The UAE has advanced its efforts to reinforce water infrastructure by signing a $285 million agreement to develop a desalination plant in Fujairah. The initiative underscores the nation’s commitment to securing sustainable water supplies amid increasing demand.
The project will be undertaken by Etihad Water and Electricity through its investment arm, in partnership with key infrastructure players. Located at the Port of Fujairah, the facility is intended to cater to the rising water needs of the Northern Emirates.
Upon completion, the plant is expected to generate approximately 60 million imperial gallons of desalinated water per day. It will utilise modern seawater reverse osmosis technology, offering improved energy efficiency while supporting national sustainability objectives.
Structured under a public-private partnership model, the development represents EtihadWE’s second initiative of this kind. It reflects a broader strategy to leverage private sector expertise in accelerating infrastructure delivery and enhancing operational efficiency.
The construction timeline is estimated at around 30 months, with phased commissioning planned ahead of full-scale operations. Once operational, the plant will supply water to residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, particularly during peak consumption periods.
Overall, the project aligns with the UAE’s long-term water security strategy, focused on boosting desalination capacity, improving resource management, and ensuring a resilient supply to meet future economic and population growth.
