Sdi Data Standard Spatial Reference System, Property PDF

AD-SDI DATA STANDARD
SPATIAL REFERENCE SYSTEM
Version 1.0
December 2010
Prepared by
Abu Dhabi Systems and Information Centre (ADSIC)
Abu Dhabi, UAE
AD-SDI DATA STANDARD, SPATIAL REFERENCE SYSTEM, Version 1.0
REVISION HISTORY
Revision # Reason Effective Date
1 Original Draft November 2009
2 Feedback from different persons December 2009
3 Correction of factual errors March 2010
4 Table 4: Commonly used Horizontal December 2010

Datum in Abu Dhabi is deleted.
DISCUSSION HISTORY
Discussion # With Date Summary
1 Yasser Othman, Dec 17, 2010 Table 4: Commonly used Horizontal

EAD Datum in Abu Dhabi in Section 3.1
that lists the former datum of Nahrwan
1967 could be misinterpreted as a
datum permissible by this Standard.
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Table of Contents
1 Introduction ................................................................................................ 6
1.1 Scope............................................................................................................................ 6
1.2 Purpose ........................................................................................................................ 6
1.3 Application .................................................................................................................. 6
1.4 Symbols, Abbreviations, and Notations ..................................................................... 7
2 Coordinate Systems .................................................................................... 8

2.1 Geographic Coordinate Systems ................................................................................ 8
2.1.1 Ellipsoid .................................................................................................................... 9
2.1.2 Datum ..................................................................................................................... 10
2.2 Projected Coordinate Systems .................................................................................. 11
2.2.1 Map Projections ..................................................................................................... 11
2.2.2 Universal Transverse Mercator Projection........................................................... 12
2.3 Vertical Coordinate Systems .................................................................................... 14
2.3.1 Geoid ...................................................................................................................... 15
2.3.2 Geoid Height .......................................................................................................... 15
2.3.3 Vertical Datum ....................................................................................................... 16
3 Abu Dhabi Spatial Reference System ...................................................... 18

3.1 Coordinate System for Land Area ........................................................................... 18
3.2 Coordinate System for Sea Area .............................................................................. 20
4 Geospatial Positioning Accuracy ............................................................. 20

4.1 Accuracy Standard ................................................................................................... 21
4.2 Positional Accuracy Specifications ........................................................................... 21
4.3 Accuracy Standards for Geodetic Networks ............................................................ 22
4.4 Accuracy Reporting .................................................................................................. 23
4.5 Scale and Level of Detail........................................................................................... 24
5 Appendix A: Reference Frames ............................................................... 26

5.1 International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF)................................................. 26
5.2 International Terrestrial Reference System (ITRS) ................................................ 27
5.3 Alignment of WGS84 Reference Frame with ITRF Reference Frame ................... 27
6 Appendix B: Geodetic Reference Systems ............................................... 29

6.1 Geodetic Control ....................................................................................................... 29
6.2 Geodetic Control Survey .......................................................................................... 29
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6.3 GRS Network of Abu Dhabi ..................................................................................... 29

6.4 Geoid Model .............................................................................................................. 31
6.5 Earth Gravitational Model EGM2008 ..................................................................... 32
6.6 GDEM Data of 30m Resolution ................................................................................ 32
7 Appendix C: Coordinate Transformation ............................................... 33

7.1 Transformation Parameters from ADM .................................................................. 33
7.2 Transformation Parameters from MSD .................................................................. 34
7.3 Limitations of Transformation Parameters ............................................................. 35
8 Appendix D: Geographic Transformation Parameters .......................... 36
References ...................................................................................................... 41
List of Figures
Figure 1: A Geographic Coordinate System ...................................................................... 9
Figure 2: Alignment of Datum with Earths Surface ....................................................... 10
Figure 3: Transverse Mercator Projection ....................................................................... 12
Figure 5: The UTM Grid ................................................................................................ 13
Figure 4: A secant cylinder in a transverse position......................................................... 13
Figure 6: Scale Distortions in UTM ................................................................................ 14
Figure 7: Vertical Coordinate System ............................................................................. 14
Figure 8: Height Measurements ...................................................................................... 16
Figure 9: Emirate of Abu Dhabi spans UTM Zones 39N and 40N................................... 19
Figure 10: GRS Network of Abu Dhabi Emirate ............................................................. 30
List of Tables
Table 1: Abu Dhabi Spatial Reference System ................................................................ 18
Table 2: UTM Parameters ............................................................................................... 19
Table 3: WGS84 Ellipsoid Parameters ............................................................................ 20
Table 4: Positional Accuracy Specifications for Different Products ................................ 25
Table 5: WGS84 Alignment with ITRF .......................................................................... 28
Table 6: Transformation Parameters for Abu Dhabi Island.............................................. 33
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AD-SDI Data Standard
Table 7: Transformation Parameters for Area in Zone 39N ............................................. 34

Table 8: Transformation Parameters for Area in Zone 40N ............................................. 34
Table 9: Geodetic Datums and their Ellipsoids ................................................................ 36
Table 10: Ellipsoid Parameters ....................................................................................... 36
Table 11: Geographic (datum) transformationsGeocentric translation method ............. 36
Table 12: Geographic (datum) transformationsCoordinate frame and position vector (7
parameters) methods ................................................................................................. 37
Table 13: Geographic (datum) TransformationsAreas of Use ...................................... 37
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1 Introduction
The AD-SDI Fundamental Geographic Data Sets contain spatial references that relate the
geographic features represented in the data to positions in the real world. A spatial reference
system (SRS) or coordinate reference system (CRS) is a coordinate-based local, regional or
global system used to locate geographic features. A spatial reference system defines a
specific map projection, as well as transformations between different spatial reference
systems.
1.1 Scope
This document describes spatial referencing by coordinates and the elements that are
necessary to define the AD-SDI standard spatial reference system applicable to geographic
information in Abu Dhabi Emirate. In addition to describing the standard spatial reference
system, this document provides for the description of a coordinate transformation or
coordinate conversion between the current reference standard and the one used earlier.
Using this information, geographic data referred to the two different coordinate reference
systems can be merged together for integrated manipulation.
1.2 Purpose
This AD-SDI Standard provides the description of spatial referencing by coordinates. It
describes the minimum data required to define 1-, 2- and 3-dimensional spatial coordinate
reference systems. It allows additional descriptive information to be provided. It also
describes the information required to change coordinate values from one coordinate reference
system to another.
1.3 Application
This AD-SDI Standard is applicable to producers and users of geographic information.
Although it is applicable to digital geographic data, its principles can be extended to many
other forms of geographic data such as maps, charts, and text documents.
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1.4 Symbols, Abbreviations, and Notations

The following symbols, abbreviations, and notations are applicable to this document.
Compass-Beidou 2 The developing Chinese GNSS
CORS Continuously Operating Reference Station, a system of GNSS receivers

tracking satellites continuously, 24 hours a day
FGDS Fundamental Geographic Data Set
Galileo The emerging European GNSS
GLONASS Globalnaya Navigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema (Russian GNSS)
GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System, the generic term for satellite navigation
systems, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Compass-Beidou 2...
GPS Global Positioning System (American GNSS)
GSD Ground Sample Distance refers to the size of the pixels in a digital
orthoimagery, expressed in ground units. For example, if an orthoimagery has
a 20cm GSD, each pixel represents a ground area measuring 20cm x 20cm.
ITRF International Terrestrial Reference Frame
ITRS International Terrestrial Reference System
LAT Lowest Astronomical Tide
LOD Levels of Detail
Nahrwan 1967 Local horizontal datum of Abu Dhabi Emirate, based on Clarke 1880 ellipsoid
RINEX Receiver Independent Exchange Format enables the fusing together of raw
data from different GNSS instruments
SLR Satellite Laser Ranging
VLBI Very Long Baseline Interferometry
WGS84 World Geodetic System 1984 (the coordinate system used by GPS)
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2 Coordinate Systems
A coordinate system is a spatial reference system used to represent the locations of
geographic features, imagery, and observations such as GPS locations within a common
geographic framework. Coordinate systems enable FGDS datasets to use common locations
for integration. Each coordinate system is defined by:
Its measurement framework:

o either three-dimensional geographic coordinates (latitude-longitude in
decimal degrees, height above ellipsoid in meters)
o or two-dimensional projected (based on a map projection such as UTM)
coordinates (Northing-Easting in meters)
Unit of measurement typically:
o decimal degrees, for geographic coordinate systems
o or meters, for projected coordinate systems
Definition of the map projection used, for projected coordinate systems:
o projection parameters like one or more standard parallels, a central meridian,
and possible shifts in the x and y-directions
Other measurement system properties such as:
o an ellipsoid of reference
o a datum
There are two common types of coordinate systems used in GIS:
A geographic coordinate system such as latitude-longitude

