Sheikh Mohammed launches DEWA’s space programme and Hatta tourism projects

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s space programme, Space-D, that aims to build DEWA’s capabilities and train Emirati professionals to use space technologies to enhance its electricity and water networks.

It includes the launch of a main satellite equipped with the latest imaging and satellite communication technologies, which will take place alongside Expo 2020 Dubai.

The space programme is expected to contribute to enhancing flexibility and agility in monitoring and managing electricity and water networks, as well provide an accurate and rapid assessment of the impact of weather and climate change on energy supplies and energy infrastructure.

It will also provide a backup support system for the network through satellite communications.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (@HHShkMohd) launches @DEWAOfficial space program Space-D, ‘Dubai Summit’ and ‘Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls’. pic.twitter.com/ufzPiPj10k

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) January 12, 2021

“DEWA’s Space Programme will provide world-class services in cooperation with leading global satellite technology companies. The programme supports the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy’s target of obtaining 75 per cent of Dubai’s total power capacity from clean energy sources by 2050. The performance and efficiency of the photovoltaic solar panels at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park will be monitored using special cameras on the main satellite, which will also help study the impact of weather and climate change on energy infrastructure and supply,” sad Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, managing director and CEO of DEWA.

The Space-D project also involves the launch of a satellite constellation to support its main satellite. These will be manufactured by Emiratis at the Research and Development (R&D) Centre of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.

A ground station at the solar park will support ground communication transmission stations in the electricity and water networks. Multi-spectrum, high-resolution thermal imaging devices such as those used on board spacecraft, specifically designed for use in electricity and water networks, will be deployed to detect thermal fingerprints in high voltage transmission lines, substations, buildings and solar power stations.

DEWA’s tourism projects in Hatta: Dubai Summit and Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls
Sheikh Mohammed also launched two projects to be executed by DEWA: ‘Dubai Summit’ and ‘Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls.’

The Dubai Summit project includes the construction of a 5.4-kilometre cable car to transport tourists from the Hatta Dam area to the top of Um Al-Nesoor summit.

At 1,300 metres above sea level, it is the highest natural summit in Dubai. The cable car route passes over the Hatta Dam Lake and the Upper Dam Lake for the hydroelectric power station, as well as through mountains, ending at the summit of Um Al Nesoor mountain.

It will include three main stops. The departure station will be built on an upper platform above the Hatta Dam and will be linked to the car parking area. The intermediate stop will have a viewing platform and facilities to serve tourists.

The summit station will have a medium-sized hotel, a viewing platform, and other facilities for tourists.

Hiking tracks and other recreational facilities will also be built as part of the Dubai Summit project.

As part of enhancing Hatta’s position as one of the most prominent tourist attractions in #Dubai, @HHShkMohd launches 2 projects to be executed by DEWA: ‘Dubai Summit’ and ‘Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls.’ pic.twitter.com/IdLvev2pQR

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) January 12, 2021

The ‘Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls’ project meanwhile will use the slope of the upper dam to create a natural waterfall. A waterway will be built along the parking area below the dam.

The area will include recreational spaces, cafes and restaurants. The water used in the waterfall will be collected at the end of the stream, recycled and pumped back to the top of the dam.

“These projects are part of DEWA’s initiatives to provide unique job opportunities for citizens in Hatta through pioneering tourism facilities. Our new projects will contribute to strengthening Hatta’s position as one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Dubai,” said Al Tayer.

“The real value of our projects lies in their ability to achieve our strategic objectives, maximize the use of available resources, and adopt the latest innovations. Investing in and nurturing our human capital continues to be one of our biggest priorities,” added Sheikh Mohammed.