Ahmed bin Saeed inaugurates 27th edition of the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition

- Ahmed bin Saeed inaugurates 27th edition of the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition

His Highness: Launched 27 years ago, WETEX confirms Dubai’s position as a major partner in formulating solutions to global climate challenges and as a leading centre for developing innovative business models

Bringing together 3,100 companies from 65 countries, event organised by DEWA underscores Dubai’s growing influence as a global hub for sustainability and innovation

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, emphasised that thanks to the vision and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in the transition towards a green economy. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed was inaugurating the 27th edition of the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition "WETEX" organised by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority "DEWA".

“Dubai has become a strategic hub for hosting and organising major international events and exhibitions, particularly in the areas of sustainability and innovation, enhancing public-private partnerships and international partnerships, and attracting investments. WETEX has become a pivotal event by presenting the best innovative solutions in energy, water, environment, and technology. This supports the UAE’s efforts to achieve the ambitious goals of the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, in line with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050,” HH Sheikh Ahmed noted.

“The exhibition, which was launched 27 years ago, confirms Dubai’s position as a major partner in formulating solutions to global climate challenges and as a leading centre for developing innovative business models that contribute to balancing sustainable economic growth with the conservation of natural resources,” His Highness said.

The exhibition, which runs from 30 September to 2 October 2025, features more than 3,100 companies from 65 countries. This impressive turnout underscores Dubai’s growing influence as a global hub for sustainability and innovation.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed was welcomed by His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA and Founder and Chairman of WETEX; His Excellency Majid Hamad Al Shamsi, Chairman of DEWA, and senior DEWA officials.

His Excellency Al Tayer said: “WETEX, which we organise under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, has become a leading platform that combines innovation, co-operation and investment.

“It allows specialised local and international companies to showcase their latest technologies and solutions in renewable and clean energy, water, environment and sustainability, establish strategic partnerships and identify investment opportunities in these sectors, in addition to exchanging expertise and best practices with prominent specialists, experts and decision-makers. This contributes to accelerating the pace of sustainable development in the region and worldwide.

The exhibition also features a rich programme of specialised seminars and panel discussions with the participation of experts, specialists and officials from major local and international companies,” HE Al Tayer added.

During a tour of WETEX, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum was briefed on the latest solutions in clean and renewable energy, water and sustainability, along with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation tools, and Fourth Industrial Revolution applications. His Highness also visited several international pavilions, including those of China, Russia, Germany, France, and South Korea. He also viewed key innovations of a number of participating companies and organisations, including Masdar, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority "RTA", Dubai Municipality, Enoc, Acwa Power, Omniyat, Damac, Binghatti, Siemens, Danway, SunTen, Riyadh Cables Group, TAQA, Gulf Eternit, Empower, Dragon Oil, Alserkal Group, Al Ghurair Group, Emirates Water and Electricity Company, and other national, regional and international institutions.

DEWA stand in focus
At DEWA’s stand, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed was briefed by HE Saeed Al Tayer on DEWA’s key projects and initiatives as well as the latest technologies and smart solutions it provides. A number of DEWA’s ambitious projects and initiatives are on display at its stand.

Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
The world’s largest single-site solar park based on the independent power producer model, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park boasts a total production capacity of 3,860 megawatts "MW".

Clean energy now constitutes around 21.5% of DEWA’s total energy production capacity. By 2030, the solar park’s total capacity will reach over 8,000MW "compared to the original plan of 5,000 MW", reducing 8.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually, up from 6.5 million. DEWA is currently in the tendering stage for the seventh phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. This phase will have 2,000 megawatt "MW" photovoltaic solar panels and 1,400MW battery energy storage system "BESS" capable of six hours of storage. Implemented under the independent power producer "IPP" model, it will be one of the world’s largest projects to combine solar energy and battery storage.

Hatta Pumped-Storage Hydroelectric Power Plant
The first of its kind in the Arabian Gulf region, it will have a production capacity of 250 megawatts, a storage capacity of 1,500 megawatt-hours, and a lifespan of up to 80 years. The project's investment value amounts to approximately AED 1.42 billion. The station has already begun trial operations and is gradually exporting electricity to Dubai for the first time.

