Over 23 million recyclables collected in 2024 through Abu Dhabi's ‘bottle return scheme'
Through its Bottle Return Scheme, the city collected more than 23 million recyclable items in 2024, including over 544,000 kilograms of plastic and 18,000 kilograms of aluminum, helping to reduce the environmental impact of waste.
Since its launch in 2023, the program has recorded over 2,000 tonnes of plastic bottles returned.
Thanks to this effort, the emirate has prevented over 3.5 million kilograms of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, supporting Abu Dhabi's goal of cutting carbon emissions by 22% by 2027.
This program encourages residents to return used plastic bottles and aluminium cans by dropping it on 'Sparklomats,' also known as Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs).
Led by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) in collaboration with cleantech company Sparklo, more than 100 RVMs have been installed across the city's popular retail outlets, making recycling more accessible and engaging for the public.
One machine even set a record by processing over 8,500 items in a single day, showing how convenient recycling can boost participation.
Officials say the success of the program proves how easy access and strong partnerships between government and private companies can drive real change.
'We seek to integrate sustainability practices into daily life in the emirate,' Sheikha Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Executive Director of the Integrated Environmental Planning and Policy Sector at EAD, said.
'This initiative, with its objectives represents a strategic investment that consolidates the concept of environmental responsibility. By supporting the principles of the circular economy, we seek to strengthen Abu Dhabi's leading position in the global transformation towards building a sustainable future,' she added.
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We also recognize that the company's strong investment appetite creates inherent execution risk in business expansion and its financial leverage is very high. We therefore assigned our 'AA-' long-term issuer credit rating on Masdar. The outlook is stable, reflecting the outlook on our sovereign rating on Abu Dhabi. Rating Action Rationale We think that Masdar has an extremely high likelihood of receiving timely and sufficient financial support from the government of Abu Dhabi. The group has the very important role of leading the emirate's renewable goals, and it benefits from having integral ties with the state government. This results in six notches of uplift from Masdar's stand-alone credit profile (SACP) of 'bbb-', leading to an 'AA-' long-term issuer credit rating. Masdar retains priority on the mandate for renewable energy for Abu Dhabi, being a key vehicle for the United Arab Emirate (UAE) in achieving its goals of tripling renewable energy by 2030. The UAE government has pledged to make the country carbon neutral by 2050 and plans to invest heavily in alternative energy sources that are both renewable and clean (see "Abu Dhabi," May 26, 2025). Masdar also plays a key role as a vehicle for strengthening ties with partner countries through the development of non-utility scale special projects. There is ample evidence and a solid track record of state support to accompany Masdar's growth. The group has thus far received over UAE dirham (AED) 20 billion in equity support from the government to finance its acquisitions on growing platforms. We think that the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is willing and able to provide extraordinary financial support should Masdar experience financial stress, particularly because Masdar's reputation globally is closely linked to that of its ultimate owner. Chart 1 Over AED20 billion in equity support to finance acquisitions on growing platforms Acquisitions help enhance portfolio quality and provide diversification benefits Masdar's strategy of acting as a platform investor and aggregator has significantly expanded its scale and diversity. From 2021 to March 2025, Masdar's gross capacity (considering operational, under construction, and committed projects) increased to 33 gigawatt (GW) from 15 GW. This trajectory was backed by a dual business model that combines greenfield development with strategic acquisitions--each supported by appropriate funding sources. The company has a portfolio of geographically diverse assets in strategic locations across the globe and exposed to well-proven renewable technologies, notably utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) and onshore wind capacity, which together account for more than 80% of Masdar's generation base. Different from its rated peers, Masdar does not carry operations in-house, but rather adopts an investor approach, outsourcing operating and construction risk to third-party contractors. Masdar's competitive advantages stem from both: Hard factors: A large, low risk asset base of its cash flow generation with 97% of revenues being generated through take-or-pay contracts with a weighted average remaining contract life of about 16 years; and Soft factors like government backing and a clear strategic mandate Although Masdar's investment appetite is aggressive, the regular equity injections from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to finance brownfield acquisitions