Abu Dhabi Planning Centre Signs Digital Simulation Agreement With Arup in London

The centre is an affiliate of DMT. WAM reported that the agreement covers integrated planning mechanisms, the use of advanced technologies and digital simulation, and closer coordination between land use, transport networks and infrastructure. It also provides for sharing international best practice in developing communities that meet Abu Dhabi's future growth needs.

DMT Chairman Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa led the delegation, which included senior officials from the department and its affiliates. In technical sessions with Arup, they discussed lessons from planning and delivering modern transport projects and how stronger links between land use and transport can improve access to services and support mixed-use districts.

Data-Driven Planning

The officials also looked at digital simulation and decision-support tools, including the Madrid City Simulator, WAM said. Discussions covered how data and digital models can test urban development scenarios and their likely effects on transport networks and land use before projects are approved. The delegation visited the London regeneration districts of Battersea, Canary Wharf and King's Cross, and discussed the Public Art Abu Dhabi project and the role of cultural features in public spaces.

"Our time in London provided an important opportunity to exchange knowledge and expertise with leading international organisations and examine practical solutions and experience that can support our work to create a more efficient built environment," Al Shorafa said, according to WAM.

Why It Matters

The agreement fits a wider push by Abu Dhabi government bodies to use data, simulation and AI tools in planning and infrastructure decisions as the emirate's population and capital projects programme expand. Modelling how new districts will affect transport demand before construction starts can reduce costly redesigns later. WAM did not give a timeline, budget or specific projects for the cooperation, and memorandums of this kind are typically non-binding frameworks rather than contracts.