In the wake of unprecedented flooding, Dubai has announced an ambitious $8 billion plan to construct a comprehensive stormwater runoff system, reports Zawya. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Dubai's ruler, revealed the project on the social media platform X, detailing that construction would commence immediately, with an expected completion by 2033.
The announcement follows severe flooding two months ago, which left the city immobilized and exposed the inadequacies of its existing rainwater drainage infrastructure. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the scale and significance of the project, stating, "This network will cover all areas of Dubai and will absorb more than 20 million cubic meters of water per day."
Designed to boost the emirate's rainwater drainage capacity by an impressive 700%, the new system aims to enhance Dubai's preparedness for future climate-related challenges. Sheikh Mohammed described it as the largest such network in the region, underscoring its vital role in safeguarding the city’s infrastructure and residents.
The April 16 deluge, marked by record rainfall, inundated homes and transformed streets into rivers, significantly disrupting daily life. The lack of adequate storm drains exacerbated the situation, even affecting operations at Dubai International Airport, the busiest airport globally for international travel.
This new infrastructure project represents a critical investment in Dubai's future, aiming to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events and support the city's continued growth as a global business hub.
