Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is expanding its portfolio of sustainability and tourism projects in Hatta, aligning with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The initiatives aim to reinforce Hatta’s position as a model for balancing environmental preservation with economic development.
HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA, said the projects support Dubai’s broader development strategy, including the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and Dubai Social Agenda 33. He said DEWA’s work in Hatta seeks to strengthen the area’s competitiveness as a destination for tourism and investment while maintaining its natural landscape and heritage.
Central to the effort is the Hatta Pumped-Storage Hydroelectric Power Station, the first facility of its kind in the GCC, capable of delivering full power to the grid within 90 seconds. DEWA has also developed water infrastructure, including a 30-million-gallon desalinated water reservoir, microfiltration units for emergency dam water treatment, and new interconnections with other emirates. Additional initiatives include the Shams Dubai solar programme.
To enhance Hatta’s tourism appeal, DEWA launched the Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls project at the upper dam of the hydroelectric station. The site features what Guinness World Records has recognised as the world’s largest mosaic mural, created with Brand Dubai and depicting the UAE’s Founding Fathers.
DEWA has also completed Al Rayan Mosque, a landmark of sustainable design. The mosque holds three global distinctions under the US Green Building Council’s LEED programme: LEED Platinum (2021), LEED Zero Energy (2024), and, in 2025, LEED Zero Carbon - the first mosque worldwide to achieve all three. Powered by photovoltaic panels generating 150% of its annual energy needs, the mosque exports surplus electricity to the grid and incorporates recycled materials, advanced air purification, facilities for People of Determination, and an EV charging station.
Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office
Alexander Agafiev Macambira is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.
Alexander Agafiev Macambira
