Latest news with #smartinfrastructure
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
DEWA enhances its emergency preparedness through smart infrastructure and proactive plans
Dubai, UAE: Many regions around the world, including Europe and the Americas, face significant challenges in ensuring the stability of energy and water networks, especially with the increasing pressures resulting from climate change, digital transformation and rising demand. In 2025, several European countries experienced frequent power outages due to weather fluctuations and inefficient ageing infrastructure, among other reasons. This gap highlights the importance of smart infrastructure and proactive investments, which Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) embodies through its world-leading systems. DEWA is the government entity responsible for the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity, as well as the provision of desalinated water in Dubai. Committed to the highest standards of reliability, sustainability and efficiency, DEWA champions smart and innovative solutions to achieve net zero. In recent years, the corporation's customer base has grown significantly, with the number of accounts rising to 1,270,285 by the end of 2024, an annual increase of 4.85%. These figures reflect DEWA's commitment to meeting rising utility demands in Dubai while also enhancing service quality and emergency preparedness. DEWA is implementing strategic projects to enhance the efficiency and reliability of electricity and water networks. These include the continued expansion of transmission and distribution infrastructure, as well as initiatives to raise production capacity and advance storage and clean energy systems to ensure network stability. With a production capacity of 17,879 megawatts of electricity and 495 million imperial gallons of desalinated water per day, DEWA's state-of-the-art infrastructure meets the highest international standards. DEWA developed a smart grid strategy that relies on artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to monitor its networks and analyse 15 million data points daily, enabling immediate detection and remote repair of faults before they escalate. These systems contributed have contributed to DEWA recording the world's lowest electricity customer minutes lost (CML) per year, with an average of 0.94 minutes in 2024. Over the last 10 years, DEWA has outperformed leading utility companies in the Europe and the United States. Water distribution system losses stood at 4.5%, ranking among the lowest globally. Line losses in electricity transmission and distribution networks were 2%, compared to 6%-7% in Europe and the US. DEWA has become a global role model for energy efficiency and reliability, as well as for keeping pace with growing demand. DEWA continues to enhance its operational capabilities and develop its smart infrastructure through well-considered plans and strategic investments. These efforts keep pace with rapid growth in demand for essential services while supporting the development of Dubai's vital infrastructure in line with its sustainability vision and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050. 'We work in line with the vision of our wise leadership to provide sustainable and reliable electricity and water services, while enhancing readiness and resilience for emergencies and crises. We apply the best international practices in risk management and business continuity, supported by an advanced digital infrastructure and smart systems that contribute to monitoring proactive indicators and responding immediately to emergency situations,' said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA. 'We continue to strengthen co-operation with various government and private organisations to ensure co-ordinated efforts and to enhance the emirate's readiness to deal with various operational and environmental scenarios. This integrated approach highlights DEWA's commitment to building an advanced and flexible infrastructure that supports sustainable development in the emirate of Dubai and provides the highest levels of comfort and safety for residents and visitors, in line with the UAE's plans and strategies to achieve leadership in global competitiveness indicators,' added Al Tayer. Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Centre In 2014, DEWA launched the first phase of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Centre for water transmission at its Sustainable Building in Al Quoz. This is part of DEWA's efforts to achieve digital transformation using cutting-edge operational technology. It enables round-the-clock remote monitoring of Dubai's 2,300-kilometre water network, including transmission pipelines, pumping stations and reservoirs – a feat made possible by the installation of more than 8,500 smart devices. DEWA is currently implementing the second phase of the system to include the water distribution network, and is continuously expanding the transmission network. Proactive measures to deal with emergencies DEWA is enhancing the resilience and reliability of electricity networks in emergency situations through smart infrastructure supported by the latest Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies. These efforts include expanding the use of smart grid systems, which rely on an integrated set-up of advanced sensors, automatic controls and artificial intelligence. These technologies allow real-time monitoring of network performance and detect imbalances within a fraction of a second. DEWA's electricity transmission lines extend over 15,000 kilometres, supported by a network of smart substations managed remotely via advanced SCADA systems. This ensures stable electrical supply even in exceptional circumstances. DEWA also adopts proactive strategies to manage sudden faults, including alternative electricity supply routes to minimise downtime. Additionally, DEWA uses nanosatellites, drones and smart robots to periodically inspect overhead and underground lines, and to predict potential issues before they escalate. DEWA is also increasing the share of clean energy through the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park and the 250MW hydroelectric power plant in Hatta, which enhances network resilience, offering a sustainable source of supply during crises. Modern energy storage systems also contribute to load balancing and provide an emergency reserve that ensures service continuity. Smart Response DEWA's Smart Response service, accessible through its website and smart app, allows customers to diagnose electricity and water interruptions. It also streamlines reporting processes and reduces the time needed for technical team visits. In the event of a power outage in a home or building, DEWA advises customers to identify the affected areas and check the internal distribution board. If a circuit breaker is disconnected, a qualified technician may be required. If all breakers are on, customers can follow the Smart Response instructions on the smart app. For water interruptions, DEWA recommends that water tanks and internal connections comply with its specifications to ensure continued supply, including a tank with a 24-hour capacity. These systems should be maintained regularly to prevent blockages. The DEWA Store on the smart app lists approved maintenance companies offering exclusive discounts for DEWA customers. Guidelines and tips to ensure safe and uninterrupted electricity and water supply during rainfall are available at Community readiness is also crucial. DEWA conducts joint training exercises with government and private sector entities to simulate complex emergency scenarios, such as large-scale outages or severe weather, to ensure technical teams are prepared and response plans are in place in line with international best practice. This is supported by digital platforms that allow customers to report faults and receive real-time updates, reinforcing DEWA's commitment to quality and sustainability. DEWA also provides several communication channels for customers to submit reports around the clock, along with smart apps that enable them to monitor and report outages easily. These services help shorten response times and reduce the impact of service interruptions.
