Dubai has signed agreements for five additional schemes aimed at broadening and reinforcing its stormwater drainage infrastructure across the emirate.
Together, the contracts are worth AED2.5 billion ($680 million) and will benefit 30 key districts spanning 430 million square metres. The developments are expected to support a projected population of three million residents by 2040, according to a statement from Dubai Municipality cited by the Dubai Media Office.
Forming part of the second phase of the broader programme, the contracts have been awarded to DeTech Contracting, China State Construction Engineering Corporation and a group of specialist consultancy firms based in Dubai.
The scope of work comprises three construction agreements covering project delivery, alongside two contracts dedicated to the study and detailed design of drainage systems in selected locations throughout the emirate.
This latest announcement follows the AED1.4 billion contracts granted in April 2025 during the first phase of the AED30 billion drainage modernisation initiative, designed to strengthen resilience against climate pressures and accommodate accelerated urban growth.
Adel Al Marzouqi, chief executive of the waste and sewerage agency at Dubai Municipality, stated that the second-phase works are set to enhance public safety standards and improve overall quality of life.
Last year, AGBI reported that Hannover Re, the world’s third-largest reinsurer, recorded losses of €138 million ($150 million) linked to Dubai’s unprecedented flooding in April 2024.
The exceptional storm delivered more rainfall in a single day than Dubai would ordinarily receive over an entire year. The neighbouring Sultanate of Oman also experienced significant disruption.
In May 2025, Abu Dhabi launched tenders for stormwater drainage and flood-prevention projects, covering outfall diversions, the design and construction of discharge networks, and groundwater table reduction measures aimed at minimising surface flooding.
