Dubai Launches AED 30 Billion Tasreef Project To Amplify Rainwater Drainage Capacity

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has sanctioned the 'Tasreef' project to develop Dubai's rainwater drainage network. This initiative, costing AED30 billion, is among the emirate’s most significant infrastructure projects. The project will boost the capacity of Dubai’s rainwater drainage system by 700%, covering all areas of the emirate.

The approval took place in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE; and H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that enhancing Dubai’s sustainable infrastructure is crucial for its growth and prosperity.

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This strategic project continues drainage initiatives launched by Dubai in 2019, covering areas like Expo Dubai, Al Maktoum International Airport City, and Jebel Ali. It aligns with Dubai's plans for developing a flexible, advanced, and future-ready infrastructure. The project addresses future climate change impacts, such as increased rainfall, with a network designed to adapt seamlessly to all rainfall events.

Dubai Municipality will implement the project following the highest global technical and engineering standards. This initiative supports the Municipality’s goals for integrated management of rainwater drainage and sewage systems. It underscores a commitment to infrastructure projects that enhance sustainability and quality of life in Dubai.

The 'Tasreef' project aims to improve rainwater and surface water drainage services with a sophisticated infrastructure. It will enhance operational efficiencies and reduce costs associated with station construction, operations, and maintenance by 20%, increasing the network's lifespan. The rainwater drainage capacity through tunnels will reach 20 million cubic metres per day, with a flow capacity of 230 cubic metres per second.

"Today, we approved an integrated project to develop Dubai's rainwater drainage network at a cost of AED30 billion. The largest rainwater collection project in a single system in the region, the initiative will increase the capacity of the drainage network in the emirate by 700%, ensuring the emirate's readiness to face future climate-related challenges," Sheikh Mohammed said.

Advanced Tunnelling Equipment

The project will use advanced Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM), the largest in the Middle East. These machines are known for their efficiency, speed, high precision in excavation, and ability to handle various topographical conditions. They feature automated control systems for continuous monitoring and data analysis, along with advanced safety systems to ensure worker and equipment safety.

"Covering all areas of Dubai, the project will raise the drainage network’s capacity to more than 20 million cubic metres of water daily, meeting our needs for the next hundred years. We have directed the immediate implementation of the project, which will be completed in phases by 2033. Dubai continues to drive infrastructure and urban advancements, enhancing safety and security for everyone living in the emirate," His Highness further said.

The meeting to approve this project was also attended by H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council; Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Director General of His Highness The Dubai Ruler's Court; Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai; Lieutenant General Talal Humaid Belhoul, Director General of Dubai's State Security Department; Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning and Well-Being Pillar and Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA); Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA); and Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality.

This initiative supports Dubai’s comprehensive development plans while boosting its global competitiveness. It further improves quality-of-life indicators within the emirate.

With inputs from WAM