Abu Dhabi municipality (United Arab Emirates) is seeking private interest to develop and manage a series of highway rest areas under the build operate transfer (BOT) model.

The project is part of a master plan to improve safety on Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road by providing safe access, exits, and parking to users who travel between Abu Dhabi and the Western and Eastern Regions, the Northern Emirates, and Oman.

The master plan involves the development of 5 new facilities. The project is divided into two phases.

The first phase will include the development of the first rest are at Ghantoot. It will have an immediate short term impact to address road safety for commuters and light trucks. These four other rest areas will be tendered at a later date.

The Ghantoot area will include new shops and dining options, a supermarket, and other retail and services (a pharmacy, cafes, a gym, a mosque, family facilities, and a short stay motel). It will be located in a plot area of approximately 16,345 sq m, with a gross floor area of 16,343 sq m. The existing five catering facilities and retail shops will be relocated.

According to Abu Dhabi municipality's statement, the design concept is based on similar best practice examples adopted on highways in Europe and North America. The Abu Dhabi municipality is currently working with other government agencies, including the Department of Transport, to ensure that the rest areas comply with traffic safety and security requirements.