Hassyan 180 MIGD Phase 1 IWP

United Arab Emirates

On 29 March 2024, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and Saudi Arabia's ACWA Power announced the financial close of the 180 million imperial gallons per day reverse osmosis seawater desalination plant project in Hassyan, as part of DEWA's strategy to increase Dubai's desalination capacity.

The project is the largest of its kind globally, with an investment of c. USD 1 billion, to produce water based on seawater reverse osmosis technology using solar energy. DEWA is the sole offtaker and a 60% shareholder in the Project Company, with ACWA Power and EIG sharing the remaining 40% equity.

Deloitte was appointed as the lead and financial adviser to DEWA on the procurement of the Hassyan Independent Water Plant (IWP) and was supported by WSP, as technical adviser, and Addleshaw Goddard as legal adviser on this transaction.

DEWA had previously attempted to procure the IWP (120 MIGD capacity) twice, which was facilitated by another advisor consortium, but were unsuccessful in securing a financial close. This desalination plant is strategically important for Dubai given growth in population.

This significant transaction is DEWA’s first water desalination plant procured on an IWP basis and will ensure water security for Dubai in the coming years.