UAE Infrastructure And Housing Council Reviews Strategic Projects At Second Meeting Of 2025

The UAE Infrastructure and Housing Council's second meeting of 2025 was chaired by Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure. Held at the Ministry's Dubai headquarters, the meeting focused on strategic projects to enhance infrastructure across the UAE. Al Mazrouei stressed the need for unified national efforts in infrastructure and housing to align with national goals.

Al Mazrouei highlighted the importance of policy coordination between federal and local levels. This coordination aims to achieve integration among relevant entities, advancing infrastructure efficiency and sustainability. Such advancements are crucial for strengthening the UAE’s international standing. The meeting included key figures like Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer from Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority and Eng. Hassan Al Mansouri from the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.

The council discussed updates on traffic congestion policies, aiming to reduce vehicle growth and improve road network efficiency. Flexible traffic projects were highlighted as essential for economic growth and congestion alleviation. The meeting also reviewed a national study on sea level rise impacts on coastal infrastructure, emphasizing sustainable adaptation plans.

Attendees included senior officials like Dr. Salem Al Kaabi from Abu Dhabi's Department of Municipalities and Transport, Consultant Eng. Salah bin Butti Al Muhairi from Sharjah's Initiatives Implementation Authority, and Abdulrahman Mohammed Abdullah Al Nuaimi from Ajman's Municipality and Planning Department.

Council members were briefed on the National Contractor Classification Guide initiative. This guide aims to standardize classification standards locally and federally, facilitating business operations across the Emirates. It is seen as a key step toward transparency, investment encouragement, and construction sector efficiency improvement.

The meeting also addressed challenges in promoting infrastructure sustainability in line with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision. This vision focuses on building an advanced society through sustainable urban development that enhances community well-being.

Climate Change Preparedness

Emphasizing climate readiness, discussions included reassessing transportation systems and enhancing maintenance programs to protect lives and property against future climate changes. Early warning programs were also considered vital for preparedness.

The first periodic meeting of 2025 had already covered developments in infrastructure projects aimed at creating a sustainable urban environment. Future directions were discussed to align with community well-being enhancement goals.

The construction sector was valued at approximately AED150 billion in 2024, highlighting its significance in economic development. The council's initiatives aim to boost this sector further by encouraging investments through improved transparency.

With inputs from WAM