A projected coordinate system based on a map projection such as Universal
Transverse Mercator (UTM), which projects maps of the earth's spherical surface onto
a two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate plane.
Coordinate systems, either geographic or projected, provide a framework for defining real-
world locations. In GIS, the coordinate system is used as the method to automatically
integrate the geographic locations from different datasets into a common coordinate
framework for display and analysis.
2.1 Geographic Coordinate Systems

A geographic coordinate system (GCS) uses a three-dimensional spherical surface to define
locations on the earth. A point is referenced by its longitude and latitude values. Longitude
and latitude are angles measured from the earth's center to a point on the earth's surface. The
angles often are measured in degrees. A GCS includes an angular unit of measure, a prime
meridian, and a datum, which is based on an ellipsoid.
In the spherical system, horizontal lines, or eastwest lines, are lines of equal latitude called
parallels. The vertical lines, or northsouth lines, are lines of equal longitude called
meridians. These latitude and longitude lines encompass the globe and form a gridded
network called a graticule. The line of latitude midway between the poles is called the
equator. It defines the line of zero latitude. The line of zero longitude is called the prime
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meridian. For most geographic coordinate systems, the prime meridian is the longitude that
passes through Greenwich, England.
Figure 1: A Geographic Coordinate System
Latitude and longitude values are traditionally measured either in decimal degrees or in
degrees, minutes, and seconds (DMS). Latitude values are measured relative to the equator
and range from 90 at the South Pole to +90 at the North Pole. Longitude values are
measured relative to the prime meridian. They range from 180 from the left of the prime
meridian to +180 to the right of the prime meridian. It may be helpful to equate longitude
values with X and latitude values with Y.
2.1.1 Ellipsoid
The shape and size of a GCS's surface is defined by an ellipsoid of rotation. An ellipsoid is
defined by the semi major axis, a, and the semi minor axis, b, or by a and the
flattening. The flattening is the difference in length between the two axes expressed as a
fraction or a decimal.
The flattening, f = (a - b) / a.
The simple geometric shape which most closely approximates the shape of the Earth is an
ellipsoid. However, any single ellipsoid shape does not fit the Earth perfectly, and
consequently there are many different ellipsoids in use, each designed to best fit a specific
region. The ellipsoid used for mapping in UAE, the Clarke 1880 ellipsoid, best fits the
Middle East region. The ellipsoids used in different regions differ in size and shape, and also
in their orientation and position relative to the center of the Earth.
With the advent of Global Positioning System (GPS) and for reasons of global compatibility,
instead of using a local best-fitting ellipsoid, the WGS 84 ellipsoid, which is designed to best-
fit the whole Earth, is currently the world standard.
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However, the Clarke 1880 ellipsoid is still important because the national mapping
coordinate systems of many Middle East countries are based on it and consequently lots of
data have been collected by different organizations in the past using the Clarke 1880
ellipsoid.
Appendix D provides the parameters that define the Clarke 1880 and WGS84 ellipsoids.
2.1.2 Datum
A datum specifies the relationship of a coordinate system to the earth thus creating a
coordinate reference system. A datum can be used as the basis for one-, two- or three-
dimensional systems. It is a set of values that defines the position of the ellipsoid relative to
the center of the earth. The datum provides a frame of reference for measuring locations and
defines the origin and orientation of latitude and longitude lines.
Figure 2: Alignment of Datum with Earths Surface
A position on a map is referenced to an imaginary plane surface, the horizontal datum, so

that all positions taken from the map are consistent and accurate. Elevations (for example
depths) on maps are referred to a vertical datum.
While an ellipsoid approximates the shape of the earth, a datum defines the position and
orientation of the ellipsoid relative to the center of the earth. A datum provides a frame of
reference for specifying locations on the surface of the earth. It defines the origin and
orientation of latitude and longitude lines. Whenever the datum (or more correctly, the
geographic coordinate system) is changed, the coordinate values of the data will also change.
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Geocentric datum: In the last three decades, satellite orbit data has provided geodesists with
new measurements to define the best earth-fitting ellipsoid, which relates coordinates to the
earth's center of mass. An earth-centered, or geocentric, datum uses the earth's center of mass
as the origin. The most recently developed and widely used datum is WGS 1984. It serves as
the framework for location measurement worldwide.
Local datum: A local datum positions its ellipsoid to closely fit the earth's surface at a
particular area. A point on the surface of the ellipsoid is matched to a particular position on
the surface of the earth. This point is known as the origin point of the datum. The coordinates
of the origin point are fixed, and all other points are calculated from it. The coordinate system
origin of a local datum is not at the center of the earth. The center of the ellipsoid of a local
datum is offset from the earth's center.
Nahrwan 1967 is a local datum. It is designed to fit the Middle East region reasonably well.
Because a local datum aligns its ellipsoid to a particular area on the earth's surface, it is not
suitable for use outside the area for which it was designed.
2.2 Projected Coordinate Systems

A projected coordinate system is defined on a flat, two-dimensional surface. Unlike a
geographic coordinate system, a projected coordinate system has constant lengths, angles,
and areas across the two dimensions. A projected coordinate system is always based on a
geographic coordinate system, which is based on an ellipsoid.
In a projected coordinate system, locations are identified by x,y coordinates on a grid, with
the origin at the center of the grid. Each position has two values that reference it to that
central location. One specifies its horizontal position and the other its vertical position. The
two values are called the x-coordinate and y-coordinate. Using this notation, the coordinates
at the origin are x = 0 and y = 0.
2.2.1 Map Projections

Because the earth is three-dimensional and maps are two-dimensional, getting information
from a curved 3D surface to a flat 2D one involves a mathematical formula called a map
projection, or simply a projection. This process of flattening the 3D earth will cause
distortions in one or more of the metric properties, viz. Distance, Area, Shape, and Direction.
No projection can preserve all these properties; as a result, all flat maps distort to some
degree. There are many different map projections, each distinguished by:
Its suitability for representing a particular part and amount of the earth's surface
Its ability to preserve the metric properties of distance, area, shape, or direction
Different projections cause different types of distortions. Some projections are designed to
minimize the distortion of one or two of the metric properties. A projection could maintain
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the area of a feature but distort its shape. Depending upon which properties are most
important for a particular need an appropriate map projection is chosen.
Because maps are flat, some of the simplest projections are made onto geometric shapes that
can be flattened without stretching their surfaces. Some common examples are cones,
cylinders, and planes. Many common map projections are classified according to the
projection surface used: conic, cylindrical, or planar. A Mercator projection is created using a
cylinder tangent at the equator. A Transverse Mercator projection is created using a cylinder
that is tangent at a selected meridian.
Figure 3: Transverse Mercator Projection
Map projections are designed for specific purposes. One map projection might be used for
large-scale data in a limited area, while another is used for a small-scale map of a much larger
area.
2.2.2 Universal Transverse Mercator Projection

The Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinate system is a grid-based method of
specifying locations on the surface of the Earth. The UTM system is not a single map
projection. The system instead employs a series of sixty longitude zones, each of which is
based on a specifically defined Transverse Mercator projection. The projection uses a
transverse cylinder, secant to the reference surface, as shown in the figure.
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The UTM system divides the surface of the Earth between 80 S latitude and 84 N latitude
into 60 zones, each spanning 6 of longitude in width. Each zone has its own central
meridian. Zone 1 is bounded by longitude 180 to 174 W and is centered on the 177th West
meridian. Zone numbering increases in an easterly direction.
Figure 4: A secant cylinder in a transverse position
Figure 5: The UTM Grid
UTMs effect on metric properties

