In recent discussions, the Federal National Council has critically addressed the government’s policies regarding traffic flow, highlighting essential measures needed to enhance both traffic flow and safety. This discussion reflects a growing concern for the reliable movement of vehicles and pedestrians across the nation, ensuring the well-being of all citizens and visitors. By embracing technological advancements and prioritizing inter-agency coordination, the council aims to tackle current traffic challenges and pave the way for a smoother transit experience.
The Federal National Council strongly condemned the terrorist plot aimed at undermining national unity and destabilizing the state. This plot was revealed alongside the apprehension of the terrorist cell that orchestrated it, which harbored ill intentions toward this cherished homeland and sought to jeopardize its security and stability. The council affirmed that such incidents only strengthen the cohesion and awareness of the Emirati community, rallying around its wise leadership and national institutions, and renewing the determination among its youth to firmly confront anyone who dares to betray the nation or threaten its security.
His Excellency Saqr Ghobash, Chairman of the Council, stated in his opening remarks at the eighth session of the third ordinary meeting of the 18th legislative term, held yesterday in the Zayed Hall at the council’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, that the council stands firmly at the beginning of its session, affirming that this crime represents not only an assault on the state’s security and community safety but also a grave violation of the laws and regulations of the United Arab Emirates, and a blatant betrayal of the homeland that embraced these individuals, provided them with safety and security, and opened the doors to a dignified life within a state founded on justice, the rule of law, and the preservation of human dignity.
He added, “While we categorically reject this heinous criminal behavior, we affirm that the United Arab Emirates, which has extended its hand in goodwill and established a unique model of stability, tolerance, and coexistence, will not allow any deviant ideology or criminal organization to disrupt its security or undermine its achievements. In this context, we extend our appreciation and pride to our security agencies and relevant authorities for their high vigilance and exceptional efficiency in uncovering and thwarting this plot, which underscores the strength of our institutions and the resilience of our state, always ready to protect the homeland and safeguard its accomplishments.” He emphasized that the United Arab Emirates will remain, with God’s permission, a cherished, secure homeland, resilient against advocates of chaos and extremism, steadfast in its commitment to moderation, and dedicated to the security and dignity of its people, confidently and powerfully advancing its civilizational mission.
Government Policy on Traffic Flow
During the session, the Federal National Council discussed the government’s policy regarding traffic safety and flow, adopting several recommendations that emphasized the importance of learning from local and international experiences in employing artificial intelligence technologies in this field. The recommendations included proposals to utilize these technologies to adjust the number of lanes during periods of traffic congestion on federal highways.
The recommendations called for enhanced coordination among relevant authorities to establish sustainable traffic flow in the country through effective planning of roads, efficient management of accidents and congestion, meeting traffic safety requirements, and reducing carbon emissions. They also included the necessity to expedite the establishment of a unified platform to facilitate coordination between federal and local authorities, launch ongoing behavioral awareness campaigns, disseminate videos of real accidents, and educate drivers on managing their emotions on the road.
Unified Regulatory Framework
The recommendations urged the preparation of a unified regulatory framework that defines the technical standards and operating controls for smart transport technologies, regulating the work of service providers and the licensing conditions for infrastructure in line with artificial intelligence systems. This includes regulating vehicle ownership conditions, including defining their lifespan, to address the increase in trips during peak times and ensure smooth traffic flow, in addition to expediting the issuance of the executive regulations for Federal Law Decree No. (14) of 2024 concerning traffic and circulation, incorporating the necessary provisions to ensure traffic safety and flow.
Among those present for the discussion were His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Faris Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and Brigadier Dr. Rashid Sultan Al Khadar, Director General of Legal Affairs at the Ministry of Interior. The council decided to refer the recommendations back to the Committee on Constitutional, Legislative Affairs, Appeals, and Complaints for rephrasing in accordance with the members’ contributions.