23rd WETEX and Dubai Solar Show attracts 61 local and global sponsors

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is organising the Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) and Dubai Solar Show, the largest of its kind in the region, from 5 to 7 October 2021 at Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo 2020 Dubai. WETEX and Dubai Solar Show are held under the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and under the patronage of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy.  The 23rd WETEX is an exceptional opportunity for visitors and exhibitors worldwide to become part of the first Expo in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia and one of the first major events since the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s WETEX and DSS have attracted 61 sponsors and 15 partners and supporters.

Recognition

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD&CEO of DEWA, Founder and Chairman of WETEX and Dubai Solar Show, praised the sponsors and partners for their distinguished contributions to achieve the exhibition’s objectives and underline its role as an ideal platform for technological solutions and innovative products in the energy, water, and environment sectors.

“Over 22 years, WETEX has become one of the largest and most important specialised global exhibitions and an annual event awaited by organisations from the energy, water, environment, oil, gas, green development and related sectors from the region and the world. They can present products and solutions, discuss best practices and the latest technologies and innovations. The exhibition is an opportunity to reach thousands of exhibitors to make deals, build partnerships, and view the latest technologies and innovations in the energy, water, renewable energy, and environment sectors, as well as learn about market needs, especially in view of the increased adoption of renewable energy technologies in the UAE and the region,” said Al Tayer.

Jubilee Sponsors

RTA

HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said that the strategic partnership with DEWA aims to consolidate Dubai’s position as a global capital for leadership in sustainability and green economy. Through several projects and initiatives, joint efforts have contributed to reducing carbon emissions and increasing green practices that support the UAE environment.

“Building on this partnership, the RTA will participate in WETEX to showcase its efforts and initiatives in enhancing sustainability and learning about the latest smart technologies and solutions in different areas of green economy, smart cities, innovation, and sustainable development,” said Al Tayer.

Al Tayer said that the RTA is attaching great importance to sustainability. This is reflected in updating its strategy to become ‘global leadership for easy and sustainable transport.’ The RTA is one of the first government entities to adopt smart services for customers round the clock. This enabled it to continue providing services as usual during the COVID-19 pandemic. The RTA is also the first entity in the roads and transport sector worldwide to issue its annual Sustainability Report according to the GRI standards in 2018. The RTA made significant savings in 2020, reaching more than 51 million kilowatt/hour of electricity, 31 million litres of fuel, and 45 million gallons of water. This reduced carbon emissions by nearly 113,000 tonnes, equivalent to carbon dioxide, which in turn saved AED 52 million during the year. The RTA achieved this through 52 initiatives for energy and a green economy in 2020.

Al Tayer said that the RTA launched a road map to use emission-free means of transportation in Dubai by 2050. The road map has been adopted in April 2021. It includes three strategic pillars: green mobility, infrastructure, and circular economy. It aims to reduce 8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent and save nearly AED 3 billion by 2050. This aligns with relevant federal and local directives and global efforts such as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the C40 network to fight climate change. The road map aims to enhance Dubai and the UAE’s position in global rankings. The RTA has become the first government body in the MENA region to chart out a comprehensive plan for public transport and related infrastructure that aims to achieve zero carbon emissions in all its operations.

ENOC

“As a national oil company aligned with the sustainability vision of our leadership, we are keen to participate in WETEX as it is a strong regional and international platform that highlights the vital issues influencing the energy sector. The event also showcases innovative solutions and best practices for the energy sector, especially to support the energy transition to renewables. As the Integrated Energy Partner of Expo 2020 Dubai, our contribution in the 23rd edition of WETEX, which will be part of this global event, is aligned with our theme “Reimagine Energy” and we will focus on educating visitors about energy trends and build dialogue around them,” said HE Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group CEO, Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC).

Siemens

“Over the past two decades, WETEX has become one of the premier global events in the water, energy, and technology sectors, and we at Siemens are honoured to be Jubilee Sponsors of the latest edition of the exhibition. Siemens is looking forward to discussing and learning from our partners and peers about the latest innovations in these sectors, and will showcase our best and most promising solutions, some of which are already in use or planned to be implemented by our partners at DEWA as well as at the Expo 2020 Dubai site itself,” said Helmut von Struve, Chief Executive Officer of Siemens in the UAE and the Middle East.

