UAE Infrastructure Projects In 2024: Major Developments Across Energy And Transport Sectors
The UAE has made significant strides in its infrastructure sector throughout 2024. This progress is driven by a series of projects aimed at supporting the nation's economic growth and fostering development across various industries. A key milestone was the commencement of commercial operations for Unit 4 at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, which now fully delivers electricity.
In Abu Dhabi, the Executive Council approved 144 projects with a budget of AED66 billion. These initiatives cover sectors like housing, education, tourism, and natural resources. Among these, the Integrated Transport Centre introduced a 25-km median islands project to handle up to 10,000 vehicles per hour in each direction.
Dubai announced several major projects, including a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport. This facility aims to be the world's largest airport upon completion, costing AED128 billion and accommodating 260 million passengers annually. Additionally, Dubai's "Tasreef" initiative will enhance its rainwater drainage network by 700% at a cost of AED30 billion.
Sharjah focused on green initiatives by launching two irrigation projects for landscaping. These include upgrading the Al Al Qarain pumping station and constructing a new pump station in Al-Budaiya area. The Roads and Transport Authority also completed infrastructure works in the Al Sajaah Industrial Area with main roads spanning 9.5 km.
In Ajman, Etihad Water and Electricity inaugurated two energy distribution stations: Hamidiya Station (AED137 million) and Mohammed bin Zayed Substation (AED61 million). The municipality also finished constructing 10 kilometres of internal roads in Al Mowaihat and Al Rawda areas.
Water Management and Energy Initiatives
The Executive Committee of the Initiatives of His Highness the President of the UAE approved an infrastructure package that includes nine new dams and expansions to existing ones. These efforts aim to increase water reserves by collecting rainwater with a storage capacity of up to 8 million cubic metres.
Umm Al Qaiwain launched the "NAQA'A" Seawater Reverse Osmosis desalination plant, one of the largest globally, with a daily capacity of 150 million gallons of desalinated water. The emirate also initiated Logistics City and Umm Al Qaiwain Cargo Airport projects.
Enhancements in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah
Ras Al Khaimah saw the construction of the Al Ghail Pumping Station for AED122 million to improve water distribution in its central region. Meanwhile, Fujairah upgraded its Al-Nujaymat Main Station with advanced technology for AED122 million.
The Barakah Plant now generates 40TWh annually, supplying up to 25% of UAE's clean electricity. This achievement underscores UAE's commitment to sustainable energy solutions while supporting its growing infrastructure needs.
With inputs from WAM
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