Dubai is set to embark on an ambitious AED 2.5B ($681M) collaborative effort between the public and private sectors, targeting various transformative transport projects.
Among the proposed initiatives scheduled for implementation between 2024 and 2026 are the introduction of air taxis, the construction of a sky garden bridge spanning Dubai Creek, and the deployment of intelligent street lighting.
Additionally, a significant real estate and commercial development is slated to take place near the Union Station of the Dubai Metro. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has given its approval to the “Dubai Portfolio for Public-Private Partnership (PPP) (2024-2026),” encompassing 10 projects with an approximate value of AED 2.5B.
This strategic move aligns with the overarching strategy of the Dubai Government, focusing on nurturing public-private partnerships to bolster the emirate’s economic growth. The objective is to enhance the role of the private sector in both infrastructure development and service delivery.
RTA’s Public-Private Partnership Portfolio: Fostering Collaborations and Innovations in Mobility and Finance
Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, highlighted that endorsing the Public-Private Partnership Portfolio underscores RTA’s commitment to strengthening collaborations with the private sector and embracing international best practices, according to Arabian Business.
“It seeks to map out a comprehensive framework to support public-private partnerships, improve the regulatory environment for long-term collaborations, introduce innovative solutions, and create new opportunities in the mobility and finance fields.”
“RTA has a track record of pioneering experiences in constructing various infrastructure projects in the fields of roads and transport.”
“Notable among these is the project to establish three comprehensive rest stops for trucks, along with 16 laybys for trucks strategically located across the emirate. The project is the first of its kind in the region.”
“The list of renowned projects undertaken with the private sector includes an integrated bicycle network known as ‘Careem Bike Share.”
RTA’s Partnership Initiatives: Elevating Multi-Modal Mobility, Sustainability, and Urban Development in Dubai
“It supported RTA’s efforts to enhance the integration of multi-modal mobility means by facilitating individual mobility journeys and seamlessly connecting them with public transport options.”
“The project contributes to sustainability in Dubai and encourages a healthy, active lifestyle among residents and tourists by offering alternative transportation choices and improving movement within communities.”
“Other key partnership projects undertaken with the private sector include the logistics transportation platform project and securing international operators through partnership contracts for RTA’s assets highlighted by the contract for the operation and maintenance of Dubai Metro and Tram”.
“Al Tayer detailed the projects listed in the Dubai Portfolio for Public-Private Partnerships that present genuine opportunities for entities and businesses.”
“Among these is the ‘Union 71’ project, a comprehensive residential and commercial complex adjacent to the Union Station of the Dubai Metro, a key interchange station between the Red and Green Lines.”
“This urban transit-oriented development project integrates commercial residential units and retail outlets with the underground metro station.”
Enhancing Dubai’s Transport Infrastructure: Key Projects in the Public-Private Partnership Portfolio
“With its proximity and accessibility to the metro, public buses, and marine transport stations, the project will serve and ease the mobility of mass transport riders from all spectrums of the community.”
“The portfolio also comprises a multi-level parking terminal in Port Saeed Al Karama, Deira Plaza; smart street lighting; aerial taxi; smart platforms for transport and rental vehicles; housing quarters for drivers in Al Khawaneej, Al Ruwayah, Al Awir, and Jebel Ali; upgrading the commercial development at Al Karama Bus Station; and a sky garden suspended bridge over Dubai Creek.”
“Promoting the public-private partnership (PPP) is crucial to uplifting Dubai’s standing and appeal as an investors’ hub.”
“It also contributes to improving the quality of public services, and facilitates the transfer of knowledge, expertise, and innovation from the private to the public sector”.