ACWA Power

“As always, we are pleased to play a strategic role in one of the largest and most important global water, environment, and energy exhibitions led by DEWA. We are honoured to have established a robust partnership with DEWA to develop and operate vital projects that promote the sustainable development of the UAE and fortify Dubai’s position as a global hub for sustainability, all the while contributing towards Dubai’s ambitious Clean Energy Strategy 2050 to increase its renewable energy share to 75% by the year 2050. The partnership between ACWA Power and DEWA serves as an example for successful public-private partnerships geared towards supplying energy that is reliable, responsible and cost-effective,” said Mohammad Abunayyan, Chairman of ACWA Power, commenting on the company’s participation at WETEX 2021.

“This year, in its 23rd round, WETEX is going to be more critical than ever due to the economic implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prioritising innovation today is key to unlocking growth – and WETEX is the ideal platform that gathers stakeholders, governments and companies who are eager to explore and reciprocate insights and visions on forward-looking smart technologies and electrification solutions for a prosperous future,” added Abunayyan.

Abunayyan also highlighted that ACWA Power’s participation in this year’s edition will highlight its efforts to lead the energy transition globally to enable the economic, social and environmental sustainability plans for countries and communities.

Titanium sponsors

The Sustainable City

“At The Sustainable City, we prioritise innovation and embrace the latest technologies to achieve the lowest possible environmental impact and to reach the UN Paris Climate targets of 2050. As proud sponsors of WETEX and the Dubai Solar Show, we are pleased to be supporting the growth of technological solutions and innovative products in the sectors of energy, water, and environmental development. We understand the need to combine creativity with engineering to achieve the best possible results necessary to make real change,” said Faris Saeed, CEO and Co-Founder of Diamond Developers - developer of The Sustainable City.

Hitachi ABB Power Grids

“This edition of WETEX comes at a crucial time for businesses anticipating a post-pandemic economic growth surge. This year’s physical exhibition is also a testimony of the tenacity of the UAE to tide over the pandemic and normalise the situation to pave the way for business and economic growth. This year’s focus for Hitachi ABB Power Grids will be Sustainability and Digitalisation, showcasing our pioneering technology and electricity solutions that will reinforce a carbon-neutral future. Combating climate change is one of the most urgent challenges of our time, and the energy transition is key to achieving a sustainable future, where electricity will be the backbone. The solutions and services are aimed at helping customers overcome complexity, increase efficiency, and accelerate the shift towards a carbon-neutral energy future,” said Dr. Mostafa AlGuezeri, Managing Director of Hitachi ABB Power Grids for the UAE, Gulf, Near East and Pakistan.

Strategic sponsors

Masdar

“This year’s WETEX and Dubai Solar Show is an important platform for Masdar to showcase how advances in technology and efficiencies in manufacturing have made renewable energy more accessible and affordable for all. As a longstanding sponsor of WETEX, Masdar is proud to be supporting our partner DEWA with this event, and in its efforts in achieving the UAE’s ambitious clean energy goals,” said Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar).

Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA)

“Through Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority’s participation, in collaboration with the public and private sectors, we aim to shape the future of the energy sector. This year’s WETEX will be an exceptional edition, offering visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Expo 2020 Dubai. In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, iterated through the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, DSOA is keen on contributing to make Dubai a global centre of clean energy and green economy,” said Dr Mohammed Al Zarooni, Vice Chairman and CEO of DSOA.

“In recent years, DSOA has marked key achievements in boosting energy efficiency through implementing several environmental initiatives, such as reducing energy consumption by 30%. Through the Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus, we are committed to supporting startups and entrepreneurs that develop innovative smart city solutions that address traffic congestion, waste management, and efficient use of energy. Such initiatives will contribute to the achievement of Dubai and the wider UAE’s ambitions to reduce their carbon footprint,” added Al Zarooni.

Empower

“We are keen to support and actively participate in the 23rd WETEX and Dubai Solar Show, which is an annual event organised by DEWA, in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum,” said Ahmad bin Shafar, CEO of the Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower).

“Empower’s strategic sponsorship for the event reflects the company’s confidence in its objectives, especially with regards to preserving the natural resources. This is exactly what Empower strives to achieve by innovating new solutions that serve the transformation towards a green economy, and help to pave the way towards sustainable development that guarantees balanced economic growth as well as the protection of the environment and natural resources,” he added.

