Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit Showcases Over $55 Billion In Projects And Partnership Opportunities

The Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit (ADIS) international roadshow in the UAE–Türkiye session highlighted over $55 billion in major projects. This event underscored Abu Dhabi's dedication to creating a sustainable and future-ready urban infrastructure. The session also presented significant partnership prospects for Turkish firms, especially in modular construction, transport, and complex engineering developments.

Mohammed Yousef Al Hosani, Executive Director at the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre, shared that Abu Dhabi is one of the region's most progressive cities. The focus is on building sustainable communities that ensure long-term prosperity. The Centre manages over 600 capital projects aimed at improving quality of life, diversifying the economy, and enhancing environmental resilience.

Al Hosani emphasised the crucial role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in these initiatives. He revealed plans to use modular construction for 40,000 housing units over five years. This approach opens up opportunities for Turkish expertise in the field. Such collaborations are expected to drive innovation and efficiency in urban development.

Eisa Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Acting Executive Director at the Department of Municipalities and Transport, stated that Abu Dhabi aspires to be "the world’s most liveable city." It currently ranks fifth globally in the IMD Smart Cities Index. The UAE leads worldwide in AI application usage, reflecting its commitment to advanced urban services.

With more than 190 nationalities residing in the UAE, there is a growing demand for sophisticated urban services. Al Mazrouei noted that Abu Dhabi’s liveability score rose from 63% in 2023 to 81% last year. Over four decades of UAE–Türkiye cooperation have paved the way for Turkish companies to explore opportunities in roads, bridges, tunnels, integrated transport systems, autonomous mobility, rail, and metro projects.

Sara Issa Al Hosani from the Abu Dhabi Investment Office highlighted efforts to build an export-driven industrial economy. This is supported by advanced manufacturing, logistics, and global trade links. "Abu Dhabi aims for the industrial sector to contribute AED172 billion by 2031," she said.

Incentives for Industrial Growth

The emirate offers incentives like 100% foreign ownership, discounted land leases, and reduced energy costs to bolster industrial growth. These measures aim to attract international businesses and foster economic expansion within Abu Dhabi.

Al Hosani mentioned ongoing negotiations for 27 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs). These agreements will provide businesses in Abu Dhabi with preferential access to 2.5 billion consumers worldwide. Such initiatives are designed to enhance global trade connections and economic integration.

In 2024, AED48 billion was allocated to approved suppliers under the national In-Country Value (ICV) programme. This initiative strengthens local supply chains and creates extensive opportunities for international companies to engage in government tenders.

The ADIS roadshow session showcased Abu Dhabi's strategic vision for infrastructure development. By fostering partnerships with Turkish companies and offering incentives for industrial growth, Abu Dhabi aims to create a vibrant economy supported by sustainable urban infrastructure.

With inputs from WAM