Abu Dhabi Ranks Fourth Globally in Public Transport Quality

Gulf Insider

12-04-2025

Abu Dhabi ranked fourth globally in terms of public transport quality based on resident feedback, the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has announced.
In a comprehensive new study conducted by DMT, 88% of the emirate's residents expressed satisfaction with public transport services. According to the results, shared by DMT through its digital platforms, Abu Dhabi ranked fourth globally in terms of public transport quality based on resident feedback.
The study highlighted that 88% of residents find public transport services efficient and comfortable. The Automated Rapid Transit (ART) systems were particularly praised for their convenience and high performance. Public buses are also designed to accommodate people of determination, with wheelchair-accessible units operating across eight major tourist routes.
Public transport remains a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's integrated development strategy. The emirate boasts a world-class road network built to the highest international standards, prioritising sustainability, safety, and security for all road users. Over recent years, Abu Dhabi has consistently ranked among the top 20 cities globally in key transport performance indicators.
Leading model in public mobility
Abu Dhabi continues to set a benchmark in public mobility, offering a diversified, safe, and high-quality transport ecosystem. The emirate features a comprehensive network of modern public buses, maritime transport services, and taxis, with long-term infrastructure plans that include metro and railway systems.
Authorities place strong emphasis on adopting cutting-edge smart technologies and promoting sustainability by introducing environmentally friendly transport solutions.
International reports have reaffirmed the UAE's leading position, with Abu Dhabi at the forefront. The UAE ranked among the top 10 countries globally in public transport efficiency and effectiveness, according to the World Economic Forum. It also secured sixth place in resident satisfaction with public transportation in the Legatum Institute's Prosperity Index.
Abu Dhabi's public transport system is widely recognised as a benchmark in providing safe, inclusive, and reliable services, reflecting the emirate's broader commitment to enhancing quality of life and driving sustainable development.
Pioneering innovations in 2024
The year 2024 marked a significant turning point for urban mobility in Abu Dhabi with the launch of Abu Dhabi Mobility Week—a platform showcasing the latest innovations and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
Among the standout developments were successful test flights of passenger drones. Two trial flights were conducted: the first featured a five-seat drone capable of flying over 250km with a payload of up to 350kg. The second showcased a smaller drone designed for two passengers, capable of covering 35km in about 20 minutes.
Underscoring its leadership in advanced mobility, Abu Dhabi announced a government-level partnership with Joby Aviation to establish the emirate's first integrated electric aerial mobility network.
Strong return on investment
In 2024, Abu Dhabi's strategic investments in mobility yielded tangible results. Public bus ridership exceeded 90 million passengers, while marine transport services recorded over 168,000 users. Air travel passengers surpassed 28 million, underscoring the robustness and integration of the emirate's transport infrastructure.
Strategic infrastructure development
The DMT invested Dh3.4 billion in several transport infrastructure projects, including the Halio–Abu Al Abyad Road in Al Dhafra and the opening of two bridges as part of the Gulf Street–Shakhbout bin Sultan Street interchange project, costing Dh315 million. This project significantly reduced peak morning commute times on the vital Gulf Street corridor by up to 80%.
Additionally, 247km of new cycling tracks were added, bringing the total cycling network across the emirate to over 1,200km. These developments are part of a broader strategy to reduce transport-related emissions by investing in sustainable public transport systems.
In line with global climate goals, Abu Dhabi Mobility unveiled plans to fully transition to zero-emission electric and hydrogen-powered buses, aiming to transform Abu Dhabi Island into a green mobility zone by 2030. The long-term vision targets a 100% transition to sustainable energy-powered buses by 2050. The pilot phase of electric and hydrogen bus operations began in late 2024, with a goal of reaching 20% conversion by 2030.
Autonomous transport milestones
Since their debut in November 2021, Abu Dhabi's autonomous vehicles operating on Yas and Saadiyat Islands have reported zero traffic incidents, leading to an expansion of the service to include routes to and from Zayed International Airport.
The autonomous fleet—operating under the brand 'TXAI'—includes self-driving cars, mini Robobuses, and an Automated Rapid Transit (ART) system. Additionally, several EV charging stations have been installed on Yas and Saadiyat Islands.
Abu Dhabi Mobility is now exploring broader deployment of autonomous vehicles across mixed-traffic routes, driven by high public demand—particularly among tourists and residents of Yas and Saadiyat Islands—who value the ease and convenience of reaching destinations using smart mobility applications.