The distortions caused by the UTM projection on the different metric properties are described below:
Shape: Small shapes are accurately represented. For larger shapes, within each UTM
zone, there is minimal distortion.
Area: There is minimal distortion within each UTM zone.
Direction: The local angles are true.
Distance: The scale is constant along the central meridian. A scale factor of 0.9996 is
used to reduce lateral distortion within each zone. With this scale factor, lines lying
180 km east and west of and parallel to the central meridian have a scale factor of one.
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Limitations of UTM
UTM projection is capable of mapping a region of large north-south extent with a low
amount of distortion. It is designed for a scale error not exceeding 0.1 percent within each
zone. By using narrow zones of 6 longitude (668 km at equator) in width, and the secant
map surface, the amount of distortion is held below 1 part in 1,000 inside each zone. There
are two standard lines, or lines of true scale in each zone, located approximately 180 km on
either side of, and approximately parallel to, the central meridian. The scale factor is less than
1 inside these lines and greater than 1 outside of these lines, but the overall distortion of scale
inside the entire zone is minimized.
Figure 6: Scale Distortions in UTM
2.3 Vertical Coordinate Systems

A vertical coordinate system (VCS) defines a reference system for measuring height or depth
values. An important part of a VCS is its unit of measure, which is always linear (e.g.
meters). Depending on whether the z values represent heights (elevations) or depths, the z-
axis direction is positive up for elevations or down for depths. In the figure below, there
are two vertical coordinate systems: mean sea level and mean low water. Mean sea level is
used as the zero level for height values. Mean low water is used as the zero level for depth
values.
Figure 7: Vertical Coordinate System
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One z value is shown for the height-based mean sea level system. Any point that falls below
the mean sea level line, but is referenced to it, will have a negative z value. Two z values are
shown for the mean low water system. Because the mean low water system is depth-based,
the z values shown are positive. Any point that falls above the mean low water line, but is
referenced to it, will have a negative z value.
2.3.1 Geoid
The geoid is the equi-potential surface of the Earth's gravity field which best fits, in a least
squares sense, global mean sea level. The surface would coincide exactly with the mean
ocean surface of the Earth, if the oceans were in equilibrium, and extended through the
continents with narrow canals. It is described as the true physical figure of the Earth, in
contrast to the idealized geometrical figure of a reference ellipsoid. Being an equi-potential
surface, the geoid is by definition a surface to which the force of gravity is everywhere
perpendicular. Since the mass of the Earth is not uniform, the direction of gravity changes,
and therefore the shape of the geoid is irregular.
Because of non-periodic changes in sea level (like a persistent rise in sea level, for example)
the "mean sea level" changes in time, and therefore the geoid also changes in time.
The geoid is influenced by the composition of the earth, so it may have discontinuities in its
slope. This means that the surface is an analytic surface as opposed to a mathematical surface
like an ellipsoid.
2.3.2 Geoid Height

The orthometric height (H) of a point on the Earth's surface is the distance from the geoid
reference surface to the point, measured along the plumb line, normal to the geoid. Ellipsoid
heights (h) are referenced to a reference ellipsoid. The ellipsoid height of a point is the
distance from the reference ellipsoid to the point, measured along the line which is normal to
the ellipsoid.
At the same point on the surface of the earth, the difference between the ellipsoid height and
the orthometric height is defined as the geoid height (N). The reference surface which is
everywhere level is the geoid. To ensure that the relative height of two points A and B
correctly indicates the gradient between them, the height must be measured as the distance
between the ground and the geoid, not the ellipsoid. This measurement is called 'orthometric
height'.
In the following figure:
h = ellipsoidal height, measured from ellipsoid along perpendicular passing through

point
H = orthometric height, measured along direction of gravity from vertical datum plane
at geoid
N = geoid height, height of geoid above ellipsoid
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Figure 8: Height Measurements
The relationship between ellipsoid height h and orthometric height H is:

h = H + N, where N is the Geoid-ellipsoid separation.
Because the Geoid is a complex surface, N varies in a complex way depending on latitude
and longitude. A look-up table of N for any particular latitude and longitude is called a Geoid
model. A Geoid model is required to convert ellipsoid height to orthometric height and vice-
versa.
The height calculated by GPS receivers is the ellipsoidal height. To display the orthometric
height, GPS receivers store a lookup table of geoid separation values. Unfortunately, due to
storage constraints on the GPS receiver, these geoid separations are not the most accurate.
2.3.3 Vertical Datum

A VCS can be referenced to two different types of surfaces: ellipsoidal or geoidal (gravity-
related). Most vertical coordinate systems are geoidal. A geoidal vertical coordinate system is
often only loosely connected to a particular geographic coordinate system. Any particular
vertical coordinate system may be used with different horizontal coordinate systems. A
geoidal VCS may set its zero point through a local mean sea level or a benchmark. Mean sea
level will vary at different places due to topography, atmospheric effects, etc. A geoidal VCS
will include a vertical datum as part of its definition.
An ellipsoidal VCS defines heights that are referenced to ellipsoid of a GCS. A GPS unit
natively reports heights relative to the WGS84 ellipsoid. An on-board geoid model in the
GPS unit converts the ellipsoidal heights to geoid elevations. An ellipsoidal height is a
geometry quantity and does not have a physical sense, as a geographic coordinate systems
ellipsoid may fall above or below the actual earth surface. Ellipsoidal heights for an area may
not reflect movement due to gravity, that is, the flow of water. Water can run uphill when
working with ellipsoidal heights.
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A VCS with heights or depths that are referenced to the ellipsoid will include a datum, rather
than a vertical datum definition.
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3 Abu Dhabi Spatial Reference System

The Spatial Reference System (SRS) for Abu Dhabi is a consistent national coordinate
system that specifies latitude, longitude, height, scale, gravity, and orientation throughout the
Abu Dhabi Emirate, as well as how these values change with time. The SRS consists of the
following components:
A consistent, accurate, and up-to-date national shoreline
GPS Reference Station Network, a set of Continuously Operating GPS Reference
Stations
A network of permanently marked geodetic control points
A set of accurate models describing dynamic geophysical processes affecting spatial
measurements
The SRS provides a highly accurate, precise, and consistent geographic reference framework
throughout the Emirate. It is a key foundation for the AD- SDI.
3.1 Coordinate System for Land Area
The parameters that define the coordinate systems for the land area in Abu Dhabi are
provided below:
Table 1: Abu Dhabi Spatial Reference System
Measurement Framework Unit of Measurement Measurement System Properties
Spherical: Angular: Decimal Ellipsoid: WGS84

degrees
Geographic Coordinate Horizontal Datum: WGS84
System (GCS) (ITRF2000.0)
Longitude and Latitude Vertical Datum: Ras Ghumays
Projected: Linear: Meters Ellipsoid: WGS84

Universal Transverse Horizontal Datum: WGS84
Mercator (UTM) (ITRF2000.0)
Zones 39N and 40N
Vertical Datum: Ras Ghumays
Easting and Northing
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Abu Dhabi Emirate falls in UTM Zones 39N and 40N. Al Gharbia Municipality has 75%
area in Zone 39N and 25% area in Zone 40N. Abu Dhabi Municipality has 3.5% area in Zone
39N and 96.5% area in Zone 40N. Al Ain Municipality is completely in Zone 40N.
Figure 9: Emirate of Abu Dhabi spans UTM Zones 39N and 40N
Table 2: UTM Parameters
Zone False False Longitude Latitude Scale Factor at West East Edge
Easting Northing of Central of Grid Central Edge of of Zone
(meters) (meters) Meridian Origin Meridian Zone
UTM 39N 500000.000 0.000 51 00 00 00 00 00 0.999600000000 48 00 00 54 00 00
UTM 40N 500000.000 0.000 57 00 00 00 00 00 0.999600000000 54 00 00 60 00 00
False easting is a linear value applied to the origin of the x coordinates.
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False northing is a linear value applied to the origin of the y coordinates.