support the sustainability of the growth strategy and underpin Masdar's sound access to capital markets and good relationships with banks. As of March 2025, Masdar has an identified advanced pipeline of 25 GW, and a long way to reach its target of over 100 GW by 2030. In addition, 15 GW out of its contracted pipeline is under development. Therefore, we cannot rule out some execution risks and high capital expenditure (capex) in its path toward its 2030 target. That said, we think that the government will step in to support Masdar because its activities have strong strategical and reputational significance for the emirate. The continuous support and the privileged access to low-cost financial resources thanks to its government links are a major differentiating factor when assessing the group's financial solidity and capacity to sustain high leverage. Despite Masdar's heightened leverage, the company--which is a pioneer in green bond financing in the UAE--managed to raise about AED10 billion so far in 2025, with a low coupon rate of about 5%. Masdar's strong diversification, government-backed growth model, and hands-off approach to distressed assets all support the deconsolidated financial analysis approach. Unlike many of its peers, Masdar's business model ensures that its financial risk profile is not tied to individual projects or their associated debt. The company's expansion is driven by government capital injections and strategic acquisitions, rather than asset monetization, further limiting its reliance on project-level cash flows. In our assessment of Masdar, we deconsolidate all nonrecourse asset-level debt and cash flows and included the dividend distributions from these projects to calculate its financial metrics. The deconsolidation is not merely because of the nonrecourse nature of the assets, but because we believe Masdar's approach to individual projects in the context of its large portfolio, in terms of business strategy, governance and influence, allows us to do so. We estimate Masdar's leverage (i.e., mostly corporate debt at the parent level) will remain high over the next two years. Masdar's deconsolidated debt-to-EBITDA is likely to increase to 5.0x-6.0x over 2025 and 2026, from 1.8x in 2024, before falling to 2024 levels as all the development activity Masdar has undertaken over the past year--particularly through the acquisitions of growth platforms--become operational and begin generating cash. Masdar's growth mandate is implemented through its disciplined and consistent acquisition strategy and framework which helps provide visibility around the evolution of cash flows. We acknowledge that, within the development cycle, Masdar's leverage ratio would also by cyclical. However, we view the company's track record of disciplined framework when it comes to its financial policy as positive. We would expect Masdar to hold majority ownership and control of its projects to maximize dividend payouts, while ensuring the deconsolidated EBITDA cash interest coverage is close to 2.0x. We would also expect the company to continue with its funding approach whereby greenfield developments are financed with nonrecourse debt at the project level with Masdar's equity being funded via green bonds at the parent level, whereas brownfield acquisitions would remain financed primarily via equity-like shareholder contributions. Equally critical for us is the expectation that Masdar would not support any distressed projects, as has been the case in the past Outlook The stable outlook on Masdar mirrors that on the sovereign rating on the Abu Dhabi (AA/Stable/A-1+), given our view that the company has an extremely high likelihood of receiving timely and sufficient financial support from the Emirate, its ultimate owner. The outlook also reflects our expectation that Masdar will continue to enjoy good funding access as a key government-related entity (GRE) in Abu Dhabi and that the emirate will support Masdar with regular equity injections for brownfield projects to reach the 100 GW target. We also expect that Masdar will maintain stable cash flows and efficient operations at the project-level, which will also support the company's leverage and growth spending over the next 12-24 months. Downside scenario We may lower the rating on Masdar in the next 12-24 months if: We lower the sovereign rating on Abu Dhabi to 'AA-'; We think that government support for the company has weakened. This could happen if Masdar becomes less strategic and integrated with the government. A shortfall or delay in supporting strategic acquisitions, or liquidity pressure on Masdar may also signal weakening of support; or At the current level of government support, the SACP on Masdar weakens by two notches to 'bb'. We think that there is substantial headroom for the 'bbb-' SACP on Masdar, considering the operating model. A downward revision of the SACP would likely be driven by a fundamental departure from existing financial policy, more than point in time credit metrics, which could be inherently volatile. Still, we could lower our assessment of Masdar's SACP by one notch if: The company fails to maintain EBITDA cash interest coverage in line with financial policy, due to an inability to upstream dividends from projects as expected; or The company revises its financial policy and approach to its balance sheet management, by undertaking