Bin Shafar also pointed to the distinction and exceptionality that await the participants and visitors of the show which will be held at the Expo 2020 and will coincide with the global launch of the long-awaited event. Bin Shafar highlighted the prestigious global position of the exhibition, which has become an annual meeting that defies the concept of traditional exhibitions. It is indeed an event awaited by local, regional and global agencies, institutions, specialised governmental bodies and major private sector companies in the fields of energy, water, environment, oil and gas, green development and sustainability. Bin Shafar felt the event is  a great opportunity for establishing partnerships, exchanging experiences, introducing new solutions and products, and disseminating best practices, innovations and latest technologies in these domains.

Ducab

“The UAE’s relentless pursuit of energy diversification has led to remarkable achievements within the renewable energy ecosystem. In particular, industrial innovation has greatly expanded the value produced by this ecosystem. Today, we are creating energy for change. Visitors to this year’s WETEX and Dubai Solar Show, as well as Expo 2020 Dubai more broadly, can see this progress firsthand—and a vision of where we are going next,” said Jamal Salem Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Ducab.

NEOM

“We are pleased to be participating in WETEX, alongside the most innovative companies and organisations in our region. Water is the world’s most valuable resource, and it is no secret that the MENA region is one that is heavily dependent on desalination. We need to work together to meet the water requirements in our region, and the rest of the world, in the face of the growing threat of climate change. At NEOM, we are committed to utilising the best minds and latest technology to achieve 100% recycling of wastewater, creating a smart and connected water infrastructure, and investing in innovative water solutions that benefit the world,” said Gavin van Tonder, Executive Director of Water at NEOM.

Gulf Eternit Industries

“We are proud to be a strategic partner at WETEX 2021. WETEX focuses on the latest solutions and technologies of conventional and renewable energy, water, sustainability, and conservation. We are proud to work with DEWA to deliver such solutions. The 23rd WETEX is an exceptional opportunity for us to participate in the first Expo held in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia and one of the first major events since the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this strategic partnership, we look forward to building a more sustainable world,” said Mounib Hatab, Senior Vice President at Gulf Eternit Industries.

Platinum Sponsors

Larsen & Toubro

“As one of the major players in the EPC space, L&T is proud to have been associated with WETEX Dubai since 2016 as it brings together important stakeholders from across the globe and provides a perfect platform to interact and exchange ideas. This year WETEX is part of Expo 2020, and this makes it very special and provides us a global platform and an opportunity to showcase our strong track record and capabilities in renewables, power transmission & distribution, and water businesses. We are pleased to reaffirm our commitment towards the UAE and DEWA and invite everyone to discover our innovative projects that provide sustainable solutions in the technology areas,” said T. Madhava Das, Director & Sr. Executive Vice President (Utilities), L&T.

Larsen & Toubro will showcase a special group of a distinctive range of engineering, procurement, and construction services during its participation at WETEX 2021.

Gold sponsors

DP World

“Sustainability and technological advancements are key pillars at DP World, UAE Region. Our efforts are aligned with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. To contribute to Emirates Green Agenda 2030 and Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, we have consistently worked to improve energy efficiencies by utilising renewables like solar on-grid installations, IT solutions and smart operational technologies. Earlier this year, we collaborated with Etihad ESCO, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DEWA, to support us in our mission of renewable solar power installations across all DP World’s assets in the UAE. In this regard, events like WETEX and the Dubai Solar Show have enabled us to build on our core principles and showcase cutting-edge technologies and initiatives for environmental sustainability, and are integral to serve the national cause of a sustainable future,” said Ahmad Al Haddad, Chief Operating Officer, Parks and Zones, DP World - UAE Region.

Itron

“Itron has decades of experience innovating the way utilities and cities manage energy and water around the world, and we are excited to showcase our solutions at the 23rd WETEX. Our booth will feature our proven, end-to-end solutions for energy and water, which take advantage of our broad partner ecosystem and have been proven to scale in some of the harshest environments on earth. Recognising the many challenges and roadblocks to integrating renewable energy around the world, we are proud to be a gold sponsor of WETEX, which brings together leaders in the industry to promote a more resourceful world,” said Andrew Jones, Vice President of Sales for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Itron.

Honeywell

“Helping to create a smarter and more energy efficient Dubai remains a key commitment for Honeywell. We are working with our customers to achieve the goals set out in the government’s sustainability plans and are proud to be appointed by DEWA for the next phase of the smart energy initiative. By leveraging our connected technologies, we are focused on promoting smarter electricity usage across the UAE,” said Mohammed Mohaisen, President & CEO, Honeywell Middle East, North Africa, Turkey & Central Asia.