Al Shera’a
Al Shera’a, DEWA’s new headquarters, is set to be the tallest, largest and smartest net-positive energy government building in the world. Designed to achieve the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design "LEED" platinum certification and the WELL Building Standard silver certification, the building will leverage advanced technologies including the Internet of Things "IoT", Big Data analytics and AI, alongside modern renewable energy solutions that ensure outstanding efficiency.

Hassyan Complex
The Hassyan Complex is one of the world’s largest seawater reverse-osmosis projects. The project’s first phase will have a production capacity of 180 million imperial gallons per day.

Space-D
DEWA’s Space-D programme supports the development, maintenance and planning of Dubai’s electricity and water networks, enhancing the efficiency of its generation, transmission and distribution divisions. As part of this initiative, DEWA launched two nanosatellites – DEWA-SAT1 in January 2022 and DEWA-SAT2 in April 2023 – making it the first utility globally to use nanosatellite technology to improve operational performance.

Green Hydrogen project
DEWA’s Green Hydrogen project, based at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, is the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa to produce green hydrogen using solar energy. The project has produced more than 100 tonnes of green hydrogen since launch, the bulk of which was used to generate over 1.15 gigawatt hours "GWh" of clean electricity via a hydrogen gas engine, helping to abate more than 515 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Over 11 tonnes were shipped to ENOC’s Service Station of the Future at Expo City Dubai to fuel hydrogen-powered vehicles.

EV Green Charger
DEWA’s EV Green Charger initiative delivers smart and efficient charging services that simplify and encourage the adoption of electric vehicles "EVs". Customers benefit from fast, convenient and reliable charging options designed to meet their daily needs. With a network of more than 1,500 charging points across Dubai, the initiative ensures comprehensive coverage and flexibility. The initiative also supports the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030 by promoting sustainable transport and helping to reduce carbon emissions.

EV Charge Point Operator licences
EV Charge Point Operator licences allow private sector entities to establish, operate and manage public EV charging stations across Dubai. As the licensing authority, DEWA ensures that all operators comply with the highest technical and safety standards, while maintaining transparency in pricing and service delivery. By encouraging private sector participation, the licences promote healthy competition, accelerate the expansion of Dubai’s EV charging infrastructure, and enhance the overall customer experience.

Innovative 132/11 kv digital substation
DEWA’s innovative 132/11 kv digital substations are designed to meet Dubai’s growing energy needs while setting new standards in digital optimisation and sustainability. The digital substations leverage advanced technologies in control systems, digital communications, cyber security and equipment monitoring and protection, enhancing the stability and resilience of the electricity grid. The initiative is aligned with DEWA’s strategic road map to become the world’s first AI-native utility, leveraging AI across all core operations, including energy production, transmission and distribution.

‘Chat with an Engineer’ Platform
DEWA’s new interactive platform, ‘Chat with an Engineer’, allows customers to communicate directly with DEWA experts in various technical fields via integrated digital channels. This enhances transparency and responsiveness, making the overall customer experience more flexible and seamless.

Environmental, social and governance "ESG" framework
DEWA integrates ESG principles across its operations as part of its commitment to sustainability and responsible leadership. This comprehensive framework guides DEWA’s efforts in advancing sustainable infrastructure, fostering community engagement, upholding ethical governance and ensuring transparent reporting. ESG, recognised globally as the benchmark for sustainable and responsible business practices, underpins DEWA’s strategy for long-term value creation and reinforces Dubai’s position as a global leader in sustainability.

Al Rayyan Mosque
Al Rayyan Mosque became the world’s first place of worship to achieve the LEED Zero Energy certification in 2024 and the world’s first mosque to receive the LEED platinum rating for green buildings from the US Green Buildings Council in 2021. The mosque reflects DEWA’s commitment to promote green buildings in Dubai.

