
Abu Dhabi Department of Energy unveils strategic framework for energy, water sector through 2050
29 May 2025 14:41
ABU DHABI (WAM)The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) announced its comprehensive strategic framework for the energy and water sector through the year 2050.The announcement was made during its participation in the 2025 World Utilities Congress, at ADNEC Abu Dhabi Center, with the participation of decision-makers, senior officials, and experts in energy, water, and sustainable technologies.This announcement comes in light of the rapid economic growth witnessed by the emirate of Abu Dhabi, with its GDP surpassing the one trillion dirham mark, reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing economies globally. The energy and water sector has played a vital role in supporting this exceptional growth.On this occasion, Dr. Abdulla Humaid Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, stated, 'This strategic framework represents a comprehensive roadmap for the future of the energy and water sector in the Emirate. It is built upon an ambitious vision aimed at transforming the sector into a global model of efficiency, innovation, and sustainability, in line with our wise leadership's aspirations to build a diversified, net-zero economy by 2050.'He added, 'We continue working to cement Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for innovation in energy, powered by artificial intelligence and advanced digital solutions.'The new strategic framework is based on four main objectives: Ensuring secure and sustainable supply, Achieving the highest levels of efficiency in supply and demand, Supporting decarbonisation efforts through smart and economically efficient means, Maximising the economic value of energy and water resources.The framework also includes the implementation of key programs such as digital transformation, expanding investments in artificial intelligence, enhancing international partnerships, developing national talents, and regulatory reforms aimed at encouraging private sector participation and attracting international investors.The plan aims to attract up to Dh400 billion in foreign direct investment by 2050 and increase local content in key supply chains to 65 percent, along with achieving 100 percent Emiratisation of critical jobs in the sector.This framework strengthens economic growth opportunities by attracting capital and global technologies, thereby reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for sustainable energy.The Department of Energy reaffirmed its commitment to leading the development of policies, strategies, and regulatory systems for this vital sector. It also emphasised strengthening cooperation with local and international entities and empowering society to contribute to the journey toward a more prosperous and sustainable future.
In conclusion, the Department of Energy called on innovators and thinkers from around the world to join its journey toward a sustainable future, affirming that this framework is a platform for innovation and fresh thinking to address challenges and deliver solutions that contribute to the prosperity of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Al Etihad
15 hours ago
- Al Etihad
Seamless departure in 12 minutes: UAE airports set global benchmark in digital efficiency
ABU DHABI (WAM) Selim Bouri, President for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) at SITA, a global leader in air transport IT and communications, has confirmed that airports in the UAE, particularly those in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have established new global benchmarks in innovation, efficiency and passenger experience. He noted the country's clear commitment to digitalisation and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, particularly in light of the increasing challenge of managing growing passenger volumes. In remarks to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Bouri explained that SITA works closely with UAE airports to understand their unique needs and opportunities, providing tailored technology solutions, pointing to the implementation of the Smart Travel system at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi—a fully integrated platform for biometric identity processing. This system, he noted, reduces congestion and waiting times while enhancing airport capacity to handle the rising number of international flights. Zayed International Airport experienced strong growth in flight traffic in 2024, making it essential to adopt digital solutions to meet this surge. Bouri described the airport's experience as a testament to the value of advanced biometric processing, highlighting that since the opening of its new terminal in November 2023, the airport has processed over one million passengers using facial recognition. This has created a unique digital identity for each traveller, enabling a seamless journey from check-in to departure—including border control—in under 12 minutes. The success of the Smart Travel system at Zayed International Airport, he added, paves the way for its adoption at other airports across the UAE. On future technologies passengers can expect at UAE airports, Bouri said that the country's travel experience is increasingly powered by smart solutions that provide efficiency and convenience. He revealed plans to expand biometric processing across airport checkpoints, delivering a fully contactless passenger experience. Self-service technologies, he said, will be a core focus area in the coming years. These include self-check-in kiosks, automated baggage drop services, and smart boarding gates, all aimed at reducing congestion and streamlining travel procedures. Cybersecurity also remains a top priority within the UAE's airport digital strategies. Bouri emphasised that smart innovations will play a key role in boosting efficiency, minimising waiting times, enhancing safety and reinforcing the UAE's status as a leader in smart, integrated airport systems. He added that the coming decade will witness a significant increase in the deployment of next-generation communication technologies within airports. This will create a highly integrated smart airport ecosystem and flight operation network. Bouri discussed the impact of 5G networks on enabling seamless device-to-device communication, benefitting passengers, systems and operations through improved ground connectivity. He also pointed to future support for sixth-generation network technologies and advanced wireless internet services. Airports, airlines and governments in the Middle East, known for their leadership in innovation, are investing heavily in the latest technologies to enhance passenger experience and streamline airport operations. These include biometric processing systems and e-gates backed by strategic initiatives and major investments. Addressing the role of artificial intelligence and big data in improving flight management and reducing delays, Bouri explained that although airports, airlines and partners generate vast amounts of data, it is not always fully understood or leveraged. Over the next decade, he said, future-ready airports will increasingly rely on big data, predictive analytics and advanced platforms to achieve peak operational efficiency. The growing role of AI and robotics, he clarified, does not eliminate the human factor but rather fosters smart collaboration between people and technology. Bouri concluded that the next decade will see AI extend to more sectors, enhancing flight scheduling, personalised communication with passengers, operations centre support, predictive maintenance, multilingual assistance, automated baggage handling and reduced fuel consumption for autonomous vehicles. AI will also be used by airports and governments to improve security screening and increase the accuracy of threat detection.


