Emirates Water and Electricity Company (Ewec) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to qualified developers and developer consortiums interested in developing the new Abu Dhabi Islands Reverse Osmosis (RO) independent water project (IWP). 

The project encompasses the construction of 2 separate RO seawater desalination plants on Saadiyat Island and Hudayriat Island. These greenfield facilities are designed to operate with low-carbon intensity, prioritizing sustainability. Collectively, they will produce 100 million imperial gallons per day (MIGD) or approximately 455,000 m3 of potable water daily. The architectural design of both plants will showcase visual enhancements that reflect the environmentally friendly RO technology employed in the Abu Dhabi Islands RO project. 

Out of the 41 companies and consortiums that expressed interest (EOIs), 19 have advanced to the Request for Proposal (RFP) stage. The project entails the complete lifecycle of the plant and its associated infrastructure, including development, financing, construction, operation, maintenance, and ownership. The selected developer or developer consortium will hold a maximum of 40% equity in the entity, while the Abu Dhabi Government will indirectly hold the remaining equity. The deadline for submitting the RFPs has been scheduled for Q4 2023.