Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer is widely recognised as an influential figure in the Middle East, particularly for his transformative leadership as the managing director and CEO of DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority).
With over three decades of experience in vital sectors like energy, water, and infrastructure, Al Tayer has been at the helm of DEWA since 1992, guiding it to global recognition and firmly establishing Dubai as a leading hub for clean energy and sustainable development.
Al Tayer’s vision extends far beyond operational efficiency; he is a fervent advocate for innovation and sustainability. He frequently emphasises that “facing environmental issues is everyone’s responsibility”. This philosophy underpins his leadership, driving DEWA’s commitment to clean energy and digital transformation.
According to DEWA’s publicly released performance data under Al Tayer’s guidance, DEWA has consistently ranked among the world’s best utilities, achieving top positions in numerous key performance indicators, including the world’s lowest electricity customer minutes lost (CML), averaging just 0.94 minutes per customer. His influence resonates regionally and internationally, stemming from his unwavering commitment to pioneering technologies and strategic foresight.
Al Tayer has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives that align with ambitious national strategies such as the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategy and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, aiming for 100 per cent clean energy production capacity by 2050.
A cornerstone of this ambition is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, the world’s largest single-site solar park, which he has overseen the development of. He often mentions in media reports that “innovation is more than just a goal for us [DEWA]. It is a key pillar in our journey towards the future and the cornerstone of the development of our services and initiatives.”
This commitment extends to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) across DEWA’s operations, making it the world’s first AI-native utility and pioneering the use of technologies like intelligent gas turbine and plant controllers.
Beyond DEWA, Al Tayer holds significant positions that underscore his impact, including being a member of the Dubai Executive Council and Strategic Affairs Council, and vice chairman of the Dubai supreme council of energy.
His leadership style fosters an environment where innovation thrives, providing employees with opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge solutions.