Al Etihad
16 hours ago
- Al Etihad
UAE wins presidency of General Assembly of UN-Habitat
30 May 2025 19:52 ABU DHABI (WAM)The UAE has achieved a new diplomatic milestone by winning, for the first time, the presidency of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and securing membership in its Executive unprecedented achievement was shared with the Republic of Malaysia, following a highly competitive election during the Assembly meetings being held in Nairobi, international recognition reaffirms the UAE's leading role in supporting sustainable urban development, housing initiatives, and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The UN-Habitat General Assembly, composed of 193 member states, is the programme's highest decision-making body. It is responsible for guiding global policies aimed at improving living conditions in cities and enhancing the quality of life in urban this occasion, Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, expressed his pride and honour in this international achievement, which adds to the UAE's distinguished record of emphasised that the UAE's election as President of the UN-Habitat General Assembly is a recognition of its significant efforts, guided by the vision of its wise leadership, in establishing the nation as a comprehensive model for adequate housing and sustainable urban Mazrouei said, 'This remarkable achievement reflects the vision and directives of the UAE's wise leadership, which has made housing and urban development a strategic priority, recognising it as a fundamental pillar for social stability and quality of life. The leadership has directed efforts toward providing an integrated housing environment that ensures well-being and dignity for all citizens and residents. It has also launched numerous national initiatives and programs that have contributed to developing a modern housing system and offering innovative and sustainable solutions to meet the needs of various segments of society.'He added, 'The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme stands as a prominent example of this integrated national vision. Since its establishment in 1999, the programme has successfully enhanced family stability, met the demand for government housing, and provided decent housing for Emirati citizens. Through this victory, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to continue contributing to global housing and urban planning efforts. The country will work to deepen cooperation with all 193 member states of the General Assembly, with the goal of developing sustainable, inclusive cities that are capable of meeting future challenges.'He affirmed that the UAE will leverage this leadership role to support the implementation of Goal 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which focuses on 'making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.'He also pointed out that the joint presidency with Malaysia and membership in the UN-Habitat Executive Board will open new avenues for strengthening dialogue among member states and for exchanging the best international experiences and practices. He stressed that the UAE will lead joint efforts to promote innovation in urban housing and to present pioneering models for addressing the challenges of rapid urban growth and climate Minister continued, 'We will continue working with member states, civil society organisations, and the private sector to develop clear visions and innovative action plans that meet the needs of global communities and provide adequate and safe housing for all people. We consider this responsibility a great honour and an opportunity to further enhance the UAE's international record.'He added, 'We will work hand in hand with all international partners to embed the principles of sustainable urban development and lead global efforts toward urban transformation, aiming to create a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable living environment for all.'For his part, Eng Mohamed Al Mansouri, Director-General of Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, said, 'This achievement is a true reflection of the UAE's dedicated efforts in developing a sustainable and smart urban housing system. The Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme remains one of the most vital national pillars that has strengthened the UAE's global standing in this field by offering innovative housing solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and environmental and social sustainability.'Al Mansouri also extended his appreciation to the national team from the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy in Nairobi, for their outstanding efforts over the past three and a half years, which began with the candidacy file and culminated in successfully securing international support for key UN-Habitat leadership added, 'We are fully geared to enhance cooperation with member states and share the UAE's pioneering experience in building integrated urban communities characterised by diversity and innovation, in line with our leadership's vision for achieving sustainable development.' He further noted that the UAE's presidency of the UN-Habitat General Assembly will bolster its status as an influential international partner in shaping future urban policies and support the country's drive to maintain momentum in sustainable development efforts both regionally and globally.


Gulf Today
20 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Make-A-Wish, Taqa bring hope to critically ill kids
Make-A-Wish UAE has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with TAQA to strengthen corporate social responsibility and bring hope to children battling critical illnesses through collaborative initiatives. The signing ceremony took place at the TAQA Stand (Arena) during the World Utilities Congress held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, in the presence of Hani Al Zubaidi, CEO of Make-A-Wish UAE, and Hamad Al Hajri, Chief Corporate Support Officer of TAQA, alongside senior executives and representatives from both organisations. This strategic partnership aims to expand institutional humanitarian efforts by collaborating on impactful initiatives that provide emotional and psychological support to children and their families. The MoU also reflects TAQA's deep-rooted commitment to social responsibility and opens the door to a range of future initiatives in partnership with Make-A-Wish UAE, including volunteering opportunities for TAQA employees to actively contribute to wish-granting activities and events. Commenting on the occasion, Hani Al Zubaidi stated, "This MoU embodies our shared vision with TAQA to inspire hope and joy in the hearts of children facing critical illnesses, and to enhance the role of government-related entities in championing humanitarian causes. "We are grateful for TAQA's generous commitment and belief in our mission, and we are confident that this partnership will lead to meaningful, lasting impact in the lives of our wish children and their families.' Hamad Al Hajri stated, 'Sustainability extends beyond environmental protection; it is also about how we care for our communities. Make-A-Wish UAE supports children and families during some of their most difficult moments, and through this partnership, we can channel our resources towards that purpose. Every child deserves moments of joy, and we are honoured to contribute to a cause that brings hope where it is needed most.' The MoU serves as a model for corporate-community collaboration, paving the way for a series of programmes and events tailored for children with critical illnesses. It reinforces Make-A-Wish UAE's position as a leading humanitarian organisation and underscores TAQA's ongoing support of impactful community-driven initiatives.