Abu Dhabi - UAE: Abu Dhabi has been ranked as the world's least congested capital according to the TomTom Traffic Index for 2021, based on the annual survey of 416 cities in 57 countries by the global navigation services company.

The new ranking of the UAE capital is based on a combination of criteria, including the rate of traffic congestion at intersections and streets at various times during the day, including peak hours. The study also analysed the number of traffic lights and their programming and contribution to the development of traffic flow in cities. It also examined the quality of traffic light systems in terms of their long-term viability and weather resistance.

Abu Dhabi recorded 11% congection level, reflecting the impact of the integrated traffic management plan implemented by the Department of Municipalities and Transport. The department’s strategy involved enhancing operational efficiency, improving road assets and infrastructure, and increasing the number of options and modes of public transportation to ensure optimal utilisation of transportation and necessary utilities to improve residents' everyday quality of life.

His Excellency Falah Al Ahbabi, Chairman of DMT, said: "Building an integrated transportation infrastructure is a vital pillar of the emirate's continued efforts to improve the quality of life on par with the best cities globally. We've always followed a long-term strategy and taken a proactive approach to the future, focusing on responding to the residents needs. TomTom's new ranking serves as an encouragement to continue accomplishing DMT’s strategic goals.

“Continuing to get global recognitions for the capital’s transport and traffic management services confirms our leadership’s vision to provide the best quality of life in Abu Dhabi by implementing the highest international standards. We strive to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as one of the world's best places to live and work by developing sustainable smart cities for the future.”

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About the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT)

The Department of Municipalities and Transport was established by Law No. 30 of 2019, and its main priorities are to realize the vision of H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, which draws on the vision of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to embrace progress by placing great value on the importance of pursuing development in line with both the needs of present and future generations and the community in general.

The authority embodies the values of good governance, driven by the needs of the community it serves and working with a passion to accomplish its aims. The Department focuses on finding the most effective means of providing essential, modern, responsive and comprehensive municipal services across three regional municipalities, and supports Abu Dhabi's global position as a leader in innovation-led urban planning and transportation, as part of the Abu Dhabi government's commitment to maintaining the highest standards to the benefit of all citizens and residents of the emirate. 

The DMT is responsible for continually investing in the development of better infrastructure, facilities and transportation sectors within the emirate, guiding, regulating and monitoring urban development to enhance Abu Dhabi's reputation as a world-class destination to live, work and visit.

The DMT also ensures the highest standards of safety, security, sustainability and technological development of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi's land, air and maritime transport networks, in accordance with the highest international standards and the UAE's legislation with the objective of being the region’s connection to the world.

The Department’s aspirations are driven by the simple proposition of innovating and building sustainable smart cities, fostering a capacity to change and adapt in order to maintain excellence in services and sustaining prosperity for future generations, allowing the entire Abu Dhabi community to reach their full potential.