Abu Dhabi Executive Council has approved development projects worth Dh304 million ($83 million) as part of its plans to boost the infrastructure in the UAE capital, said a report.

One of the major projects that has been given the go-ahead by the council is a Dh74-million preliminary and earthworks contract for the commercial enclave in Medinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi City, reported state news agency Wam.

Saeed Eid Al Ghafli, the chairman of the executive committee at the Council, said the project will be built over an area of 1,500 hectares and is expected to accommodate 300,000 residents, in addition to 325,000 of business staff.

At the council meeting, Al Ghafli also approved the infrastructure works for an intelligent transportation system in Al Ain at a cost of Dh114 million ($31 million), according to the report.

The project aims to improve public safety on the main roads of Al Ain by using intelligent systems for early detection and response to accidents. This will help reduce congestion and subsequent delays, and also minimise emissions.

The committee also approved the design and delivery of a project for issuing housing coupons in Al Qou area of Al Ain, said the Wam report.

A key contract for the renovation and expansion of the existing central suq in Madinat Zayed area was also given the green signal besides the development of public parks in Abu Dhabi, it added.