Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid approves Dh30 billion rainwater drainage project in Dubai

Tasreef initiative is be completed by 2033 and will help emirate to tackle climate-related challenges

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, has said the drainage project will serve Dubai for the next 100 years Photo: Dubai Media Office

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, has approved an initiative to improve water drainage in the emirate.

The Tasreef project will cost Dh30 billion ($8.16 billion), the Dubai Government Media Office said on X.

The scheme will be introduced immediately and is scheduled to be completed by 2033.

It will cover all areas of Dubai and will be able to handle more than 20 million cubic metres of water a day, Sheikh Mohammed said on X.

"Today, we approved an integrated project to develop Dubai's rainwater drainage network at a cost of Dh30 billion," said Sheikh Mohammed, the emirate's government media office reported.

"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 per cent, ensuring the emirate's readiness to face future climate-related challenges.

"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 100 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."

The strategic project is a continuation of drainage projects launched by Dubai in 2019, covering the Expo Dubai area, Al Maktoum International Airport City, and Jebel Ali, said the media office.

In April, the UAE recorded its heaviest rain in 75 years. Buildings and roads were flooded, while cars were abandoned on motorways and flights were cancelled, delayed or diverted as a result of the historic storm.

The project will utilise tunnel boring machines (TBM), the media office reported, featuring automated control systems that enable continuous monitoring and data analysis, with advanced safety systems to ensure the safety of workers and equipment.