UAE President Greenlights Construction Of 9 New Dams, Canal And Expansion Of 2 Dams To Curb Flooding Across 5 Emirates

On October 18, the UAE announced a game-changing series of water infrastructure projects designed to manage rainfall and floodwaters. With nine brand-new dams, the expansion of two existing ones, and a network of canals and embankments planned across the country, the Emirates are gearing up to turn rainwater challenges into opportunities. Guided by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s latest initiative aims to bolster flood preparedness and secure sustainable water reserves.

Nine Dams, Water Canals And More In UAE

Spanning five key emirates: Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah—the project promises to make puddle-strewn streets a thing of the past. This ambitious flood-control project involves a staggering number of upgrades to the UAE’s water infrastructure. Expect to see nine new dams popping up across the country, with two existing ones set for major expansion.

Add to that a collection of water canals and embankments, and it’s clear the UAE isn’t taking any chances with water management. The goal? To collect and store up to 8 million cubic metres of water, using both rainwater and floodwaters. Beyond simply managing storm runoff, this infrastructure is designed to boost water reserves and ensure sustainable access during both normal times and emergencies.

The new installations will be spread across 13 different locations:

‘President’s Initiatives’ Approves Water Dams, Canal Projects#UAE #AbuDhabi @MohamedBinZayed pic.twitter.com/41xzja3Y1J

— UAE Forsan (@UAE_Forsan) October 18, 2024

1. Sharjah: Shis and Khor Fakkan
2. Ajman: Masfout
3. Fujairah: Qidfa, Murbeh, Hail, Dadna, Al Seeji, and Ghazimri
4. Ras Al Khaimah: Sha’am and Al Fahleen
5. Abu Dhabi: Mohamed bin Zayed City

Part Of UAE’s National Water Security Strategy 2036

The project is in sync with the broader UAE Water Security Strategy 2036. The focus is to ensure uninterrupted access to water under both regular and emergency conditions. The strategy aims not only to curb the risks posed by heavy rains but also to mitigate the impact of climate change. With construction slated to take 19 months, the UAE is on a mission to future-proof its water management systems.

Also Read: UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed Indulges In Mass Iftar At The Grand Mosque In UAE

To Sum It Up!

These new measures reflect the nation’s proactive approach to sustainability. The collection of rainwater, previously considered a challenge, is now being transformed into a resource that will help the UAE strengthen its water reserves while keeping homes and streets dry.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images