ABU DHABI // Changes to Abu Dhabi to cope with the projected increase in population to four million people – by 2030 – were discussed yesterday.
During the meeting, Plan Capital 2030 Update, dozens of experts and representatives from government entities also discussed ways to place sustainability at the heart of the emirate’s future.
According to data collected by the Urban Planning Council, the number of jobs in Abu Dhabi is also predicted to rise to 2.5 million by 2030, from 1.6 million.
Currently, the population of Abu Dhabi is 1,418,200, with UAE Nationals accounting for about 20 per cent – 253,700. This number is expected to rise to 2,427,000 by 2030, with locals making up just over a fifth of the population (495,300).
“This marks the mid-point of the Plan Capital 2030 Update and it is another opportunity for all of us to work together and participate, as one government, in planning the way forward,” said Sheikh Theyab bin Mohammed bin Zayed, the project director.
“High-speed urban change comes in many forms and we have a responsibility to ensure that our plan is aligned with and supports any new developments that are currently in motion, in addition to ensuring it delivers on the ultimate goals of Plan Capital 2030,” he said.
“These scenarios incorporate assessments of existing infrastructure and transportation networks, both in terms of capacity and current usage, and the anticipated outcome of building out existing areas to full capacity and the subsequent redistribution of the population based on the capacity of these areas.”
More than 47 government agencies and members of the business community are involved in the project.
The workshop will continue until Thursday. A similar workshop was held in September, with a third due to take place early next year.
anwar@thenational.ae