XR for field operations
DEWA is adopting extended reality "XR" technologies to transform the way field operations are conducted. By using advanced XR headsets, field teams gain hands-free access to digital data and step-by-step guided workflows, enabling them to collaborate remotely in real-time. This innovative solution enhances operational efficiency, improves safety and ensures higher accuracy in maintenance and inspection activities.

Intelligent Distribution Grid
The Intelligent Distribution Grid is powered by AI edge computing, seamlessly integrating advanced sensing, automation and real-time edge controls. This enables continuous monitoring, rapid fault detection, self-healing capabilities, predictive maintenance and smooth integration of renewables, enhancing reliability, flexibility and power quality.

AI-driven net-load measurement
DEWA employs AI to calculate the net load on feeders connected to renewable energy resources within the framework of the Shams Dubai initiative. This innovative approach enhances the efficiency of network planning and design, supports effective peak load management and leverages existing meters without the need for replacement. The initiative reflects DEWA’s commitment to integrate advanced technologies that improve operational efficiency and accelerate the adoption of clean energy in Dubai.

Transmission Power Network Operation Centre
The Transmission Power Network Operation Centre serves as DEWA’s central hub for advanced monitoring of its power networks. It features an integrated OT-NOC "iNOC" for overseeing operational technology networks, 12 comprehensive dashboards offering real-time visibility on critical assets, and a visual monitoring system tailored to operational needs.

GIS-assisted alarm tracking enhances performance and resource management while Link Health Monitoring ensures reliable communication between the Transmission and Distribution Control Centres.

Aquifer Storage & Recovery "ASR" project
One of DEWA’s strategic water security initiatives, the ASR project stores surplus desalinated water in deep aquifers and retrieves it when needed. Upon completion, it will be able to store up to 6,000 million imperial gallons of water, making it the world’s largest aquifer storage and recovery project designed for emergency use.

Rammas at Work
DEWA’s AI-powered virtual employee, Rammas at Work, enhances employee productivity. Features include My Rammas, which creates custom AI agents, as well as the BRD Generator that automates the drafting of business documents, and Document Query, which extracts insights from files instantly.

Rammas Powered by GPT 4.0
Rammas Powered by GPT 4.0 answers inquiries in Arabic and English, learns continuously and streamlines customer transactions with speed and accuracy. The AI virtual assistant is available 24/7 across DEWA’s website, smart app, WhatsApp, Alexa, Instagram and more.

My Sustainable Living Programme
The My Sustainable Living Programme enables customers to monitor and improve their electricity and water consumption efficiency. The programme provides personalised insights, practical tips and tailored efficiency plans that support sustainable living. By leveraging behavioural science and applying AI-powered data analytics, DEWA helps customers make informed decisions about their electricity and water use.

Smart Response
The Smart Response service enables customers to identify and resolve electricity issues efficiently. Accessible through the DEWA app and website, it allows users to perform self-diagnostics, receive instant guidance and request technical support when required.

Smart Office
Smart Office is a unified, secure digital workplace super app that addresses enterprise operational needs. It provides employees with a 24/7, fully personalised digital experience, enhancing efficiency and collaboration.

DEWA’s website
The DEWA website is a comprehensive platform for electricity and water services, serving consumers, developers, partners, suppliers and students. The website reflects DEWA’s commitment to sustainability, innovation and customer happiness through interactive services.

DEWA’s smart app
The DEWA smart app is an interactive digital platform offering innovative bundles of services tailored to customers, developers, suppliers and students. The app delivers a seamless experience while creating added sustainable value for all stakeholders.

UAE Water Aid Foundation "Suqia UAE"
Under the umbrella of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, Suqia UAE provides clean, safe drinking water to underprivileged communities worldwide and supports innovative solutions that tackle global water crises through sustainable projects and global partnerships. Suqia also supervises the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award, with total prizes worth $1 million.

Global competitiveness
DEWA has been ranked first globally in 12 key performance indicators within its areas of work. In 2024, DEWA recorded the world’s lowest electricity transmission and distribution network losses at just 2%, compared to 6%-7% in Europe and the US. DEWA also set a world record for the lowest customer minutes lost, achieving just 0.94 minutes per year, compared to an average of 15 minutes across the European Union.