Licensing Water Desalination

Independent Water Producers (IWPs) are set to play an increasingly important role in Dubai’s transition toward seawater desalination based on reverse osmosis (RO) technology. All IWPs must be licensed by the RSB and comply with the technical, environmental, and operational standards set out in the IWPP Code, ensuring that desalination capacity is delivered efficiently and sustainably. As the single buyer of water from large-scale desalination facilities in the Emirate, DEWA will continue to procure water under the framework of Law No. (6) of 2011, which governs the electricity and water sector in Dubai.

Regulatory Framework

Legislation

Law No. (6) of 2010 establishes the framework for regulating the electricity and water sector in Dubai.

It designates DEWA as the single buyer of water from licensed producers and empowers the RSB to issue licenses, set standards, and oversee the efficient, sustainable development of desalination capacity.

Regulatory Documents

The IWPP Code and Water Quality Regulations form key components of the RSB’s regulatory framework.

The IWPP Code defines the technical, operational, and performance standards for independent producers, while the Water Quality Regulations safeguard public health by ensuring all desalinated water meets stringent quality standards before supply to DEWA.

Licences

The water desalination licence authorises an Independent Water Producer to develop, own, and operate a desalination facility in Dubai.

Granted by the RSB under Law No. (6) of 2010, the licence ensures compliance with technical, safety, and environmental standards, enabling secure and efficient water supply to the DEWA network.

List of Water Desalination Licenses

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