Dubai’s electricity and water networks demonstrated exceptional resilience during recent regional geopolitical tensions, operating without interruption despite widespread disruptions elsewhere, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa), said Tuesday.
Speaking at a Dubai Press Club event, Al Tayer described Dubai’s power infrastructure as among the most reliable globally, with annual electricity outage durations averaging less than one minute per customer. He noted that this level of reliability is rare, significantly surpassing that of many international cities.
Al Tayer attributed the utility’s robust performance to long-term strategic investments driven by the UAE leadership’s vision. These include the deployment of smart grid technologies, digital infrastructure enhancements, and comprehensive preventive maintenance programs. Since 2017, Dewa has leveraged artificial intelligence to enable predictive maintenance and accelerate responses to technical faults, positioning it as a global pioneer in integrating AI into utility operations.
While recent regional crises triggered interruptions in electricity, water, and fuel supplies in several countries, Dubai maintained uninterrupted service. Al Tayer emphasized the utility’s contingency planning, citing the maintenance of alternative supply scenarios and the strength of its infrastructure. Cybersecurity emerged as a top strategic priority amid thousands of daily attempted cyberattacks, with specialized teams continuously monitoring and protecting the network.
The authority employs over 2,000 specialists in fields including energy, information technology, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Advanced monitoring systems facilitate fault detection prior to customer impact, enabling proactive interventions.
Al Tayer highlighted the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park as a cornerstone of Dubai’s evolving energy strategy. The solar park aims to achieve a capacity of 5,000 megawatts by 2030. Complementary large-scale energy storage projects, including one of the world’s largest thermal energy storage facilities using molten salt technology, support reliable supply during periods of low solar generation. Additionally, early investments in hydrogen position it as a prospective clean fuel of the future.
With continued growth in population and tourism, Dewa engages in forward-looking demand forecasting and development of new infrastructure. Al Tayer noted that Dubai typically experiences accelerated growth following crises, necessitating planning that accommodates both current and future needs.
He described the authority’s service model as founded on efficiency, innovation, and customer satisfaction, stressing that delays are unacceptable. Digital service platforms and smart payment channels contribute to a customer happiness rate exceeding 98 percent.
Al Tayer concluded that Dubai’s approach remains centered on resilience, innovation, and preparedness to ensure sustained excellence in utility services.