The Growth of Renewable Energy Projects in Dubai: Key Developments & Trends

Hi Dubai

29-04-2025

Dubai has emerged as a global leader in renewable energy, driven by ambitious strategies and groundbreaking projects that align with its vision for a sustainable future. The emirate's commitment to clean energy is exemplified by initiatives like the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, aiming to produce 100% of its energy from clean sources by mid-century. As of early 2025, Dubai has achieved approximately 20% of its energy mix from clean sources, reflecting significant progress towards these goals.
Central to this transformation is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the world's largest single-site solar park, which is set to expand its capacity from 5,000 MW to 7,260 MW. This expansion is expected to increase the share of clean energy in Dubai's energy mix from 27% to 34%, further solidifying the city's leadership in renewable energy. ​
Complementing these efforts is Expo City Dubai, a model for sustainable urban development. Powered entirely by renewable energy through a partnership with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Expo City embodies Dubai's commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation. The city has also attained pre-certifications from globally recognised sustainability systems, underscoring its role as a benchmark for future urban planning.
This article delves into the key government initiatives propelling Dubai's renewable energy agenda, highlights the major projects currently in operation, explores upcoming initiatives, and examines the trends shaping the emirate's sustainable energy landscape. Government Initiatives Driving Renewable Energy Growth
Dubai's transformation into a global hub for clean energy is underpinned by a series of strategic government initiatives aimed at diversifying the energy mix, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable development.​
Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050
Launched in 2015, the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 aims to produce 100% of the emirate's energy from clean sources by 2050. The strategy is built upon five key pillars: infrastructure, legislation, funding, building capacities and skills, and an environmentally friendly energy mix. A cornerstone of this strategy is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is set to achieve a capacity of 5,000 MW by 2030, significantly contributing to the emirate's clean energy goals. ​
Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050
Complementing the Clean Energy Strategy, the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050 outlines the emirate's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by mid-century. This strategy encompasses various initiatives, including the integration of renewable energy sources, the enhancement of energy efficiency, and the adoption of sustainable practices across different sectors. ​
Role of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
DEWA plays a pivotal role in implementing Dubai's clean energy initiatives. The authority has launched several projects, such as the Shams Dubai initiative, which encourages the installation of photovoltaic panels on rooftops, and the development of smart grids to optimize energy distribution. DEWA's efforts are instrumental in driving the transition towards a sustainable energy future.
Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE)
The DSCE serves as the governing body responsible for policy development and strategic planning in Dubai's energy sector. It coordinates with various stakeholders to implement energy efficiency programs, promote renewable energy projects, and ensure the alignment of energy policies with the emirate's sustainability goals. ​
Through these comprehensive initiatives and the collaborative efforts of key institutions, Dubai is steadily progressing towards its vision of a sustainable, clean energy future. Major Renewable Energy Projects in Operation
Dubai's commitment to renewable energy is exemplified by several large-scale projects currently in operation. These initiatives not only contribute significantly to the emirate's clean energy targets but also position Dubai as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions.​
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park stands as the world's largest single-site solar energy project. As of April 2025, the park boasts an operational capacity of 3,660 megawatts (MW), with ongoing developments aimed at increasing this capacity further. The sixth phase of the project, currently under implementation, is expected to add an additional 1,800 MW using photovoltaic solar panels.
Once completed, this phase will reduce approximately 2.36 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually and provide clean energy to around 540,000 residences in Dubai. The park's expansion aligns with Dubai's Clean Energy Strategy 2050, aiming to reach a total capacity of 7,260 MW by 2030, contributing 34% to Dubai's total energy mix. ​
Green Hydrogen Project
In a pioneering move, Dubai inaugurated the Middle East and North Africa's first industrial-scale, solar-driven green hydrogen facility. Developed in collaboration with Siemens Energy and Expo 2020 Dubai, the project is situated at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. The facility produces approximately 20 kilograms of hydrogen per hour, with storage capabilities for up to 12 hours of hydrogen produced via solar energy.
This green hydrogen is utilized to generate electricity through a hydrogen gas motor with a capacity of around 300 kilowatts. The project has already generated over 1 gigawatt-hour (GWh) of energy and reduced about 450 tonnes of CO2 emissions, marking a significant step towards sustainable energy production.
Shams Dubai Initiative
The Shams Dubai initiative, launched by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), encourages residential and commercial building owners to install photovoltaic (PV) panels on their rooftops to generate electricity. The electricity generated is used on-site, and any surplus is exported to DEWA's grid.
