USD 8.2 Billion Project to Transform Rainwater Management in Dubai

In a landmark initiative to fortify Dubai’s infrastructure against extreme weather events, the emirate has announced a new AED 30 billion (USD 8.2 billion) project, known as ‘Tasreef,’ dedicated to significantly expanding and modernizing its rainwater drainage system. Prompted by record-breaking rainfall in April—the most severe in 75 years—this comprehensive project aims to safeguard the city’s readiness to manage increasing climate risks, which experts link to the intensifying impacts of climate change.

The April downpours wreaked unprecedented disruption across Dubai, leading to extensive road closures, property damage, and operational delays at Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest air hubs. Tragically, the extreme weather also claimed four lives. The crisis spurred Dubai’s leaders to prioritize solutions that enhance the city’s defenses against future weather extremes, recognizing the Gulf region's susceptibility to rising temperatures, humidity, and flooding risks.

Under the directive of Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Tasreef project is projected to be completed by 2033. It will bolster Dubai’s rainwater drainage capacity by an extraordinary 700%, allowing for the efficient collection and management of over 20 million cubic meters of rainwater daily. This new system is poised to become one of the largest rainwater management infrastructures in the region, reinforcing Dubai’s strategic plans to address its climate-related vulnerabilities well into the next century.