Taqa Water Solutions, a leader in sustainable water solutions, has announced an AED150 million ($41 million) transformative wastewater management project that is set to redefine infrastructure standards in the Al Bahia and Al Sadr regions of the UAE capital.

The project has been awarded to Gulf Contractors Company, in a move that reinforces Taqa’s commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi’s urban development strategies and socio-economic growth, said the company.

The project, which was announced during the World Utilities Congress last month, will see the development of a 9.5-km deep gravity-driven line along with the decommissioning of a number of pumping stations, thus minimising energy consumption and reducing carbon emissions in line with the UAE’s sustainability goals, states the developer.

This asset enhancement scheme will significantly increase overall hydraulic capacity to 120,000 cu m per day, effectively serving the needs of the rapidly developing areas in Al Bahia and surrounding areas such as Al Sader, Al Shaliela and Taweelah, it adds.

Managing Director and CEO Engineer Ahmed Al Shamsi says: “This project embodies Taqa’s proactive approach to ensuring the long-term water security of Abu Dhabi, while embracing the principles of a circular economy.”

Taqa Water Solutions and Royal Gardens Agricultural Contracting officials sign the deal.

“By investing in large-scale modern and efficient wastewater infrastructure, we are not only meeting the needs of our growing communities but also transforming wastewater from a byproduct into a valuable and sustainable resource, which aligns with our commitment to responsible resource management to safeguard water security for future generations,” notes Al Shamsi.

Engineer Hatem Hassan Shahin, General Manager of Gulf Contractors Company, says: “This project aligns with our engineering excellence and environmental responsibility plans. Gulf Contractors is proud to partner with Taqa Water Solutions on this landmark project that showcases sustainable infrastructure development.

“We understand the importance of reliable and sustainable infrastructure for thriving communities, and we are excited to leverage our expertise in supporting our partner in delivering a world-class wastewater management system that will serve Al Bahia community for generations to come.”

The project is being developed in close collaboration with key stakeholders including Al Dar, Abu Dhabi Housing Authority, and the Department of Municipalities and Transport.

In line with its commitment to  environmental conservation and sustainable water management, Taqa Water Solutions has also signed a contract with Royal Gardens Agricultural Contracting to create a thriving Ghaf tree grove in Al Wathba.

Through this collaboration, over 1,000 Ghaf trees will be planted around the main pumping station of a strategic tunnel, and irrigated entirely with recycled water from Taqa Water Solutions’ state-of-the-art wastewater treatment facilities. Each tree, with an average longevity of 120 years, can absorb approximately 4,200 tonnes of carbon dioxide during its lifespan, Taqa Water Solutions points out.

By utilising recycled water for irrigation, the company is demonstrating the transformative potential of circular water solutions to significantly reduce the demand for precious freshwater resources.

Taqa Water Solutions says it has already achieved a regional record by recycling 80 per cent of the water being utilised across the emirate, with the target to reach 100 per cent utilisation through plans to expand its application and use across wider industries, further contributing to the UAE’s 2050 Net Zero strategy.

Al Shamsi says: “Optimising our reuse of water for irrigation is a challenge that we are successfully turning into an opportunity. The Al Wathba Ghaf Grove is a great example of wastewater supporting greening efforts in urban and rural areas, helping to build a greener, more sustainable future for Abu Dhabi and the UAE. The Ghaf tree is integral to the UAE’s incredible ecosystem, and it gives us pride to play a key role in preserving the nation’s most precious natural resources through the power of sustainable water solutions.”

Dr Ahmed Al Sharafi, CEO of Royal Gardens Agricultural Contracting,  says: “We are proud to partner with Taqa Water Solutions on this inspiring project that aligns perfectly with our shared commitment to environmental sustainability. The Ghaf tree holds a special place in the UAE’s natural heritage, and we are thrilled to be part of this initiative.”

Scheduled for completion in December 2024, this project contributes to the UAE’s target to reach Net Zero by 2050 as Ghaf trees are known for their resilience and carbon sequestration capabilities, acting as natural carbon sinks and helping mitigate the effects of climate change.