Longitude of Central meridian origin defines the origin of the xcoordinates.
Latitude of origin defines the origin of the ycoordinates.
Table 3: WGS84 Ellipsoid Parameters
Semi-major axis a = 6378137.000 meters
Semi-minor axis b = 6356752.31424 meters
Flattening f = 1/298.257223563
3.2 Coordinate System for Sea Area

A vertical coordinate system has an associated vertical datum. The zero point of the vertical
axis is defined by a surface that has meaning for the purpose for which the associated vertical
measurements are used. For hydrographic charts, this is often a predicted nominal sea surface
(that is, without waves or other wind and current effects) which occurs at low tide. An
example is the Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT).
The Vertical Datum used in Abu Dhabi for producing nautical charts is the LAT. This is the
zero value from which all tides and depths are measured. LAT has been calculated as the
lowest possible tide that could occur due to astronomical influences - therefore a negative tide
which falls below 0 m (zero meters) should be a rare occurrence. The horizontal datum for all
nautical charts is WGS84.
In order to make the marine geospatial data of Abu Dhabi interoperable with the other FGDS
data sets, there is a plan to make the land-based Ras Ghumays vertical datum homogeneous
with the marine areas. This homogenization will facilitate:
Bathymetry mapping seamless with Topography mapping
More efficient collection of hydrographic data
Ellipsoidal heights to be used for marine navigation
Exploitation of new remote sensing technologies
Automated extraction of shoreline
4 Geospatial Positioning Accuracy

Positional accuracy is defined as the location accuracy of features in the geospatial data as
measured horizontally and vertically. Positional accuracy tells us that when we see a feature
on the map, there is known probable location within certain limits. For example, if the stated
horizontal positional accuracy for geospatial data is +/- 20 cm, the true location of that
feature on the ground will be within 20 cm of the location given on the map. The same
applies to vertical positional accuracy. If the stated vertical positional accuracy were stated
to be +/- 30 cm, then the height of the feature will be within 30 cm of the true vertical
position on the ground. Accuracy standards require stated accuracy to be within a 95%
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confidence level, meaning that of the points tested, 95% should fall within the stated
accuracy.
4.1 Accuracy Standard

All spatial data activities should develop a classification scheme following the standard given
below. The standard for reporting positional accuracy is defined for horizontal and/or vertical
coordinates, depending on the characteristics of the data sets. The reporting accuracy standard
should be defined in metric units.
Horizontal: The reporting standard in the horizontal component is the radius of a circle of
uncertainty, such that the true or theoretical location of the point falls within that circle 95%
of the time.
Vertical: The reporting standard in the vertical component is a linear uncertainty value, such
that the true or theoretical location of the point falls within +/- of that linear uncertainty value
95% of the time.
The method used to evaluate accuracy should be described. Examples include statistical
testing, least squares adjustment results, comparison with values of higher accuracy, repeat
measurements, estimation, etc. The accuracy standard for point data in each part of the
document will identify the type of application and if applicable, the accuracy level
recommended for that application.
4.2 Positional Accuracy Specifications

Because geospatial data can be easily manipulated and reproduced at multiple scales and
output formats, a statistical and testing methodology is specified for estimating the positional
accuracy of points on maps and in digital geospatial data. This methodology uses Root Mean
Square Error (RMSE) as a metric for positional accuracy of geospatial data. RMSE is defined
as the square root of the average of the set of squared differences between dataset coordinate
values and coordinate values from an independent source of higher accuracy for identical
points.
The accuracy standard recommends that at least 20 well-defined test points be tested. Well-
defined test points are points in the geospatial data that can be easily identified on the map
and the ground. Using 20 points, a 95% confidence level allows one point out of the 20 to fail
the parameters of the set accuracy specifications. This technique also calls for use of an
independent source of higher accuracy for the geospatial data to be tested by.
Absolute and Relative Accuracies

Absolute or external accuracy is the closeness of reported coordinate values to values
accepted as or being true.
Relative or internal accuracy is the closeness of the relative positions of features within a
dataset. The relative positional accuracy is the positional accuracy of one feature relative to
another feature in the same dataset at the 95% confidence level. This relative positional
accuracy should be half of the absolute positional accuracy.
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This is different from the relative positional accuracy of a feature in one data set with
respect to a feature in another dataset, as in the case of a utility feature (a fire hydrant)
relative to a basemap feature (its distance from a building). For example, the location of a
water utility feature such as a fire hydrant or a valve may be determined in relation to its
distance from a building or from a road edge. The relative positional accuracy, say of utility
features relative to the basemap features, should be better than the absolute positional
accuracy of basemap features.
Positional Accuracy for Orthoimagery
For orthoimagery, it should register with surface data to allow for 3D visualization and to
facilitate co-registration of vector data having comparable or better accuracy than the
imagery. Orthoimagery should register with data overlays having a relative precision to
within one to three ground resolution elements. Absolute spatial accuracy specified for
orthoimagery in populated regions is two ground resolution elements horizontally and twice
this level vertically, with accuracy in rural areas up to twice these levels.
The positional accuracy of well defined objects scattered over the image surface shall be 1.5
times the positional accuracy in the vector data of the same quality range (FGD-A or FGD-
B). The relative positional accuracy of the orthoimagery to the vector map shall be 0.5 times
the accuracy in the vector data of the same quality range (FGDA or FGD-B).
The accuracy is measured as a Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE). First, the distance between
the position of features in the orthophoto and the ground survey is measured. The RMSE is
calculated by squaring the discrepancies, averaging the squared values, and taking the square
root of that average.
4.3 Accuracy Standards for Geodetic Networks

The standards for Geodetic Networks have the following characteristics:
There are two accuracy standards, namely, Local accuracy (for adjacent points) and
Network accuracy (relative to CORS)
The accuracy standards are specified in numeric quantities, in units of cm (or mm).
Both accuracy standards are relative accuracy measures and do not use distance
dependent expression.
The accuracies are specified separately for horizontal, ellipsoidal, and orthometric
height. The Horizontal accuracies are radius of 2-D 95% error circle and the
Ellipsoidal/Orthometric Height accuracies are 1-D (linear) 95% error.
Local Accuracy: The local accuracy of a control point is a number, expressed in centimeters,
that represents the uncertainty, at the 95% confidence level, in the coordinates of this control
point relative to the coordinates of other directly connected, adjacent control points. The
reported local accuracy is an approximate average of the individual local accuracy values
between this control point and other observed control points used to establish the coordinates
of the control point. Extremely high or low individual local accuracies are not considered in
computing the average local accuracy of a control point.
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Network Accuracy: The network accuracy of a control point is a number, expressed in

centimeters, that represents the uncertainty in the coordinates, at the 95% confidence level, of
this control point with respect to the geodetic datum. For network accuracy classification, the
datum is considered to be best expressed by the geodetic values at the GRS network. By this
definition, the local and network accuracy values at the GRS network sites are considered to
be infinitesimal, i.e., to approach zero.
These Geodetic Accuracy standards are distinctive for the following reasons:
This is both a local accuracy standard AND a network accuracy standard.
Both are stated as numeric quantities in centimeters or millimeters.
The standards do NOT use distance dependent expression.
The standards define separate accuracy measures for horizontal, ellipsoid height, and
orthometric height.
Local and network accuracies are computed for all points (new, old, benchmarks,
terrestrial, GPS ).
Accuracy bands or ranges are provided for specifications, and NOT for standards.
Geodetic Network accuracy is specified with respect to CORS sites.
The Local accuracy is an average of observation accuracy to directly connected
points.
Individual observational accuracies are provided for each directly connected point in
a box score.
Vertical accuracy is at linear (1-D) 95% confidence level.
Horizontal accuracy is at 2-D, 95% circular error confidence level.
Network accuracies for new survey points from adjustments with weighted
constraints at the old points.
Weights of constraints use published 1-sigma network accuracies of old control.
4.4 Accuracy Reporting

Spatial data may be compiled to comply with one accuracy value for the vertical component
and another for the horizontal component. If a dataset does not contain elevation data, label
for horizontal accuracy only. Conversely, when a dataset, e.g. a gridded digital elevation
dataset or elevation contour dataset, does not contain well-defined points, label for vertical
accuracy only.
A dataset may contain themes or geographic areas that have different accuracies. Below are
guidelines for reporting accuracy of a composite dataset:
If data of varying accuracies can be identified separately in a dataset, compute and
report separate accuracy values.
If data of varying accuracies are composited and cannot be separately identified AND
the dataset is tested, report the accuracy value for the composited data.
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If a composited dataset is not tested, report the accuracy value for the least accurate
dataset component.
Positional accuracy values shall be reported in ground distances. The number of significant
places for the accuracy value shall be equal to the number of significant places for the dataset
point coordinates. Accuracy reporting in ground distances allows users to directly compare
datasets of differing scales or resolutions. A simple statement of conformance (or omission,
when a map or dataset is nonconforming) is not adequate in itself. Measures based on map
characteristics, such as publication scale or contour interval, are no longer adequate when
data can be readily manipulated and output to any scale or to different data formats.
For digital geospatial data, report the accuracy value in digital geospatial metadata, as
appropriate to dataset spatial characteristics:
(Data_Quality_Information/Positional_Accuracy/Horizontal_Positional_Accuracy/Ho
rizontal_Positional_Accuracy_Assessment/Horizontal_Positional_Accuracy_Value)
and/or
(Data_Quality_Information/Positional_Accuracy/Vertical_Positional_Accuracy/Verti
cal_Positional_Accuracy_Assessment/Vertical_Positional_Accuracy_Value)
Part 2, Data Quality Information, of Metadata Content Standard adopts five elements of data
quality: lineage, positional accuracy, attribute accuracy, logical consistency, and
completeness. Consequently, positional accuracy reported according to Geospatial
Positioning Accuracy Standards will be encoded in Metadata.
ISO Technical Committee (TC) 211 Geographic Information/Geomatics Standards

