Dubai: Sheikh Mohammed announces a Dh30-billion rain drainage network

An integrated project to develop a comprehensive rain drainage network in Dubai has been approved at a cost of Dh30 billion, announced Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, on Monday. This ambitious project, named ‘Tasreef’, aims to significantly enhance the capacity of Dubai’s rainwater drainage system by an impressive 700%, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all areas within the emirate.

The ‘Tasreef’ project is designed to be a landmark initiative, with its construction slated to begin immediately and a targeted completion date set for 2033. Upon completion, the new drainage network will have the capacity to serve Dubai efficiently for the next hundred years, underscoring its long-term strategic importance. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that this project is not just a temporary solution but a sustainable infrastructure development that will benefit Dubai for generations to come.

The scale of the project is unprecedented in the region. It will cover every area of Dubai, absorbing more than 20 million cubic meters of water per day, making it one of the largest networks for collecting rainwater in the Middle East. The comprehensive coverage will ensure that all parts of Dubai are well-equipped to handle heavy rainfall, thereby mitigating the risk of flooding and waterlogging that the city has occasionally faced in the past.

‘Tasreef’ is a continuation of Dubai’s ongoing efforts to enhance its infrastructure. It builds on previous drainage projects launched in 2019, which included significant developments in the Expo Dubai area, Al Maktoum International Airport City, and Jebel Ali. These prior projects laid the groundwork for the extensive network envisioned under ‘Tasreef’, showcasing Dubai’s commitment to continuously improving its urban infrastructure.

This initiative comes in the wake of unprecedented rainfall that recently flooded parts of the UAE, highlighting the urgent need for an advanced and efficient rainwater management system. As a sustainable strategic project, ‘Tasreef’ aims to address the future impacts of climate change, such as increased and unpredictable rainfall. The network is designed to seamlessly adapt to all types of rainfall events, providing a robust solution that ensures the city’s resilience against climate variability.

A key feature of the ‘Tasreef’ project is the use of the latest Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM), which are the largest of their kind in the Middle East. These machines are renowned for their efficiency, speed, and high precision in excavation. They are capable of handling various topographical conditions, ensuring that the construction of the drainage network can proceed smoothly and effectively. The use of advanced TBMs demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology in its infrastructure projects, ensuring high standards of quality and durability.

The ‘Tasreef’ project represents a monumental step forward in Dubai’s infrastructure development. By investing Dh30 billion into this integrated rain drainage network, Dubai is setting a new benchmark for urban planning and sustainability in the region. The project not only addresses immediate concerns related to rainfall and flooding but also positions Dubai as a forward-thinking city prepared to tackle future climate challenges with innovative solutions.