As of early 2025, the initiative has facilitated the installation of over 500 MW of solar capacity across various buildings in Dubai. This program not only empowers consumers to contribute to the emirate's clean energy goals but also promotes energy efficiency and cost savings. ​
Hassyan Seawater Desalination Plant
Addressing the critical need for sustainable water sources, Dubai is developing the Hassyan Seawater Desalination Plant, which will be the world's largest desalination plant powered by solar energy. Commissioned by DEWA and ACWA Power, the plant will have a production capacity of 180 million imperial gallons per day (MIGD) of desalinated water, serving approximately two million people.
The facility employs reverse osmosis (RO) technology, known for its energy efficiency, and is part of DEWA's efforts to increase its water desalination capacity to 730 MIGD by 2030. The project underscores Dubai's commitment to integrating renewable energy into essential infrastructure.
Hotpack Global's Rooftop Solar Project
Demonstrating the private sector's role in Dubai's renewable energy landscape, Hotpack Global has completed the installation of a 2.2 MW rooftop solar power system at its manufacturing facility in National Industries Park, Dubai. This installation is one of the largest in the area and is projected to generate approximately 3.52 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean energy annually.
The project significantly reduces Hotpack's dependence on conventional power sources and aligns with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 goals. Such initiatives by private entities complement government efforts and highlight the collaborative approach towards a sustainable future. ​ Upcoming Projects and Future Initiatives
Dubai's renewable energy landscape is poised for significant expansion, with several ambitious projects and initiatives on the horizon. These developments aim to enhance the emirate's clean energy capacity, integrate advanced technologies, and support sustainable urban growth.​
Expansion of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is set to undergo further expansion with its seventh phase. This phase involves the development of a photovoltaic (PV) facility with a capacity ranging from 1.6 to 2 gigawatts (GW), coupled with a 1 GW battery energy storage system (BESS) capable of providing six hours of storage. This integration of large-scale storage will enable the dispatch of clean energy around the clock, enhancing grid stability and reliability. ​
Floating Solar Photovoltaic Projects
Dubai is exploring the potential of floating solar photovoltaic (FPV) systems to maximize land use efficiency and harness solar energy from water bodies. A notable initiative includes the development of a 1,000 MW floating solar project at the Jebel Ali water reservoir, which is set to be completed in 2025. Additionally, a small-scale floating solar installation is being tested at Hatta Dam to evaluate the feasibility and performance of FPV systems in the region. ​
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
To address the intermittency of renewable energy sources and ensure a stable power supply, Dubai is investing in advanced battery energy storage systems. A pilot project at a DEWA substation in Al Quoz involves a 1 megawatt-hour (MWh) BESS that stores solar energy and supports grid stability. Furthermore, the integration of a 1 GW BESS with the upcoming phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park underscores the emirate's commitment to energy storage solutions.
Smart Grid Development
Dubai is advancing its smart grid infrastructure to optimise energy distribution, enhance efficiency, and accommodate the increasing share of renewables. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is implementing its Smart Grid Strategy 2021–2035, which encompasses initiatives such as grid automation, demand-side management, and the deployment of advanced metering infrastructure. These efforts aim to create a more resilient and responsive energy system. ​
Expansion of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
In line with its sustainability goals, Dubai is expanding its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to promote green mobility. The EV Green Charger Initiative, launched by DEWA, has led to the installation of over 400 charging stations across the emirate. Plans are underway to increase this number to 1,000 by 2025, facilitating the adoption of EVs and reducing transportation-related emissions.
Dubai's journey towards a sustainable future is marked by ambitious strategies, innovative projects, and a steadfast commitment to clean energy. The emirate's efforts, from the expansive Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park to pioneering initiatives like the Green Hydrogen Project, underscore its role as a leader in renewable energy adoption.​
The integration of advanced technologies, such as battery energy storage systems and smart grid solutions, further enhances the efficiency and reliability of Dubai's energy infrastructure. These developments not only support the emirate's clean energy goals but also contribute to global efforts in combating climate change.​
Looking ahead, Dubai's focus on sustainability extends beyond energy production. Projects like the Dubai Green Spine and the expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure reflect a holistic approach to environmental stewardship, encompassing urban planning, transportation, and community engagement.​
As Dubai continues to implement its Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, the emirate sets a benchmark for other cities worldwide. Through strategic investments, policy frameworks, and public-private partnerships, Dubai demonstrates that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.​
In conclusion, Dubai's renewable energy initiatives represent a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to sustainability. By embracing innovation and fostering collaboration, the emirate is well-positioned to achieve its vision of a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.​ Also Read:
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