ISO Standard 15046-13, Geographic Information - Quality Principles defines a data quality
model and identifies positional accuracy as a data quality element and various sub-elements
of positional accuracy. It provides a means of measuring how well the data set maps
geospatial phenomena according to its product specification.
ISO Standard 15046-14, Geographic Information - Quality - Evaluation Procedures provides
data quality evaluation models for both data producers and data users. The procedures are
used to determine data quality results consistent with the data quality model defined by ISO
Standard 15046-13. They establish a framework to report data quality results in metadata and
when necessary, in a separate data quality report.
4.5 Scale and Level of Detail

With the availability of digital geospatial data, the map-dependent measures of accuracy,
such as publication scale and contour interval, are not fully applicable since the data can be
readily manipulated and output to any scale. Although digital data is scale independent, scale
is still an important issue for both data producers and users and so needs to be addressed in
data specifications by identifying the Levels of Detail (LOD) or scale resolution: large scale,
medium scale, and small scale. FGDS data sets are consistent to the scale or pixel size -
resolution - used to represent the features contained within each dataset. Although some of
the smaller scales and resolutions may represent data that have been generalized from a more
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detailed source, in most cases these terms are used to reflect the relative level of source detail
from which the data are captured, sensed, or generated. The terms larger scale or higher
resolution will invariably be used to reflect a greater level of detail; and smaller scale, a
relatively larger area and less detail. Spatial features become more detailed with increasing
LOD regarding both their geometry and thematic differentiation. The process of
generalization of features at higher LOD allows the representation of aggregated features
over smaller scales.
Table 4: Positional Accuracy Specifications for Different Products

Area Type Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 (Desert &
(City) (Township) (Agricultural) Mountain)
Description Developed areas Township, villages, Farm land, Desert areas with
with multiple high- settlements, industrial scattered populated little or no
rise buildings, new areas, and defined areas, and areas population, or
development areas, development areas with scattered Mountainous areas
and areas of special buildings
importance
Level of Detail Very high High Medium Low
Raw Imagery Aerial 8 cm Aerial 16 cm Satellite 50 cm Satellite 1 m
GSD
Nominal Photo Scale >= 1:5,000 >= 1:10,000 NA NA
Vector Data < 0.20 m < 0.25 m < 1.10 m < 1.10 m
Std. Dev. (X,Y)
Std. Dev.(Height) < 0.30 m < 0.35 m < 1.50 m < 1.50 m
DEM Data < 0.25 m < 0.35 m < 1.50 m < 1.50 m
Spot Heights
Other Points < 0.35 m < 0.45 m < 2.50 m < 2.50 m
Orthoimagery 10 cm 20 cm 50 cm 1m
GSD
Positional Accuracy < 0.30 m < 0.375 <1m <2m
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5 Appendix A: Reference Frames

A spatial reference frame refers to a coordinate system or set of axes by which we can
measure the position, the orientation, and other properties of objects in it. A Spatial
Reference Frame is the physical realization of a Spatial Reference System. It is usually a
network of monumented points established using geodetic survey techniques. The frame is
defined using the published coordinates. New realizations and versions of the frame are
developed as technology evolves.
There are two main reference frames commonly used in the world today:
International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) determined by the International
Association of Geodesy (IAG)
WGS84 reference frame, computed by US Department of Defense
The ITRF is important to us for two reasons. Firstly, we can use ITRF stations equipped with
permanent GPS receivers as reference points of known coordinates to precisely coordinate
our own GPS stations, using GPS data downloaded from the Internet. Secondly, we can
obtain precise satellite positions in the ITRF2000 Terrestrial Reference Frame (TRF), which
are not subject to the deliberate degradation of selective availability. The International GPS
Service on the Internet provides both these vital geodetic services free.
5.1 International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF)

The ITRF is an alternative realization of WGS84 Reference Frame that is produced by
International Earth Rotation Service (IERS). It includes many more stations than used in
other realizations - more than 500 stations at 290 sites all over the world. Four different space
positioning methods contribute to the ITRF: Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI),
Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR), GPS and Doppler Ranging Integrated on Satellite (DORIS).
Each has strengths and weaknesses - their combination produces a strong multi-purpose
Terrestrial Reference Frame (TRF). ITRF was created by the civil GPS community, quite
independently of the US military organizations.
Each version of the ITRF is given a year code to identify it - the current version is ITRF2005.
UAE uses ITRF2000. ITRF is simply a list of coordinates (X Y and Z in meters) and
velocities (dX, dY and dZ in meters per year) of each station in the TRF, together with the
estimated level of error in those values. The coordinates relate to the time 2000.0 - to obtain
the coordinates of a station at any other time, the station velocity is applied appropriately.
This is to cope with the effects of tectonic plate motion. ITRF2000 is available as a SINEX
format text file from the IERS Internet web site (www.iers.org).
The datum realized by the ITRF is actually called ITRS (International Terrestrial Reference
System) rather than WGS84. There used to be a difference between the two, but they have
been progressively brought together and are now so similar that they can be assumed
identical for almost all purposes. Because the ITRF is of higher quality than the military
WGS84 TRF, the WGS84 datum now effectively takes its definition from ITRS. Therefore,
although in principle the broadcast TRF is the principal realization of WGS84, in practice
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ITRF has become the more important Terrestrial Reference Frame because it has proven to be
the most accurate global TRF ever constructed.
5.2 International Terrestrial Reference System (ITRS)

The International Terrestrial Reference System (ITRS) constitutes a set of prescriptions and
conventions together with the modeling required to define origin, scale, orientation and time
evolution of a Conventional Terrestrial Reference System (CTRS). The ITRS is realized by
the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) based upon estimated coordinates and
velocities of a set of stations observed by Very Long Base-Line Interferometry (VLBI), LLR,
GPS, Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR), and DORIS. The ITRS Centre is responsible for the
maintenance of ITRS and ITRF, including network coordination. (http://itrf.ensg.ign.fr/)
Precise geodetic measuring techniques for long base lines use, for example, Satellite Laser
Ranging (SLR) and Very Long Base-Line Interferometry (VLBI) as well as differential GPS
measurement. Techniques available guarantee a precision of 1-3 cm over distances up to
about 5000 km. Global networks of such stations are observing continuously. Since 1987, a
new International Earth Rotation Service (IERS), based in Paris, France, is operating
making use of these observations and producing every year a new global set of x, y, z-
coordinates.
The ITRS is maintained by the IERS and the realization of the ITRS is the International
Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF). In 2003, IERS was renamed to International Earth
Rotation and Reference Systems Service.
Plate tectonic movement was incorporated in that coordinate system using results of recent
measurements and a global geophysical model. Thus, it is a model with changing coordinates
due to movements of tectonic plates on which the ground stations are located. However, this
reference system provides the fundamental position of the Earth to within 10 cm and the
orientation of the axes to correspondingly high accuracies.
While WGS 84 is fixed, the maintenance of a datum at the higher level of accuracy of the
ITRS requires constant monitoring of the rotation of the Earth, the motion of the pole and the
movement of the plates of the crust of the Earth, on which the ground stations are located.
5.3 Alignment of WGS84 Reference Frame with ITRF Reference Frame

