Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, DEWA, and Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority, ADWEA, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, for strategic water connections and the exchange of potable water in case of emergencies, or other purposes, between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

This is part of the efforts of both parties to ensure that water security is sustainable and to establish strategic water reserves in the UAE. The MoU supports the strategic objectives of the federal government of the UAE.

The MoU was signed by Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, and Dr. Saif Saleh Al Seiari, Director-General of ADWEA.

"This agreement supports our joint efforts to promote water security in the UAE, and achieve the objectives of the National Agenda of the UAE Vision 2021 to ensure a sustainable environment and preserve water resources in the UAE. It also supports our strategy to enhance the efficiency of the water network by working together to achieve the strategic objectives of the Federal Government of the UAE and the recommendations of the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036. It strengthens the cooperation between ADWEA and DEWA as this strategic National project will contribute to improving the reliability of water systems in Dubai and Abu Dhabi," said Al Tayer.

Al Tayer noted that this strategic initiative began in 2007 when both entities coordinated to study the possible options for water interconnection between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This cooperation will help prevent crises and any water shortages. The two organisations will work to secure the needs for their ambitious development plans by increasing the efficiency and operational capacity of their water networks, to meet growing demand for their services. This, in turn, will contribute to the sustainable development of the UAE.

According to the MoU, DEWA and ADWEA will conduct a feasibility study for water interconnection between the two networks, including all available options and final recommendations regarding the best technical options. The two parties will agree on the consultancy services tender, list of bidders interested in participation, bids’ evaluation, and awarding the tender that will include the consultancy services for preparing studies and detailed designs for the connection points.

Source: Wam