The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is spearheading transformative efforts to ensure the security and sustainability of water resources in alignment with national priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 6 focused on water and sanitation. With Dubai experiencing economic growth, a surge in population, and escalating water demand, DEWA is strategically investing in Sea Water Reverse Osmosis technology for water production, with a goal of achieving 100 percent desalinated water production using clean energy and waste heat by 2030.

Under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, DEWA is fully committed to the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions, DEWA is dedicated to ensuring the sustainability of water resources, as outlined in the Dubai Integrated Water Resource Management Strategy 2030.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, CEO of DEWA, emphasizes the three pillars guiding their sustainability approach: leveraging clean solar power for desalination through Reverse Osmosis, storing excess water in aquifers for efficient distribution, and adopting an integrated model that balances environmental protection with economic sustainability.

DEWA has achieved significant milestones, reducing water network losses to an impressive 4.5 percent in 2022 while actively expanding water reservoir projects. Ongoing efforts in Lusaily, coupled with upcoming projects in Nakhali, Hassyan, and Hatta, will significantly increase storage capacity to 1,152 Million Imperial Gallons of desalinated water.

DEWA is gaining international acclaim for groundbreaking projects, notably the Hassyan desalination project – the world's largest solar energy-powered desalination plant based on Sea Water Reverse Osmosis technology. With an investment of AED 3.357 billion, this Independent Water Producer model project is set to reach a capacity of 670 MIGD by 2027.

Additionally, DEWA's Jebel Ali Power and Desalination Complex stands as the world's largest single-site water desalination facility, boasting a production capacity of 490 MIGD.

In the realm of technological advancements, DEWA launched the third phase of its Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Centre in 2023, incorporating real-time hydraulic modeling and over 10,000 smart devices to monitor Dubai's extensive water network. The Smart Grid Strategy, backed by a AED 7 billion investment, leverages AI, drones, blockchain, and IoT to ensure seamless, round-the-clock services, focusing on Foundational Capabilities, Grid Automation, Smart Energy Solutions, Green Mobility, Smart Water, Smart Grid Artificial Intelligence, and Innovative Value-Added Services.

The deployment of smart meters, a cornerstone of DEWA's digital transformation, enhances operational efficiency and reduces losses. All traditional meters for electricity and water have been upgraded to smart meters, providing customers with proactive control over their consumption.

DEWA continues to lead in innovation with initiatives like the Automatic Smart Grid Restoration System, the first of its kind in the MENA region, and the Big Data and Analytics platform launched in 2022. The 'High-Water Usage Alert' service, supported by the smart grid, proactively detects leaks in water connections, providing instant notifications to customers for prompt repairs and maintenance, contributing to water conservation efforts.

In summary, DEWA's multifaceted approach, from sustainable water production to the adoption of cutting-edge technology, positions Dubai as a global leader in water resource management and sets a precedent for smart, efficient, and sustainable city development.