The WGS84 Reference Frame has been refined on several occasions since its inception and is
now aligned with the ITRF at the level of a few centimeters*. For most people it is
impossible to obtain a WGS84 position with an accuracy of better than a few meters, but it is
now relatively easy to obtain ITRF positions with an accuracy of a few centimeters using
GRS network. If accurate WGS84 positions are required, it is best to use ITRF positions.
The WGS84 (G1150) Reference Frame, after the adjustment of a best fitting 7-parameter
transformation and accounting for epoch differences (ITRF2000 is referenced to epoch
1997.0), comp
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ared to ITRF2000 shows a RMS difference of one centimeter per component. This indicates
that these two reference frames are essentially identical with differences being statistically
insignificant for most applications.
The main difference between ITRF and WGS84 reference frameworks is the choice of fixed
stations used in their adjustments. The difference between ITRF 2000 and WGS84 is very
small, generally less than 10 millimeters.
The original WGS84 was realigned to ITRF by shifting and reorienting, to achieve greater
accuracy and stability, as well as to be compatible with internationally adopted ITRF. The
estimated accuracy of WGS84 Reference Frame compared to ITRF is shown in RMS
difference per component.
Table 5: WGS84 Alignment with ITRF
Version Aligned With Implemented On Estimated Accuracy
WGS84 (G1150) ITRF2000 20 January 2002 1 cm
WGS84 (G873) ITRF94 29 January 1997 5 cm
WGS84 (G730) ITRF91 29 June 1994 10 cm
The G indicates that GPS measurements were used to obtain the coordinates. The number
following the G indicates the GPS week number of the week during which the coordinates
were implemented in the GPS precise ephemeris estimation process.
ITRF is an Earth-centered datum, with origin at the earths centre, and tied to the earths
polar axis. Hence, coordinates of all points on the earths surface slowly change over time as
the continents drift in different directions. The epoch or time attached to an ITRF
coordinate means these were the coordinates of the point on this specific day. ITRF is the
standard datum used by the worlds scientific community, as it is the only system that ties
together coordinates in different countries into one unified system.
The WGS-84 datum used by the GPS system itself is also regularly updated in order to
minimize the difference between it and ITRF. This was last done in early 2002. The current
offset between WGS-84 and ITRF2000 (Current Epoch) is around a couple of centimeters.
Generally, for most non- precision applications using GPS this error is of no consequence.
It may be noted that the ITRF2005 datum was introduced in February 2008. The real-world
difference between ITRF2000 and ITRF2005 is in the order of 10-15mm.
* Addendum to NIMA TR 8350.2: Implementation of the World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84) Reference Frame G1150
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6 Appendix B: Geodetic Reference Systems

If we are to give an object an unequivocal mathematical position on Earth, a geodetic
reference frame is needed. This is an affine reference frame whose centre is close to that of
Earths masses, its first two axes being in the equatorial plane and the third near the polar
axis. Thus every point on the Earths surface can be given coordinates in this reference frame
its concrete, digital form is called a geodetic system.
6.1 Geodetic Control

Geodetic Control is a set of points on the surface of the Earth, the positions of which have
been accurately determined using surveying and computing techniques that take into account
the Earths curvature, topography, gravity field and atmosphere.
Geodetic control points are usually permanent physical monuments placed in the ground and
precisely marked, located, and documented. However, a suitable natural or manmade feature
may also serve as the physical point. The positions of geodetic control points are described by
geodetic coordinates.
Geodetic control points are usually related to each other through the development of a
geodetic control network that serves as the foundation for map and survey data registration
and integration.
6.2 Geodetic Control Survey

Geodetic control surveys are usually performed to establish a basic control network
(framework of known point locations) from which supplemental surveying and mapping
work is performed. Geodetic network surveys are distinguished by use of redundant,
interconnected, permanently monumented control points that comprise the framework for the
Spatial Reference System of Abu Dhabi.
Geodetic control provides a common reference system for establishing coordinates for all
geographic data. All AD-SDI FGDS data and users applications data require geodetic
control to accurately register spatial data. The Spatial Reference System is the fundamental
geodetic control for Abu Dhabi Emirate.
6.3 GRS Network of Abu Dhabi

The GPS Reference Stations Network (GRS Network) for Abu Dhabi Emirate was
established in 2008 and covers the whole Abu Dhabi emirate. It consists of 20 reference
stations that are continuously operating. The separating distances between stations (baseline
lengths) range between 60 km to 209 km. The figure illustrates the network distribution and
separating distances between stations. The stations send their raw GNSS data (both GPS and
GLONASS) through dedicated communications line to the main processing centre, located in
Abu Dhabi Municipality. The control centre monitors the reference stations, processes the
data, generates corrections, and handles communications with users.
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Figure 10: GRS Network of Abu Dhabi Emirate
Three stations from a similar system of Dubai Municipality are connected to GRS Network to
increase data redundancy and to maintain homogeneity of the reference system within these
two Emirates.
For GRS Network establishment, Leica Geosystems dual frequency GPS receivers are used
with Leica choke-ring antennas. The GRS system works using Leica GNSS Spider Software
as well as Geo++ Software as system back up.
GRS Network is computed and adjusted in the ITRF 2000.0 and ITRF 2005.0 by a reputable
international organization using Bernese GPS Software Version 5.0. The computation was
made using 10 nearest (radius up to 4000 km) IGS stations. These results of network
computation are of high precision and reliability. A relative accuracy of 10 mm horizontally
and 15 mm vertically is achieved, although this also depends on actual monument stability.
The GRS Network provides Real Time Kinematic GPS services around the clock for all
customers based on a free-of-charge subscription (subject to be change any time). The GRS
Network is also equipped with Leica SpiderWeb software, which allows provision of
additional services such as a constant overview of file availability and data quality, as well as
RINEX file upload for automatic coordinate computation in post processing mode for remote
users.
Estimated positional accuracy of points surveyed using the RTK service is about 3-5 cm
depending on the location of points, distance from the stations and the observation technique
used. The data of GPS observations in RINEX format is available for all the stations and can
be downloaded for post processing computation of GPS observations.
The GRS Network removes the issue of network design from the users domain. Instead, data
from permanent GPS networks are available, thus enabling a user to simply add in an
unknown point to the existing network. From an operational point of view, this approach
represents a significant saving in time and costs to the user. The need for a second reference
receiver is eliminated, as is the necessity of physically occupying a wide array of reference
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marks, greatly reducing the time required to collect sufficient data to compute accurate
coordinates in the required datum.
6.4 Geoid Model
Geoid modeling is the representation of the geoid with respect to a reference ellipsoid. The
separation between the geoid and the reference ellipsoid is the geoid height (N). The
reliability of the geoid model will depend on the accuracy and horizontal resolution (spacing)
of the geoid heights. A geoid model enables conversion of ellipsoidal heights to orthometric
heights. There are two types of geoid models:
geopotential model based on gravity measurements: the accuracy of this model
depends on the density of such measurements, accuracy of DTM, assumptions made
of mean specific weight of soil etc.
geometric model based on ellipsoidal heights of benchmarks obtained by GNSS
measurements: the accuracy of this model depends on point density and accuracy of
ellipsoidal and orthometric heights.
A geoid model is required to deduce emirate wide orthometric heights at centimeter accuracy,
while ellipsoidal heights are measured with GNSS.
Height Modernization is a series of activities designed to advance and promote the
determination of elevations by GPS surveying, rather than by spirit leveling. It includes
research and development activities seeking to improve the determination of geometric
elevations by GPS surveys as well as activities seeking to improve the determination of geoid
height. It includes activities leading to improved height determination both for the static
surveyor and for the moving navigator.
In order to produces a practical emirate-wide network of orthometric height control
appropriate for most geodetic / surveying needs, the vertical ellipsoidal control based on the
Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) of GRS network can be used. Projects
requiring higher accuracy do not need an emirate-wide accurate orthometric control system;
instead, local orthometric islands of higher accuracy can be used. The datum for a local
orthometric island can be determined using a benchmark, the orthometric height of which can
be deduced using this technique.
The vertical ellipsoidal control could be based on the permanent GRS Network that
constitutes the first order of 3D control. Densification of the first-order control is
recommended only according to needs, since GNSS accuracy depends on the length of
baselines and longer measuring sessions, especially in the vertical direction. The accuracy of
the second-order network could be 1cm, and that of the third-order 2cm, relative to the
nominal heights of permanent GRS Network stations. An accuracy of about 2.5 cm between
benchmarks 1km apart (that is 25 ppm) is required for orthometric control of fourth-order.
The accuracy required for large-scale topographic mapping as well as for most engineering
works is generally less than 1 cm, in orthometric height difference between two points 100
meters apart, yielding a relative accuracy of 100 ppm.
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To estimate the accuracy of the orthometric height differences it is necessary to carry out
trials using the recently released worldwide geopotential model EGM2008 and the MSD
geoid model.
6.5 Earth Gravitational Model EGM2008

