The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has initiated a tender inviting qualified entities to undertake the seventh phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park project. This ambitious project includes the installation of photovoltaic solar systems with a capacity of 2,000 megawatts, along with battery storage systems capable of 1,400 megawatts for six hours. Such an approach will deliver a total storage capacity of 8,400 megawatt-hours, positioning it as one of the largest solar projects with storage enhancement worldwide. The project will be executed under the independent power producer model and plays a pivotal role in supporting Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 as well as the emirate’s Carbon Neutrality Strategy 2050, which aims for 100% of energy production to stem from clean sources by 2050.
Vision and Strategy Behind the Project
According to Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, the Managing Director and CEO of DEWA, this pioneering project aligns with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. Al Tayer emphasized the goal of making Dubai a global hub for clean energy and a green economy. He stated, “We are working under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to solidify Dubai’s position as a global model in sustainability and innovation in clean energy.” The seventh phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is deemed a strategic step in the ongoing efforts to diversify the energy mix in the emirate, aiming to boost the share of renewable and clean energy.
Enhancing Renewable Energy Targets
In light of this new initiative, Al Tayer announced an increase in the target for renewable energy in Dubai’s energy mix to 36% by 2030, compared to the previously planned 25%. Upon the completion of the seventh phase, the total planned capacity of the solar park will rise to 8,060 megawatts by 2030. This is expected to contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions by more than 8.5 million tons annually, reinforcing Dubai’s leadership in adopting the latest technologies for sustainable energy production and storage.
Current Progress and Future Prospects
Currently, the solar park has an operational capacity of 3,860 megawatts, with an additional 800 megawatts under construction. DEWA has received over 49 expressions of interest from companies eager to participate in the execution of the seventh phase, with the initial request for qualification documents released on May 16, 2025. The tender for qualified developers was subsequently issued on October 20, 2025.