City authorities all over the world are finding that, for congestion charging schemes to work in shifting urban commuters out of their cars, there must be reliable alternative modes in place. “Notable schemes including Singapore ERP, London congestion charge, Stockholm congestion tax and HOT lanes in the US have proved that congestion charging is a necessary next step to encourage travellers to use public transport,” says Zeina Nazer, co-founder of Cities Forum (pictured). “Dubai RTA Salik toll was implemented in 2007, with Dubai Metro implemented in 2009. Subsequently, In 2021, Abu Dhabi ITC toll system was implemented - equally proving to be successful.” Plans for road pricing require good business cases, explains Nazer, who is also technical expert for UK Department for Transport and chair of ITS UK RUC Forum.
This year she chaired the first RUC conference for MENA in Abu Dhabi, proving the commitment of the region in adopting road pricing. “It was a pleasure to showcase the examples of Dubai Salik and Abu Dhabi ITC tolling system as best practice to learn from,” she smiles. “I am proud to see local UAE players, like Tatweer, becoming key players - transitioning from being technology importers to becoming a lead solution provider expanding globally.”