aggressive recourse debt-funded spending, either to fund acquisitions at corporate level or to support distressed greenfield developments projects. Upside scenario We could upgrade the company if we raise the rating on Abu Dhabi to 'AA+', all else remaining equal. We are unlikely to raise our assessment of Masdar's SACP over the next 12-24 months, as we do not expect the company would be able to meaningfully reduce its leverage, given the company's capital spending plans over the coming years. Company Description Masdar is a registered public joint stock company headquartered in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The principal activities of Masdar are to invest or acquire participations in entities in the renewable energy, energy efficiency, carbon reduction, carbon capture and storage, and other forms of sustainability-related technologies and provision of services for reducing carbon emissions. Since its establishment in 2007, Masdar has developed and partnered in projects in over 25 countries globally. Its gross installed capacity as of March 2025 stands close to 17.5 GW, with a mix of solar PV and wind, with a mandate to increase its renewable energy portfolio capacity to 100 GW by 2030. The company is majority-owned (approximately 96% indirectly) by the government of Abu Dhabi, through shareholdings by Abu Dhabi's leading state-owned entities: Mubadala Investment Company, Abu Dhabi National Energy Co., and Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. Our Base-Case Scenario Assumptions Distributions from invested projects of AED2.0 billion-AED2.5 billion in 2025 and 2026, increasing to more than AED3 billion in 2027 following the completion of major constructions. We do not consolidate nonrecourse project-level debt, and our adjusted EBITDA includes our forecast cash distributions, proportionate to the equity ownership of the assets. Our EBITDA also includes annual development, prefinancing, and general and administrative corporate costs. Masdar-level capex of $20 million-$50 million over the forecast period. This excludes the development capex funded by nonrecourse financing. Committed equity contributions from sponsors in 2025 to support capital spending requirements. The company not making distributions to its shareholder but making minority ownership distributions. Approximately $1.5 billion in amortizing operating project-level debt in the forecast period. We note that the debt is in proportion with consolidated projects equity ownership. Key metrics Liquidity We assess Masdar's liquidity as adequate, because we expect the company's ratio of liquidity sources to uses to be about 1.6x over the 12 months ending March 31, 2026. Given Masdar's status as a GRE, it has strong banking relationships and satisfactory standing in credit markets onshore and offshore, which is supported by its low coupon rate. Masdar also has a degree of flexibility to lower capex and acquisition spending, if needed. Principal liquidity sources AED2,800 million of unrestricted cash and cash equivalents for the next 12 months; and Cash funds from operations of about AED1,000 million for the next 12 months. Principal liquidity uses No debt maturities for the next 12 months; Expected capex of AED10,000 million for the next 12 months (operating and mergers and acquisitions); and No expected dividend payments of AED944 million for the next 12 months Covenants The group's nonrecourse project financing indebtedness typically contains covenants, including debt-service coverage ratio covenants, which can restrict distributions to Masdar unless the terms are met. We acknowledge that in 2023 and 2024, the solar PV projects under construction in Uzbekistan experienced technical breaches with no financial impact for Masdar. Environmental, Social, And Governance Environmental factors are a positive consideration in our credit analysis of Masdar. The company specializes within the renewables sector, promoting clean energy solutions and abates 14 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. Masdar aims to spearhead the UAE's net zero by 2050 target and actively engages in exploring innovative technologies and partnerships that advance sustainability. Masdar's commitment to sustainability and innovation is evidenced through its involvement in the exploration of hydrogen production since 2008. Socially, Masdar remains cognizant of its responsibilities and engages local communities through education initiatives and job creation. Governance-wise, environmental, social, and governance activities are spearheaded at the board level through its Sustainability, Strategy and Investment Committee ensuring the company remains on track to develop a global clean energy portfolio with gross capacity of 100 GW by 2030. 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FCA, NYUAD OEE and NYU Silver of Social Work host graduation ceremony
