DEWA’s Space-D Programme: How Dubai Is Using Space to Power a Cleaner, Smarter Future

Dubai isn’t just reaching for the sky with its skyline - it’s reaching for space.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), recently met C hris White-Horne, Deputy CEO & Chief Delivery Officer at the UK Space Agency, on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow at Dubai World Central. Their discussion focused on a powerful idea: using space technology to make electricity and water services more efficient, reliable, and sustainable.

Image Source : Government of Dubai

Building Partnerships Beyond Earth

The meeting brought together senior leaders from both sides, including:

• Marwan Bin Haidar, Executive Vice President of Innovation and the Future, DEWA

• Dr Yousef Al Akraf, Executive Vice President of Business Support and Human Resources, DEWA

Together, they explored potential avenues of collaboration between DEWA and the UK Space Agency in space technologies, data, and innovation. The goal? To support smarter utility management and accelerate sustainable development in both countries.

Space-D: A First-of-Its-Kind Utility Space Programme

At the heart of the discussion was DEWA’s pioneering Space-D programme. Launched in January 2021 byHH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Space-D has positioned DEWA as the world’s first utility to use nanosatellites to enhance power and water networks.

Space-D uses space-based data and advanced technologies to:

• Improve planning, operation, and maintenance of electricity and water infrastructure

• Support the UAE National Space Strategy 2030

• Complement the UK’s ambitions in the fast-growing global space sector

Fourth Industrial Revolution Meets Space

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer emphasised that Space-D is a key pillar of DEWA’s strategy to integrate Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies into its operations. This includes:

• Internet of Things (IoT)

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Blockchain

By combining these with space-based capabilities, DEWA is accelerating its digital and technological transformation, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovation and smart infrastructure.

“At DEWA, we are committed to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to support the UAE’s vision and enhance our global competitiveness. Our Space-D programme is a testament to this commitment, and we are eager to explore collaborative opportunities with the United Kingdom. Such international partnerships in space technology can accelerate innovation, improve the sustainability of our utilities, and contribute to a brighter future for all,”– HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer

Supporting Dubai’s Clean Energy and Net-Zero Goals

Space-D is not just about technology – it directly supports Dubai’s climate and sustainability targets.

The programme is closely aligned with:

• Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050

• Dubai Net-Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050

By improving monitoring and efficiency at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park – the world’s largest single-site solar park – Space-D helps Dubai move towards its goal of generating 100% of its energy from clean sources by 2050.

Inside the Space-D Constellation: DEWA SAT-1 and SAT-2

Al Tayer highlighted the sophisticated infrastructure behind the programme, built around two key nanosatellites and a dedicated space-ground system.

DEWA SAT-1 (Launched January 2022)

DEWA SAT-1 tests direct-to-satellite long-range (LoRa) communication from custom IoT devices. Its applications include:

• Substation condition monitoring

• Integration of remote weather stations

• Water transmission line surveillance in locations with limited terrestrial connectivity

This allows DEWA to receive real-time data from critical assets, even in remote areas, enhancing reliability and predictive maintenance.

DEWA SAT-2 (Launched April 2023)

DEWA SAT-2 adds advanced imaging and environmental monitoring capabilities. It provides:

• High-resolution imagery

• Greenhouse gas measurements

These are used for:

• Monitoring seawater temperature and salinity near desalination plants

• Detecting oil spills

• Fog estimation, which supports operational planning

• Tracking the progress of new asset construction across Dubai

Together, these satellites form an orbital monitoring network that feeds vital information back to DEWA’s ground systems.

Ground Infrastructure and IoT Network

The satellite network is supported by:

• A dedicated ground station at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park

• A system of IoT terminals that:

  • Communicate directly with the satellites

  • Use thermal imaging to monitor the health of:

    • High-voltage transmission lines

    • Substations

    • Solar power stations

This integrated system enhances grid visibility, reduces downtime, and optimises resource usage.

A Global Model for Utilities of the Future

Commenting on DEWA’s work, Chris White-Horne said that the UK sees strong potential for collaboration and knowledge exchange:

“The UK is dedicated to fostering international collaboration in the growing space sector. DEWA's groundbreaking work in applying space technology to utility management is incredibly impressive. We see significant potential for knowledge sharing and joint innovation that can not only benefit our two countries but also set a new global standard for how space technology can enhance essential services on Earth.”– Chris White-Horne

By linking space technology with utility infrastructure, DEWA is helping define what next-generation utilities look like: smart, sustainable, data-driven, and globally connected.

Why This Matters

• For Dubai: It strengthens the emirate’s position as a global leader in clean energy, smart cities, and advanced infrastructure.

• For the UAE & UK: It opens new channels for strategic collaboration in space, technology, and sustainability.

• For the world: It provides a scalable model for how utilities can use space assets to improve efficiency, resilience, and environmental performance.

DEWA’s Space-D programme shows that the future of electricity and water isn’t just on the ground—it’s in orbit.

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Courtesy : Dubai Media Office