February 23, 2026
Methodology About Newsletter
WE THE UAE 2031
The Vanderbilt Terminal for the UAE's National Transformation
INDEPENDENT GLOBAL INTELLIGENCE FOR THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
UAE GDP: AED 2.03T ▲ 5.7% | Non-Oil GDP Share: 84.3% ▼ -5.2pp | FDI Inflows: $45.6B ▲ 48.7% | GDP Growth: 4.0% ▲ -0.3pp vs 2023 | Inflation: 1.7% ▼ +0.0pp vs 2023 | Female Participation: 55.1% ▲ +0.6pp vs 2023 | Population: 11.0M ▲ 4.8% | Emiratisation Rate: 12.5% ▲ 2.1pp | Global Competitiveness: #7 ▲ 3 places | Clean Energy Capacity: 7.2 GW ▲ 18.4% | ADX Index: 9,842 ▲ 4.7% | DFM Index: 4,621 ▲ 6.2% | UAE GDP: AED 2.03T ▲ 5.7% | Non-Oil GDP Share: 84.3% ▼ -5.2pp | FDI Inflows: $45.6B ▲ 48.7% | GDP Growth: 4.0% ▲ -0.3pp vs 2023 | Inflation: 1.7% ▼ +0.0pp vs 2023 | Female Participation: 55.1% ▲ +0.6pp vs 2023 | Population: 11.0M ▲ 4.8% | Emiratisation Rate: 12.5% ▲ 2.1pp | Global Competitiveness: #7 ▲ 3 places | Clean Energy Capacity: 7.2 GW ▲ 18.4% | ADX Index: 9,842 ▲ 4.7% | DFM Index: 4,621 ▲ 6.2% |

Definition

The Abu Dhabi Metro is a planned urban rail transit system intended to serve the capital emirate with a network of metro and light rail lines. First announced as part of the Abu Dhabi Surface Transport Master Plan in 2009, the project envisions multiple lines covering Abu Dhabi Island, the mainland, and connections to key satellite developments including Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, and Abu Dhabi International Airport. The system is overseen by the Department of Transport (DoT) Abu Dhabi, previously known as the Department of Municipalities and Transport.

UAE Context

While Dubai opened its metro in 2009, Abu Dhabi has taken a phased approach to mass transit development, prioritizing bus rapid transit and surface transport improvements before committing to metro construction. The capital’s lower population density and different urban form require a transit solution distinct from Dubai’s. As Abu Dhabi’s population and economic activity grow, particularly around Saadiyat, Yas, and Reem Islands, the demand case for rail strengthens. The planned metro network would integrate with Etihad Rail’s national railway and local bus services under a unified fare system.

Key Data

  • Status: Planning and design phase with periodic re-evaluation
  • Planned scope: Multiple metro and light rail lines across Abu Dhabi
  • Oversight: Department of Transport Abu Dhabi
  • Key connections: Saadiyat Island, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi International Airport, mainland districts
  • Integration: Designed to connect with Etihad Rail national network
  • Interim measures: Expanded bus rapid transit and intelligent transport systems

Significance for Vision 2031

The Abu Dhabi Metro represents a major future investment in urban mobility for the UAE capital. As the city grows and diversifies its economy, efficient mass transit will be essential for managing congestion, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting livability. The project aligns with Vision 2031 goals of world-class infrastructure and sustainable urban development, even as its timeline continues to be refined based on population growth, ridership projections, and fiscal priorities.