Abu Dhabi Targets $54bn in Infrastructure Projects, Looks to Double Investment by 2040

Abu Dhabi is seeking international partners to undertake $54 billion worth of infrastructure projects over the next five years, with plans to double that investment by 2040, according to the head of the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC). The announcement came during an ADPIC delegation visit to Istanbul, where officials met leading Turkish contractors and developers.

The roadshow in Turkey followed similar engagements in Singapore and China as Abu Dhabi looks to build a shortlist of global firms for its upcoming domestic projects. ADPIC director Maysarah Mahmoud Salim Eid told reporters on Wednesday that companies from all three countries will be considered before final selections are announced.

Eid said Abu Dhabi and Turkey share a strong alignment in infrastructure development goals, adding that the discussions in Istanbul focused on cooperation for large-scale public works. He noted that some companies have already been shortlisted and that formal announcements will be issued once agreements are finalised.

Turkey and China dominate global contractor rankings, placing first and second respectively on this year’s ENR “Top 250 International Contractors” list. Turkish firms alone undertook more than $31 billion in overseas projects in 2024, with the UAE emerging as their top market at $6.1 billion. Representatives from major Turkish firms including Dogus, Kalyon and Summa attended the ADPIC sessions in Istanbul.

Eid said the emirate’s “mega portfolio” includes strategic projects such as bridges and tunnels aligned with the UAE’s long-term economic diversification and growth strategy. He highlighted that nearly half of the planned investments fall under social infrastructure, particularly national housing, as well as schools and community facilities.

ADPIC’s budget through 2030 stands at $54 billion. Eid said the figure is expected to double by 2040 as Abu Dhabi expands its development programmes across the emirate, including in Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain and the Al Dhafra region.

The projects will be delivered through a mix of direct government financing and partnerships with foreign consultants and contractors. Eid said the financing model could also include joint investments with real estate developers and long-term infrastructure investors. Decisions will be guided by the outcomes of the roadshow and the technical capabilities of shortlisted companies.

As Abu Dhabi accelerates its infrastructure expansion, officials say international collaboration will be central to delivering the projects that underpin the emirate’s broader economic ambitions.