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) has publicly released the official Earth
Gravitational Model EGM2008 on April 17, 2008. Before EGM08, the global model of
choice for many applications was EGM96. While EGM96 was capable of supporting geoid
determination with an average accuracy of about +/- 50 centimeters and a nominal resolution
of 30 minutes of arc (55 kilometers at equator), the EGM08 can support geoid determination
with an average accuracy better than +/- 15 centimeters and a nominal resolution of 5 minutes
of arc (9.3 kilometers at equator). That is, EGM08 provides more than three times higher
accuracy at six times higher resolution, compared to EGM96. It also has the advantage that a
single model can be used to support an extremely wide variety of applications.
The EGM08 data can be downloaded from:
http://earth-info.nga.mil/GandG/wgs84/gravitymod/egm2008/index.html
This site provides the 2.5 Minute Geoid Undulation Grid - Middle East as an ESRI GRID
raster data set of 2.5-minute geoid undulation values covering the Middle East. This raster
file has a 2.5-minute cell size and is a subset of the global 2.5 x 2.5-minute grid of pre-
computed geoid undulation point values. This ESRI GRID format represents a continuous
surface of geoid undulation values where each 2.5-minute raster cell derives its value from
the original pre-computed geoid undulation point value located at the SW corner of each cell.
In the UAE region, 2.5 Minute is approximately 4.6 km.
6.6 GDEM Data of 30m Resolution

Because terrestrial gravity data remain too sparse in some regions, high-resolution Digital
Elevations Models (DEM) allows the enhancement of the highest frequencies of the geoid
model. A newly released Global DEM data of 30m resolution, called ASTER GDEM, is
available since June 29, 2009. The data is available in GeoTIFF format with geographic
lat/long coordinates and a one arc-second (30 m) grid of elevation postings, referenced to the
WGS84/EGM96 geoid. The estimated accuracies of this dataset are 20 meters at 95 %
confidence for vertical data, and 30 meters at 95 % confidence for horizontal data.
GDEM covers land surfaces between 83N and 83S and is composed of 22,600 1-by-1
tiles. Tiles that contain at least 0.01% land area are included. Data comprises 1.3 million
images, taken by Japan's Advanced Space borne Thermal Emission and Reflection
Radiometer (Aster) aboard the Terra satellite. This is the most complete, consistent global
digital elevation data yet made available to the world. (https://lpdaac.usgs.gov/)
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7 Appendix C: Coordinate Transformation
This appendix provides information required to convert coordinate values from Nahrwan
1967 datum (using Clarke1880 ellipsoid) to WGS84 datum (realized by ITRF2000 coordinate
frame). The accuracies of the different sets of transformation parameters and the precautions
to be taken while applying them are also described.
7.1 Transformation Parameters from ADM

Abu Dhabi Municipality (ADM) has developed a set of transformation parameters used to
convert coordinates from Nahrwan 1967 to WGS84. The 7 transformation parameters consist
of three shift components (X, Y,Z), three rotation components around each axis (Rx, Ry,
Rz), and one scale factor S. Three different sets of transformation parameters are available
for the three geographic areas of Abu Dhabi Island, and the parts of the emirate located in
UTM Zones 39Nand 40N.
Table 6: Transformation Parameters for Abu Dhabi Island
Transformation Value
Parameters
Shift (translation) X -246.1633m
Y -152.9047m
Z 382.6047m
Rotation Rx -0.0989 arc_second
Ry -0.1382 arc_second
Rz -0.0768 arc_second
Scale S 0.0000000000021
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Table 7: Transformation Parameters for Area in Zone 39N
Parameters
Shift (translation) X -242.8907 m
Y - 49.0671 m
Z 384.4160 m
Rotation Rx -0.19044 arc_second
Ry -0.24987 arc_second
Rz -0.13925 arc_second
Scale S 0.0000000001746
Table 8: Transformation Parameters for Area in Zone 40N
Parameters
Shift (translation) X -246.7340 m
Y -153.4345 m
Z 382.1477 m
Rotation Rx 0.116617 arc_second
Ry 0.165167 arc_second
Rz 0.091327 arc_second
Scale S 0.0000000000194
7.2 Transformation Parameters from MSD

Military Survey Department (MSD) has developed similar transformation parameters that are
more accurate compared to the parameters provided by ADM. MSD had established, a
national geodetic network of 256 horizontal control points with different order of accuracy in
1986. The coordinates of these homogeneous set of points are available in Nahrwan datum
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and many of them in WGS84 datum also. In order to transform the data from Nahrwan datum
to WGS 84 datum, MSD developed a set of transformation parameters that is applicable for
the whole of UAE with an accuracy of 20 cm to 30 cm in standard deviation. For better
transformation accuracy, MSD also established different sets of transformation parameters
for five geographic areas of UAE depending on the homogeneity, location and accuracy of
the control points.
MSD has control points for some of the offshore islands, but none of these control stations in
the islands has been used to generate the transformation parameters. In the future, it is
proposed to densify and connect the island control stations to land base control stations and
adjust the control points network to get one set of homogeneous control stations and then
generate the parameters for the entire Abu Dhabi Emirate.
7.3 Limitations of Transformation Parameters

The conversion of existing data of entities such as ADWEA and Etisalat in Nahrwan datum
to WGS 84 datum cannot be accomplished by applying these transformation parameters only.
This is because the data held by these entities in Nahrwan datum is not homogeneous in the
sense that different areas of the data have different types and amounts of distortions present.
Overcoming these non-linear distortions requires employing a piecewise rubber sheeting
algorithm based on TIN and planar affine transformation that preserves collinearity, and
hence, straightness of map features such as pipelines and ducts.
The reason for the non-homogeneity of distortions can be traced to the history of establishing
the network of control points by different government and private companies. While MSD
established the first order network of control points in Nahrwan datum very accurately,
different Municipalities and private companies established the second and third order control
points, for photogrammetric mapping, surveying, and engineering projects at large scale. All
these accumulated sets of control points resulted in a non-homogeneous network of control
points with different accuracies.
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8 Appendix D: Geographic Transformation Parameters
This appendix provides the parameters and values for various types of map projections,
ellipsoids, datums, and transformations that are of relevance to the AD-SDI community. The
information presented is extracted from the ESRI ArcGIS 9.3 documentation
(http://webhelp.esri.com/arcgisdesktop/9.3/pdf/geographic_transformations.pdf).
Table 9: Geodetic Datums and their Ellipsoids
Name code Ellipsoid
IERS Terrestrial Reference Frame 2000 6656 GRS 1980
IERS Terrestrial Reference Frame 2005 6896 GRS 1980
Nahrwan 1967 6270 Clarke 1880 (RGS)
Qatar National Datum 1995 6614 International 1924
WGS 1984 6326 WGS 1984
Table 10: Ellipsoid Parameters
Macro Code Name a (m) 1/f
esriSRSpheroid_Clarke1880 7034 Clarke 1880 6378249.138 293.4663077
esriSRSpheroid_Clarke1880RGS 7012 Clarke 1880 (RGS) 6378249.145 293.465
esriSRSpheroid_GRS1980 7019 GRS 1980 6378137 298.2572221
esriSRSpheroid_WGS1972 7043 WGS 1972 6378135 298.26
esriSRSpheroid_WGS1984 7030 WGS 1984 6378137 298.2572236
Table 11: Geographic (datum) transformationsGeocentric translation method
Name Code dx dy dz
ITRF_2000_To_WGS_1984 108280 0.0 0.0 0.0
Key to parameters
dx = x axis translation (meters)
dy = y axis translation (meters)
dz = z axis translation (meters)
Page 36 of 41
Table 12: Geographic (datum) transformationsCoordinate frame and position

vector (7 parameters) methods
Name Code Method dx dy dz rx ry rz ds
ITRF_2000_To_ITR 15698 Position -0.0001 0.0008 0.0058 0.0 0.0 0.0 -0.0004
F_2005_1 Vector
Key to parameters
dx = x axis translation (meters)
dy = y axis translation (meters)
dz = z axis translation (meters)
rx = x axis rotation (arc-seconds)
ry = y axis rotation (arc-seconds)
rz = z axis rotation (arc-seconds)
ds = scale difference (parts per million, ppm)
Table 13: Geographic (datum) TransformationsAreas of Use
Name Code Area of use
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_1 1189 Oman - Nasirah Island
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_2 1190 Saudi Arabia
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_3 1191 United Arab Emirates
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_4 1531 United Arab Emirates - Abu al Bu Koosh
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_5 1536 Qatar
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_6 15871 Iraq
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_7 15937 United Arab Emirates - Abu Dhabi offshore
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_8 15938 United Arab Emirates - Abu Dhabi offshore
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_9 15952 United Arab Emirates - Dubai offshore oilfields - Falah,

