Dubai Municipality has officially awarded five new contracts aimed at enhancing the rainwater drainage network as part of the second phase of the “Drainage” program, with a total investment of 2.5 billion dirhams. This ambitious initiative will serve 30 key areas across 430 million square meters, projected to accommodate a population of three million by 2040. The program underscores Dubai’s commitment to improving its infrastructure while adapting to the challenges posed by climate change and rapid urban expansion.
Details of the New Contracts
The newly awarded contracts were signed with a selection of leading international companies renowned for their expertise in infrastructure projects. Key participants include DeTech Contracting and the China Estate Construction Engineering Corporation, alongside specialized consultancy firms. The agreements consist of three execution contracts and two design and study contracts that will focus on the rainwater drainage systems in designated areas within the emirate.
A Strategic Approach Toward Urban Resilience
This recent announcement builds upon a previously disclosed package from April 2025, which was the first set of four projects in the initial phase of the rainwater drainage program. The move reflects a strategic and phased approach by the Municipality to enhance the rainwater drainage system and prepare the city for future climatic changes and urban growth demands. The new projects represent a significant leap toward creating a comprehensive and adaptable drainage system aimed at minimizing water accumulation risks and improving overall infrastructure efficiency.
Key Components of the Infrastructure Improvements
The projects include the construction of a main tunnel with a diameter of four meters that will connect urban communities along Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and Al Yalayes Streets to the main drainage network. This initiative is designed to increase the capacity for water flow and provide high operational flexibility, all while supporting sustainable urban growth in one of the emirate’s most pivotal areas.
Another vital aspect involves creating an integrated drainage network between Sheikh Zayed Street and Al Jamail Street, extending 27 kilometers, which will feature sophisticated tunnels and networks. This project will enhance transportation routes and bolster infrastructure flexibility in key industrial and logistical development areas, ensuring business continuity and reducing water pooling issues.
Comprehensive Design Contracts
Additionally, Dubai Municipality has awarded contracts for the design of an integrated rainwater and groundwater drainage system in the Al Marmoom and Saih Al Salam regions, connecting them to the main drainage network along the Al Qudra corridor. This initiative emphasizes sustainable practices and aims to maintain the environmental balance while supporting tourism and residential activities in these key ecological areas.
This new package from the “Drainage” program, valued at 30 billion dirhams, showcases Dubai’s unwavering commitment to developing a smart, flexible infrastructure supported by innovative engineering solutions. It aims to solidify Dubai’s position as a global leader in sustainability and urban resilience.
Director General of Dubai Municipality, Engineer Mrowan Ahmed bin Ghulaita, stated, “The Drainage program is a fundamental pillar for developing the emirate’s infrastructure and making it more sustainable, reflecting our proactive approach to sustainable urban planning.” His sentiments highlight the project’s aim to enhance the quality of life for the residents and visitors of Dubai through improved urban management.
As this ambitious plan unfolds, Dubai continues to push forward, ensuring its infrastructure is not only equipped to handle present demands but is also resilient enough to meet future challenges. This significant investment in the rainwater drainage network marks another step toward a sustainable urban future.