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This programme equips participants with the knowledge and skills to coordinate and deliver comprehensive social care services tailored to the unique needs of families and individuals across Abu Dhabi. This pioneering programme, the first of its kind in the region, has equipped social workers with specialised, evidence-based skills derived from global best practices. Through empowering participants in this way, the programme enables them to deliver optimal family care, safeguard the fundamental rights of families and promote the well-being and resilience of the community across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. H.E. Salama Al Ameemi, Director General of the Family Care Authority, said: ' The Case Management Professional Development Programme serves as a testament to the Family Care Authority's (FCA) ongoing commitment to achieving holistic goals across the social sector, including strengthening family cohesion, elevating the quality of integrated services and building national capacity to meet the dynamic needs of Abu Dhabi's diverse community. Rooted in collaboration with key stakeholders, the programme enhances coordination, advances the effectiveness of the Emirate's family care system and furthers our vision through empowering and developing highly qualified social sector workers.' H.E. Al Ameemi, added: 'Today's graduation marks a pivotal milestone, our collaboration with our esteemed partners at NYU Abu Dhabi's Office of Executive Education (NYUAD OEE) has provided us with an innovative framework that will continue to reinforce and scale our impact. Together, we are fostering a more inclusive, compassionate and resilient community, one where every individual is supported, equipped and empowered to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the community.' In line with Year of Community 2025 and its theme, 'Hand in Hand', the graduation reflects the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi's vision to strengthen the well-being of independent and stable families. Additionally, it further reaffirms FCA's dedication to unifying efforts that enhance collaboration and integration among relevant stakeholders, supporting the development of an integrated social case management system and improving responsiveness and quality of services provided to target groups. Dr. Michael A. Lindsey, Dean of the NYU Silver School of Social Work, said: "We are proud to partner with NYU Abu Dhabi's Office of Executive Education and the Family Care Authority in delivering a programme that enables practitioners in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to acquire the necessary tools, knowledge, and global perspectives for effective social case management. This social work professional development program is the first of its kind in the UAE, and it reflects our shared commitment to developing compassionate, evidence-based social care systems that respond to the needs of individuals and families. The programme serves as a model for how academic institutions and government entities can work together to create a sustainable social impact." The graduates have commenced their work across service centres in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. They are actively applying their newly acquired core skills in integrity, honesty, transparency, respect, accountability, care and compassion, essential for effective case management, to strengthen the delivery and impact of family care services. The training programme, delivered by NYU's Silver School of Social Work, was launched under a joint memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance case management effectiveness through targeted professional development. The programme focused on essential skills, internationally recognised best practices and a specialised emphasis on children, adolescents, the elderly and people of determination. In addition, participants completed field visits to leading social institutions in New York City, gaining exposure to global best practices in social care and protection. This experience facilitates the integration and adaptation of international expertise to effectively meet the unique needs of the Emirate's community During the ceremony, graduates celebrated the knowledge and skills they acquired over the nine-month programme, reflecting FCA's steadfast dedication to promoting a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing across Abu Dhabi's social sector. About Family Care Authority The Family Care Authority (FCA) in Abu Dhabi is dedicated to the governance and regulation of the social sector, with a strong emphasis on empowering families to achieve self-reliance. An affiliate of the Department of Community Development, the FCA is mandated by the Abu Dhabi government to provide comprehensive and proactive support to families across the Emirate. With a steadfast commitment to confidentiality, the FCA collaborates with strategic partners to offer integrated services, including counseling, inclusion and empowerment, Safe Shelter, and Awareness and Community Outreach, and Foster Family services. Through its family file management system, the FCA ensures seamless access to advanced services, fostering a nurturing environment for individuals and their families to thrive. In accordance with Abu Dhabi Executive Council's Resolution No. 9 of 2024, the Family Care Authority's mandate and roles have been expanded to integrate sheltering and humanitarian care services, and rehabilitation and empowerment programmes for victims of violence and human trafficking. For further information and to stay up to date on news and announcements, please visit: or follow us: Instagram | X (Twitter) | Facebook | LinkedIn For media enquiries, please contact: Maroun Farah Senior Media Relations Manager, Weber Shandwick E: mfarah@
