By Desmond Nleya
Dubai Municipality has awarded contracts worth AED2.5 billion for five major stormwater infrastructure projects under Phase Two of the Tasreef Programme, strengthening the emirate’s drainage capacity and climate resilience in line with directives from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The projects will cover 30 key areas spanning approximately 430 million square metres and are designed to support a population of three million residents by 2040. Contracts were awarded to international infrastructure firms including China State Construction Engineering Corporation and DeTech Contracting, along with specialised consultancy partners. The package includes three execution contracts and two design and study agreements.
The announcement follows Phase One awards issued in April 2025 and reflects Dubai’s phased strategy to modernise infrastructure and improve preparedness for extreme weather and rapid urban expansion. The initiative aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and national climate neutrality objectives.
According to Dubai Municipality, the projects aim to reduce flood risks, improve drainage efficiency, and support sustainable development while enhancing quality of life. Officials described the Tasreef Programme as a key long-term infrastructure initiative focused on resilience and operational readiness.
Major works include construction of a main drainage tunnel up to four metres in diameter linking communities along Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Al Yalayis Road to the primary stormwater network. An integrated drainage system extending more than 27 kilometres between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jamayel Road will also be developed to support industrial and logistics corridors.
Additional plans include a modern pumping station and drainage tunnel along Dubai–Al Ain Road, as well as design work for integrated stormwater and groundwater systems in Al Marmoom and Saih Al Salam.
The projects form part of the wider AED30 billion Tasreef Programme, reinforcing Dubai’s long-term commitment to resilient infrastructure and sustainable urban growth.