Strategic Media sponsors

DMI

“The strategic media partnership for the activities of WETEX, comes in fulfilment of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to encourage and support creativity as well as provide permanent contributions to various community and service activities and in line with the vision of the wise leadership in promoting sustainable development in the UAE, and consolidation of Dubai’s position as a global centre for the green economy. WETEX is an ideal platform for presenting and discussing the most important topics and latest developments in several areas, including water, energy, environmental management, sustainable development and consumption and water renewable energy,” said Ahmed Saeed Al Mansouri, CEO of Radio and TV Sector at Dubai Media Incorporated.

Al Mansouri highlighted the important role of the media in achieving integration between all segments of the energy sector, providing new opportunities for cooperation between commercial and technical sectors, providing new business opportunities, as well as promoting the exchange of ideas and experiences and reviewing the latest innovations and techniques; in addition to the role of media professionals in spreading awareness and presenting accurate information in a realistic manner.

Al Mansouri confirmed that Dubai TV, with its multiple TV, radio and digital channels, will highlight the activities of WETEX, which will be held for the first time at Expo 2020,  as the first international Expo in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region and one of the first major events in the world. It will be a unique platform for presenting and discussing all critical issues related to rationalising water consumption, protecting natural resources and building a sustainable environment.

Al Bayan

“WETEX has consolidated its position over the past 22 years in the field of green economy and sustainable development. It is an annual forum that attracts top-notch experts, specialists and investors to explore innovative energy solutions,” said Muna Busamra, Editor in Chief, Al Bayan newspaper.

“This international event brings together decision-makers, experts and officials from around the world to exchange experiences, enhance collaboration, create partnerships, and learn about the latest innovations, technologies, and projects in conventional and renewable energy as well as water and energy,” added Busamra.

“DEWA, which organises the WETEX every year, has succeeded in achieving the wise leadership’s vision for promoting sustainable development in the UAE and consolidating Dubai’s position as a global hub for the green economy. Under the wise leadership, the UAE has transformed into a global model in renewable and clean energy in a short period of time. This is through launching ambitious initiatives to increase the use of solar power and several mega projects, including the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the largest single-site solar park in the world. DEWA also has promising projects in energy, water, environment and clean energy to achieve sustainable development and create a diverse and more sustainable economy that protects natural resources and enhances the Emirate’s competitiveness in energy, water, and environment sectors,” added Busamra.

Media Partners

ARN

“ARN is proud to have a strategic partnership with DEWA to be the media partner of WETEX 2021, particularly after we recover from the pandemic and this season is distinctive due to its occurrence in October at Expo 2020 Dubai. The exhibition is an ideal platform to discuss ways of achieving a sustainable future through water conservation, protecting natural resources, and reducing emissions. The media is the mirror of the community, and we should deliver all WETEX’s messages via our various ARN platforms. WETEX has an international reputation as a meeting place for solution providers, investors, and decision-makers from the private and public sectors. We wish good luck to all participants and the organisers of WETEX,” said Mahmoud Al Rasheed, General Manager for ARN.

WETEX Partners

Dubai Supreme Council for Energy

“WETEX is one of the most important exhibitions in Dubai where global experts in energy meet to discuss and showcase the latest technologies, particularly in clean energy and rationalisation of energy and water. The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy takes this opportunity to participate and benefit from this important event,” said HE Ahmad Buti Al Muhairbi, Secretary-General of the Dubai Supreme Council for Energy.

Etihad ESCO

“Etihad ESCO continues to support Dubai’s vision to become one of the most sustainable cities in the world through successful implementation of retrofitting and solar projects across the Emirate. Since 2011, the implementation of DSM programmes has resulted in AED 7.1 billion savings in operational costs and capital investments, with a reduction of 11.5 million metric tonnes of CO2. These numbers indicate that we are on the right track to achieve a 30% reduction in energy consumption by 2030,” said Faisal Al Raisi, COO & Acting CEO of Etihad Energy Services.

“WETEX offers an ideal platform for us to showcase our notable achievements of retrofitting 7763 facilities till the end of 2020 and will provide an opportunity to display our projects in energy efficiency that has been executed in DEWA buildings, Wasl Properties, JAFZA and Dubai Airports Terminals, as well as solar projects executed at Mai Dubai Factory and Museum of Future. In addition, we will showcase the latest technologies and innovations in energy efficiency and solar. WETEX will yield new opportunities for collaboration and perspectives on addressing the challenges in these vital sectors; in turn, driving the UAE’s ambitions for a green economy and sustainable development,” added Al Raisi.