Abstract
The municipality of Abu Dhabi is in the process of updating its long-range master transportation plan. The initial step in this process was to collect substantial data on existing transportation system characteristics. The extensive data-collection program made possible a comprehensive analysis of traffic characteristics for the first time in more than 20 years. Traffic characteristics in Abu Dhabi have changed significantly during this time. Recent changes in government working hours have caused a dramatic shift in peaking patterns. Some characteristics, such as the availability and performance of taxis, are unique. Other characteristics, such as general peak period factors, are typical of most Arab Gulf cities. Presented is an analysis of existing traffic characteristics in Abu Dhabi. Peaking patterns, vehicle classifications, vehicle occupancies, and other characteristics are analyzed and described. The characteristics that are unique to Abu Dhabi are identified. Characteristics transferable to other Gulf Cooperation Council countries are highlighted and discussed.
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