Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is advancing construction on the world’s largest seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant at the Hassyan Complex, with the first phase now 40.6% complete.
The $925 million (AED 3.377 billion) state-of-the-art facility will produce 180 million gallons per day (MIGD) upon completion in 2027, supporting Dubai’s increasing demand for water as the city continues its rapid development.
The project is implemented under the Independent Water Producer (IWP) model, and forms part of DEWA’s strategy to enhance water security using innovative and energy-efficient desalination technologies.
“This project aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to develop world-class infrastructure for energy and water that supports Dubai’s sustainable development goals,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, during his site visit.
“By leveraging SWRO technology, which requires significantly less energy than traditional multi-stage distillation, we are ensuring a more sustainable approach to water production.”
Al Tayer highlighted that the Hassyan desalination plant also supports Dubai’s climate ambitions, including the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, which aim for 100% clean energy by mid-century.
DEWA plans for all desalinated water to be produced by a clean energy mix, including renewable sources and waste heat, by 2030.
This integration of sustainable technologies reflects Dubai’s broader efforts to diversify energy resources and reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining a robust infrastructure capable of meeting rising water demands.
The SWRO plant is strategically located within the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the world’s largest single-site solar park, further emphasizing Dubai’s commitment to renewable energy.
Accompanied by Waleed Bin Salman, Executive Vice President of Business Development and Excellence, and other senior officials, Al Tayer inspected the ongoing work and reaffirmed DEWA’s dedication to delivering the project on time.
“This project is a model for how we can achieve water security sustainably, aligning infrastructure development with environmental stewardship,” Al Tayer added.
The Hassyan desalination plant is expected to addresses Dubai’s growing water needs and also reinforce the emirate’s push towards sustainability.
