The government of Abu Dhabi has embarked on a series of development programs that will transform this city into a vibrant global capital. Underpinning and directing this multi-dimensional program are several long-, medium- and short-term planning and strategy documents.

These include: “Abu Dhabi 2030: Urban Structure Framework Plan,” which was issued by the emirate’s Urban Planning Council. A comprehensive roadmap for the development of the city, this document will guide planning decisions for the next quarter of a century. The $163 billion plan specifies land use, building heights and transportation plans for the entire metropolitan area and envisions that the city, which in 2007 had a population of 930,000, will grow to 3.1 million by 2030.

Another policy document central to Abu Dhabi’s future is the “Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030,” a comprehensive document for the transformation of the emirate’s economy by 2030. Key goals include a reduced reliance on the oil sector as a source of economic activity

and a greater focus on knowledge-based industries.

Medium-term planning is reflected in the “Abu Dhabi Summary Strategic Plan,” (2008-2012) which involves government policy development, integrated strategic planning and performance management. It was preceded by a multi-year restructuring of the entire Abu Dhabi Government that sought to instill customer service and transparency into all levels of government, with the goal of enhancing the business climate and encouraging investment.

As part of these transparency efforts, the Abu Dhabi Statistics Centre was established to develop and provide accurate and reliable statistics on social, economic, environmental and other matters.

Near-term planning includes documents such as the “Policy Agenda 2007-2008: The Emirate of Abu Dhabi,” the first comprehensive policy agenda of its kind to be issued in the region. It sets clear priorities and articulates detailed plans for each portfolio of government.