Dubai Advances Renewable Water Desalination with Hassyan SWRO Plant

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is making significant strides in renewable-powered desalination with the first phase of its seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant at the Hassyan Complex. His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, recently reviewed the progress of the project, which has reached over 55% completion. The AED 3.377 billion project, set for completion in 2027, will be the world’s largest water production facility based on SWRO technology and DEWA’s first implemented under the Independent Water Producer (IWP) model.

The plant’s first phase will add 180 million gallons per day (MIGD) of desalinated water to Dubai’s supply, contributing to the emirate’s long-term water security and sustainability goals. DEWA is integrating renewable energy into the project, aligning with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, which aim to achieve 100% clean energy by mid-century.

Al Tayer emphasized that DEWA’s desalination initiatives will support the Dubai Integrated Water Resource Management Strategy 2030, which prioritizes sustainable water solutions. “By 2030, DEWA will add 240 MIGD of desalination capacity using SWRO technology, bringing the total installed capacity to 735 MIGD. Our goal is to produce 100% of desalinated water from a clean energy mix that leverages renewable sources and waste heat,” he said.

Officials from “Hassyan Water Company A” briefed Al Tayer on the project’s progress, highlighting its role in strengthening Dubai’s smart water infrastructure. Accompanied by Waleed Bin Salman, Executive Vice President of Business Development and Excellence, Al Tayer reiterated that the project supports Dubai’s broader strategy to ensure a sustainable and resilient water supply.

By integrating renewable energy with advanced desalination technology, Dubai continues to reinforce its leadership in sustainable water resource management, setting a global benchmark for eco-friendly desalination solutions.