Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is advancing several development projects in Hatta as part of Dubai’s broader sustainability and tourism goals, guided by the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. These initiatives are intended to promote domestic tourism, protect the environment, and showcase Hatta’s natural and historical heritage.
“Our initiatives in Hatta embody the forward-looking vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, a strategy reaffirmed by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, to help make Dubai one of the world’s most beautiful, liveable and healthiest cities. We support the strong development leap brought about by Dubai’s comprehensive development plan for Hatta, which is designed enrich the lives of its residents and create lasting positive change. Guided by the Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’ and Dubai Social Agenda 33, we aim to promote the competitive position of Hatta as a local and global magnet for tourism and investment while preserving its heritage and natural splendour. Our innovative projects meet Hatta’s social, economic and environmental needs, and support ecotourism in the UAE,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.
Hatta has been recognized internationally for its scenic appeal; Condé Nast Traveller listed it among “the 50 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the World.” DEWA is contributing to Hatta’s growth through projects that support both energy sustainability—aligned with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy—and water management. Notably, DEWA built a pumped-storage hydroelectric power station at Hatta that can supply full grid power within 90 seconds. The authority also commissioned a large desalinated water reservoir with a capacity for 30 million imperial gallons alongside microfiltration units that can treat three million imperial gallons per day for emergency use. Other infrastructure efforts include connecting water systems with other emirates as well as implementing Shams Dubai solar energy solutions.
To further attract visitors to Hatta, DEWA launched the Sustainable Waterfalls project near its hydroelectric plant. This site features what Guinness World Records recognizes as the world’s largest mosaic mural—a tribute to UAE Founding Fathers Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum—designed together with Brand Dubai.
In terms of sustainable urban development, DEWA also built Al Rayan Mosque in Hatta. The mosque has achieved three world records related to environmental design: it became the first place of worship globally to receive LEED Zero Carbon certification from the US Green Buildings Council in 2025 after offsetting more than its annual carbon emissions; it was awarded LEED Platinum certification under LEED v4 in 2021; then obtained LEED Zero Energy status in 2024. The mosque produces at least one-and-a-half times its annual energy needs via solar panels installed on-site—with excess power sent back into the grid—and features facilities such as an EV charging station and accessible areas for people with disabilities. Recycled materials were used during construction alongside advanced air purification systems to ensure healthy indoor conditions.
