Abu Dhabi has entered into a strategic partnership with The Boring Company, the tunneling and infrastructure firm founded by Elon Musk, to explore underground transportation and utility tunnel solutions within the emirate. The agreement was formalized during the Liveability and Investment Exhibition (LIVEX 2026) in Abu Dhabi, with Maysarah Mahmoud Salim Eid, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre (ADPIC), and Steve Davis, President of The Boring Company, signing the deal. Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), was also present at the ceremony.
The collaboration aims to evaluate advanced underground infrastructure options that could enhance connectivity, sustainability, and urban development in Abu Dhabi. Both parties plan to conduct feasibility studies, review delivery and operational frameworks, and exchange expertise to build local capabilities in tunneling and underground construction.
The scope of cooperation includes technical and strategic discussions on underground transportation systems, utility tunnels, and related infrastructure projects. Specific areas of focus will cover tunnel planning, state-of-the-art boring technologies, construction methods, safety protocols, operational maintenance, digital engineering, automation, and comprehensive infrastructure lifecycle management.
Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa highlighted the emirate’s intent to optimize spatial use, improve connectivity, and support urban growth through innovative infrastructure solutions. He emphasized that adopting advanced technologies aligns with Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision to enhance mobility, increase capacity, and create value through more efficient urban development.
Maysarah Mahmoud Salim Eid stated that the partnership would enable Abu Dhabi to assess how underground transport and utility tunnel systems might address future infrastructure demands. She noted that the alliance would benefit from international expertise, innovation, and best practices to meet the emirate’s development priorities.
Steve Davis expressed confidence in Abu Dhabi’s potential as an environment conducive to pioneering underground infrastructure projects. He underscored the growing need for advanced tunneling solutions to manage urban expansion, optimize land use, and support sustainable development goals.
ADPIC currently manages an infrastructure portfolio valued at over $56 billion and facilitated the completion of 100 capital projects in 2025. This new initiative complements Abu Dhabi’s ongoing investments aimed at boosting economic competitiveness, accommodating a rising population, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.