Fateh, Rashid
Nahrwan_1967_To_WGS_1984_10 15953 United Arab Emirates - Dubai municipality NADCON
ITRF_1988_To_ITRF_2000_1 1943 World
Page 37 of 41
ITRF_2000_To_NAD_1983_HARN 108281 United States - CORS96
ITRF_2000_To_WGS_1984 108280 United States
Page 38 of 41
EPSG Dataset
The Geodesy Subcommittee of the Surveying & Positioning Committee of the International
Association of Oil & Gas Producers (OGP) maintains the European Petroleum Survey Group
(EPSG) Geodetic Parameter Dataset, or EPSG dataset. It conforms to ISO 19111 Spatial
referencing by coordinates. (www.epsg.org)
EPSG:27039 Nahrwan 1967 / UTM zone 39N
WGS84 Bounds: 48.0000, 22.7500, 54.0000, 31.0000

Projected Bounds: 191884.8482, 2518755.4848, 808115.1518, 3433202.1305
Scope: Large and medium scale topographic mapping and engineering survey.
Last Revised: 2006-06-02
Area: Asia - Middle East - Nahrwan / UTM 39
PROJCS["Nahrwan 1967 / UTM zone 39N",

GEOGCS["Nahrwan 1967",
DATUM["Nahrwan_1967",
SPHEROID["Clarke 1880 (RGS)",6378249.145,293.465,
AUTHORITY["EPSG","7012"]],
PRIMEM["Greenwich",0,
UNIT["degree",0.01745329251994328,
UNIT["metre",1,
PROJECTION["Transverse_Mercator"],
PARAMETER["latitude_of_origin",0],
PARAMETER["central_meridian",51],
PARAMETER["scale_factor",0.9996],
PARAMETER["false_easting",500000],
PARAMETER["false_northing",0],
AUTHORITY["EPSG","27039"],
AXIS["Easting",EAST],
AXIS["Northing",NORTH]]
Page 39 of 41
EPSG:27040 Nahrwan 1967 / UTM zone 40N
WGS84 Bounds: 54.0000, 22.6000, 57.0300, 26.2900

Projected Bounds: 191549.0783, 2499031.3128, 503083.5092, 2911039.8667
Scope: Large and medium scale topographic mapping and engineering survey.
Last Revised: 1995-06-02
Area: UAE - east of 54E
PROJCS["Nahrwan 1967 / UTM zone 40N",

GEOGCS["Nahrwan 1967",
DATUM["Nahrwan_1967",
SPHEROID["Clarke 1880 (RGS)",6378249.145,293.465,
PRIMEM["Greenwich",0,
UNIT["degree",0.01745329251994328,
UNIT["metre",1,
PROJECTION["Transverse_Mercator"],
PARAMETER["latitude_of_origin",0],
PARAMETER["central_meridian",57],
PARAMETER["scale_factor",0.9996],
PARAMETER["false_easting",500000],
PARAMETER["false_northing",0],
AUTHORITY["EPSG","27040"],
AXIS["Easting",EAST],
AXIS["Northing",NORTH]]
Page 40 of 41
References
1. Using the EPSG Geodetic Parameter Dataset, OGP Surveying and Positioning
Guidance Note number 7, part 1 May 2009 (www.epsg.org)
2. Utilization of GIS and RTK GPS Reference Networks for Machine Automation,
Mustafa Al-Musawa, Dr. Ahmed El-Mowafy
(www.gisdevelopment.net/proceedings/mapmiddleeast/2008/mme08_21.pdf)
3. ArcGIS Desktop Help 9.3, including 9.3.1
(http://webhelp.esri.com/arcgisdesktop/9.3/)
4. Topographic Base Mapping Standards and Specifications for Abu Dhabi Emirate,
Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA), Version 1.0, 14 May, 2009
5. Nahrwan67 to WGS84 Transformation Parameters, Provisional Specifications for
Geo-spatial Data Submission (Set of documents) Version 0.3, Spatial Data
Directorate, Town Planning Sector, Abu Dhabi Municipality, January 2009
6. Geospatial Positioning Accuracy Standards, Part 1: Reporting Methodology, FGDC-
STD-007.1-1998
7. Geospatial Positioning Accuracy Standards, Part 2: Standards for Geodetic Networks,
FGDC-STD-007.2-1998
8. Geospatial Positioning Accuracy Standards, Part 3: National Standard for Spatial Data
Accuracy (NSSDA), FGDC-STD-007.3-1998
Page 41 of 41

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AD-SDI DATA STANDARD

SPATIAL REFERENCE SYSTEM

Revision # Reason Effective Date

1 Original Draft November 2009

2 Feedback from different persons December 2009

3 Correction of factual errors March 2010

4 Table 4: Commonly used Horizontal December 2010

Discussion # With Date Summary

1 Yasser Othman, Dec 17, 2010 Table 4: Commonly used Horizontal

2 Coordinate Systems .................................................................................... 8

3 Abu Dhabi Spatial Reference System ...................................................... 18

4 Geospatial Positioning Accuracy ............................................................. 20

5 Appendix A: Reference Frames ............................................................... 26

6 Appendix B: Geodetic Reference Systems ............................................... 29

6.3 GRS Network of Abu Dhabi ..................................................................................... 29

7 Appendix C: Coordinate Transformation ............................................... 33

8 Appendix D: Geographic Transformation Parameters .......................... 36

Table 7: Transformation Parameters for Area in Zone 39N ............................................. 34

1.4 Symbols, Abbreviations, and Notations

Compass-Beidou 2 The developing Chinese GNSS

CORS Continuously Operating Reference Station, a system of GNSS receivers

FGDS Fundamental Geographic Data Set

Galileo The emerging European GNSS

GLONASS Globalnaya Navigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema (Russian GNSS)

GPS Global Positioning System (American GNSS)

ITRF International Terrestrial Reference Frame

ITRS International Terrestrial Reference System

LAT Lowest Astronomical Tide

LOD Levels of Detail

SLR Satellite Laser Ranging

VLBI Very Long Baseline Interferometry

Its measurement framework:

There are two common types of coordinate systems used in GIS:

A geographic coordinate system such as latitude-longitude

2.1 Geographic Coordinate Systems

Figure 1: A Geographic Coordinate System

Figure 2: Alignment of Datum with Earths Surface

A position on a map is referenced to an imaginary plane surface, the horizontal datum, so

2.2 Projected Coordinate Systems

2.2.1 Map Projections

Figure 3: Transverse Mercator Projection

2.2.2 Universal Transverse Mercator Projection

Figure 4: A secant cylinder in a transverse position

Figure 5: The UTM Grid

UTMs effect on metric properties

Figure 6: Scale Distortions in UTM

2.3 Vertical Coordinate Systems

Figure 7: Vertical Coordinate System

2.3.2 Geoid Height

In the following figure:

h = ellipsoidal height, measured from ellipsoid along perpendicular passing through

N = geoid height, height of geoid above ellipsoid

Figure 8: Height Measurements

The relationship between ellipsoid height h and orthometric height H is:

2.3.3 Vertical Datum

3 Abu Dhabi Spatial Reference System

3.1 Coordinate System for Land Area

Table 1: Abu Dhabi Spatial Reference System

Measurement Framework Unit of Measurement Measurement System Properties

Spherical: Angular: Decimal Ellipsoid: WGS84

Projected: Linear: Meters Ellipsoid: WGS84

Table 2: UTM Parameters

UTM 39N 500000.000 0.000 51 00 00 00 00 00 0.999600000000 48 00 00 54 00 00