Saadiyat Bridge Abu Dhabi – One Bridge, Three Construction Methods

The 1,450 meter long Saadiyat Bridge, the emerging landmark which will Link Abu Dhabi city with Saadiyat Island is one of the largest infrastructure projects in Abu Dhabi emirate. It will provide swift and smooth access to the signature destination which is being developed into a complete visitor and residential destination. Developed by

Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), Saadiyat Island (Fig. 1) is the largest single mixed-use development in the Arabian Gulf. Saadiyat Bridge will carry 2 x 5 lanes of vehicular traffic and two tracks of light rail, plus special architectural features were incorporated such as a variable lighting concept which may be adapted to different occasions. Based on site conditions, the originally envisioned construction method was changed and a combination of incremental launching, span-by- span falsework and balanced cantilever construction was used. These three construction methods are presented in this article. Aside from the considerations that led to choosing these three methods, the advantages and disadvantages of each method are explained underlining specifically the economic aspects governing the choice.