they are free of diseases (including disability, chronic and infectious diseases, drug and alcohol addiction).

The new school transportation regulations have also identified schools' responsibilities, requiring them to operate a sufficient number of air-conditioned school buses for all students with separate buses for male and female students aged 12 and above, and if not possible, boys and girls must sit in separate areas. Furthermore, these responsibilities encompass the availability of a qualified and safety procedure-aware supervisor to accompany students aged 11 or below to enforce the rules whilst overseeing students boarding and disembarking at students’ houses, ensuring that they are met by a guardian. The new regulations will ensure that all school transport buses are fully equipped with all required facilities for students with special needs.

In addition, the new regulations also set the maximum age and operation time for buses. Moreover, school bus drivers have to carry out daily bus inspections including lights, tires, seats, and the structure of the bus keeping  a checklist of examination and reports for cases of any malfunctions. To ensure students' safety, drivers must check the availability of first aid kits and fire extinguishers on the bus and that the bus entrance and exit, corridors and emergency exits are free of any obstacles before any trip. Drivers are strictly prohibited from exceeding the speed limit allowed for each street, and must drive at maximum speed of 80 k/h or less.

The DoT has allowed bus operators until the beginning of September to modify 50% of their fleet, with the rest to be completed by September next year. No bus shall be registered, renewed, cancelled, or given up unless with a permit issued by the DoT starting from 1st May 2013.

Moreover, all school buses are to be equipped with ( Global Positioning System GPS) devices to determine the bus locations, indicate speed and braking movements. School buses should also be fitted with electronic systems such as closed-circuit television networks with the ability to record audio and video as well as external cameras to monitor the buses from all angles. 

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

In line with its strategy aimed to optimizing the land transport infrastructure in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi by establishing world-class, integrated and sustainable road network, the Department of Transport (DoT) in Abu Dhabi today announced the commencement of traffic rehabilitation project at the entrance of Dalma Mall, one of largest shopping malls in Abu Dhabi and the region.

The AED 77 million project planned to be accomplished by end year end, encompasses building an 8.5 kilometer road network, setting up 6 traffic lights in various interchanges, and modifying of the existing bridge linking Musaffah Industrial Area with Mohammed Bin Zayed City to facilitate traffic flow. 

According to Eng. Faisal Al Suwaidi, General Director of Main Roads Division for the Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi, the Dalma Mall Road improvements project is one of the strategic initiatives by the DoT with an aim to facilitate traffic flow, raise the bar of services and safety levels for road users, whilst ensuring less road congestion and ability to comprehend expected vehicle increase as a result of urban development the area is experiencing.

Located to the east of Abu Dhabi, 25 Km from the city centre near Mohammad Bin Zayed City, Dalma Mall is situated in one of the fastest-growing areas of the capital, where several new residential communities are flourishing, including Khalifa City (A) Khalifa City (B) Mohammad Bin Zayed City, Al Raha Beach, Al Raha Gardens, Abu Dhabi Gate, and Al Maqtaa.

DoT calls on all road users to be cautious while work is in progress, abide by safety rules, and drive within speed limits to avoid mishaps.

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae

In response to growing needs of bus services amongst commuters, the Department of Transport in Abu Dhabi (DoT) announced today that ten operating bus routes in Abu Dhabi and five in Al Ain experienced some expansions and changes in their routes.

According to the DoT, these bus services that have witnessed some changes are:

• Route number (005): linking Marina Area with Al Sowwah Square-Mariah Island, whereas the bus stop at the Municipality Building is now cancelled.
• Route number (007): will reach Sun Tower-Al Reem Island from Marina Area.
• Route number (008): has been expanded to reach Fish Market-Al Mina from Al Bateen West with the service arriving at the Marina is now cancelled and replaced by service number 9 and 11.
• Route number (009): will stop at the Abu Dhabi Municipality Building.
• Route number (032): has been widened, providing a direct service to Al Khabairah area, Al Khaldiyah, and Al Muroor from Al Maqta West.
• Route number (034): connecting Ladies Club, Al Ras Al Akhdar with Abu Dhabi Court will experience direct services to Al Ras Al Akhdar, Al Khaldiyah, and Al Muroor.
• Route number (044): starting from Officers Club, will expand to the Iranian Market through Al Mina with travel time in Al Mushrif reduced.
• Route number (052): will reach Al Sowwah Square-Al Mariah, from Abu Dhabi Courts.
• Route number (054): has been expanded to reach Fish Market, Mina from Petroleum Institute, Umm Al Naar.
• Route number (56): will have a better reach to Khalifa Park from Mina Souq.

In Al Ain, bus routes that have experienced expansions or changes are:

• Route number (350): linking Bus Station with Police School-Sweihan, has canceled its stop at Salamat and Al Yahar North Interchange. The service now reaches the Police School in Sweihan.
• Route number (440): that connects Al Ain Bus Station with Al Musaffah Bus Station in Abu Dhabi, has canceled the service between Twam Hospital and Al Ain Airport. The route now starts from Al Ain Bus Station, stopping at Al Yahar North Interchange and Al Saad Police Station, changing the route from Al Khatim, to stop inside Musaffah Bus Station in Abu Dhabi.
• Route number (490): connecting Abu Dhabi International Airport with Al Ain Bus Station. It will stop at Al Yahar North Interchange and Al Saad Police Station, then have its route changed in Al Khatim with stop service cancelled at both Abu Dhabi University and Al Mafraq Hospital.  Service extends to Abu Dhabi Airport Terminal 2.
• Route (491): linking Al Ain Souq with Al Yahar North, now reaches Alf Maskan Area and stops at Al Yahar North Exchange.
• Route (X90): linking Al Ain Bus Station with Abu Dhabi Bus Station, now stops at Al Yahar North Interchange.

Stressing the commitment of the DoT to providing a wider geographic coverage through bus services, Mr. Saeed Mohammed Fadel Al Hameli, General Manager of the Bus Office at the DoT, said, "These route modifications have been implemented following a comprehensive study conducted by the Dot on all existing route services with an aim to address commuters' needs of world-class, convenient and almost around-the-clock bus transportation options."

"With the bus users being the most prioritised segment of this service, the DoT is committed to fulfilling their various needs. We would like to pay tribute to the public for their welcoming responses for the DoT's various services by communicating inputs and suggestions on how to optimise public transport services. Such valuable interactions are highly cherished by the DoT, which endeavors to study them carefully and adopt many of them", Al Hameli added.

Recently, the DoT embarked on an expansion of bus services by operating 9 new routes: three in Abu Dhabi and six in Al Ain. Providing services for commuters in both cities, the new services have increased the number of total daily bus trips in Abu Dhabi and al Ain by 27% and 20% respectively.

The DoT's bus service fleet encompasses more than 800 of world-class buses, providing transportation service to more than 170,000 commuters every day. More than 500 buses operate in Abu Dhabi, around 200 in Al Ain whilst more than 80 buses provide intercity services. 

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For more information or enquiries, please conact: mahmoud.elasheri@dot.abudhabi.ae