Abu Dhabi City Municipality is one of the key service-focused government entities under the Government of Abu Dhabi. Since its establishment, the Municipality has contributed significantly to the emirate’s development, guided by the vision of the wise leadership. It has played a vital role in building integrated infrastructure and implementing strategic projects aligned with Abu Dhabi’s urban and sustainability goals.
Established in 1962, the Municipality marked a major milestone in 1969 with the issuance of an Amiri Decree forming Abu Dhabi’s first Municipal Council. Over time, its scope expanded to include public services, urban planning, road construction, lighting, sewer networks, afforestation, and the development of public markets—laying the foundation for a comprehensive agricultural approach in the emirate.
In 2005, a strategic merger unified Abu Dhabi City Municipality, Al Ain Municipality, the Department of Public Works, and the Department of Agriculture and Animal Production in Al Ain under the Department of Municipalities and Agriculture, enhancing integration and efficiency.
In 2007, the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan (may he rest in peace) issued a law establishing the Department of Municipal Affairs, comprising three municipalities: Abu Dhabi City, Al Ain, and the Western Region.
In 2016, a law established the Department of Municipalities and Transport, succeeding both the Department of Municipal Affairs and the Department of Transport. It became the governing body overseeing all existing and future municipalities.
In 2017, an Amiri Decree appointed His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Chairman of the Executive Council. Subsequently, the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council merged with the Department of Municipal Affairs to form the Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities, placing municipalities under unified supervision.
In 2019, the current Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) was established through the final integration of municipal entities with the transport sector—creating a single authority responsible for urban planning, infrastructure, and mobility across the emirate.
Abu Dhabi City Municipality continues to lead infrastructure development—roads, bridges, transport, and sewer systems—while supporting environmental initiatives and enhancing community well-being. Its services are designed to reflect the leadership’s commitment to sustainable, people-centric development.
The Municipality is a founding member of the General Secretariat of UAE Municipalities and an active member of the Arab Towns Organization and the Organization of Islamic Capitals and Cities.