The UAE has made remarkable strides in its infrastructure sector throughout 2024, initiating a range of essential projects aimed at fulfilling the nation’s economic growth ambitions and promoting development across diverse industries.
Notable milestones include the groundbreaking commencement of commercial operations for Unit 4 at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, which signifies the plant’s complete operational capacity. The Barakah Plant is now producing 40 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity annually, contributing up to 25 percent of the UAE’s power supply in a clean and carbon-free manner.
Comprehensive infrastructure package
The Executive Committee of the Initiatives of His Highness the President of the UAE has sanctioned a substantial infrastructure package, which encompasses the construction of nine new dams, the expansion of two existing ones, and the establishment of various embankment barriers. These initiatives are designed to drive infrastructure resilience against climate change and enhance water reserves through the collection of rainwater and floodwaters, with a potential storage capacity of up to 8 million cubic meters.
These projects are slated for completion within 19 months and will also feature the construction of nine water canals, totaling approximately 9 kilometers in length.
Abu Dhabi’s project expansion
In Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre announced the Executive Council’s endorsement of 144 projects across the emirate, with a cumulative budget of around AED66 billion ($17.9 billion). These projects will cover various sectors, including housing and quality of life, education and human capital, tourism, and natural resources.
Transportation initiatives
Moreover, among the prominent initiatives, the Integrated Transport Centre revealed plans for a 25-kilometer median islands project, which is expected to accommodate between 8,000 and 10,000 vehicles per hour in each direction. Additional projects include traffic enhancements on Musaffah Road (E30), improvements to Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20), and the construction of new bridges on Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Road (E22) and 79th Street in Mohamed bin Zayed City.
Dubai’s major developments
Additionally, in Dubai, several major projects were announced. The new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport is poised to become the largest airport in the world upon its completion, with an investment of AED128 billion. It will have the capacity to manage 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo annually, featuring 400 aircraft gates and five parallel runways, alongside the rollout of new aviation technologies.
Enhancements in rainwater management
Furthermore, the second project, the “Tasreef” initiative, aims to enhance Dubai’s rainwater drainage network with a budget of AED30 billion, increasing its capacity by 700%. The third initiative involves expanding the Dubai Exhibition Centre to double its capacity for hosting major events annually from 300 to over 600 by 2033. Additionally, Dubai inaugurated a significant two-lane bridge measuring 1,000 meters, linking Hessa Street to Al Khail Street, which cuts travel time from 15 minutes to just 3 minutes.
Green initiatives in Sharjah
Sharjah has also progressed in its green initiatives by launching two irrigation projects aimed at landscaping, which include upgrading the Al Al Qarain pumping station and constructing a new pump station in the Al-Budaiya area. The Roads and Transport Authority has completed infrastructure work in the Al Sajaah Industrial Area, featuring a network of main roads spanning 9.5 kilometers.
Energy distribution in Ajman
In Ajman, Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) launched two energy distribution stations—Hamidiya Station (AED137 million) and Mohammed bin Zayed Substation (AED61 million). The municipality also finalized 10 kilometers of internal roads in Al Mowaihat and Al Rawda.
Water desalination in Umm Al Qaiwain
In Umm Al Qaiwain, the “NAQA’A” Seawater Reverse Osmosis desalination plant—one of the largest reverse osmosis facilities globally—was inaugurated, boasting a daily capacity of 150 million gallons of desalinated water. The emirate also initiated the Logistics City and Umm Al Qaiwain Cargo Airport.
Enhancements in Ras Al Khaimah
Also, in Ras Al Khaimah, the construction of the Al Ghail Pumping Station, at a cost of AED122 million, is set to improve water distribution in the central region.
Technological upgrades in Fujairah
Additionally, in Fujairah, the Al-Nujaymat Main Station has been upgraded with cutting-edge technology and equipment, representing an investment of AED122 million.