The Sun
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Top secret residents prepare to move into £8billion robot ‘city of the future' with driverless cars & AI-powered homes
RESIDENTS are preparing to move into Toyota's futuristic robot city, where everything is connected with driverless cars and AI-powered homes. While just the seed of an idea a decade ago, the £8billion 'Woven City' project has flourished into something real and liveable. 6 6 6 And it is set to welcome its first 100 residents this autumn. Residents will have a few months of tranquility before the city opens to tourists - dubbed 'Weavers' - from 2026 "or later", according to Toyota. These individuals will mostly be Toyota staff and their families, before branching out to include "external inventors" and their loved ones. The total population is expected to reach around 2,000. At the base of the Mount Fuji volcano in Japan, the development will host a range of top-secret tests for new technologies, according to reports. While normal civilians will also call this robot city home, so shall Toyota's employees - who will be conducting experiments for some of the company's more hushed ideas. Toyota, which builds robots as well as cars, has been building up the 175-acre site for the past five years. The self-contained metropolis aims to be a beacon for future mobility, smart infrastructure and sustainable living. First announced at CES 2020, the Woven City is now just months away from accepting its first residents. The futuristic city will act as a "living laboratory" for the company to test its renewable and energy-efficient self-driving cars dubbed 'E-palettes'. Toyota's E-palettes, an autonomous electric vehicle platform initially developed for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, will be at the core of the project. Self-driving cars will be the main form of transport inside the Woven City, according to Toyota, supported by an underground network for autonomous logistics and goods delivery vehicles. The autonomous vehicles feed into a wider network led by artificial intelligence (AI). AI robot nurse with creepy 'face' taking over hospital jobs as it patrols halls, delivers meds and tracks patient vitals "We are building a city where everything, people, buildings, vehicles, is connected through sensors and AI," Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota's Board of Directors, has said previously. "It's a unique opportunity to create a living digital operating system for urban life." Streets will be split into three types, pedestrian-only areas, roads for fast-moving traffic and streets for a mix of lower-speed vehicles. Only zero-emissions motors will be allowed with special vehicles for the elderly and support for wheelchair users. Smart homes will be designed to incorporate robotics and AI to monitor health and manage energy use. It echoes what futurist Stephen Oram envisions for future British cities, where wearable health tech alerts of a condition, prompting a robot delivery system to turn up "with some medication you didn't know you needed". The stunning new "smart homes" will run almost entirely on hydrogen, making the city as eco-friendly as possible. Houses, made mostly from wood, will include in-home robotics to "assist with daily living" helping residents to be more independent, according to the company. 6 6 6
Zawya
03-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
OETC completes fault current limiter project
MUSCAT: Oman Electricity Transmission Company (OETC) announced the successful completion of all construction and commissioning works for the Fault Current Limiter (FCLR) project on the 132kV transmission network in Muscat. The project has a total investment value exceeding RO 4 million. The Fault Current Limiters (FCLs) are installed to limit fault current to a safe level without interrupting the circuit, thereby protecting transformers, circuit breakers, cables, and other infrastructure from excessive thermal and mechanical stress. They also help avoid costly equipment upgrades when fault levels exceed design ratings due to system growth or new network interconnections, and ensure the overall stability, safety, and reliability of the electricity network while maintaining uninterrupted power supply to other parts of the grid. This project is part of OETC's ongoing efforts to enhance the sustainability and resilience of the national transmission network, in line with the company's strategic objectives to improve efficiency, reduce system failures, and ensure swift emergency response using modern smart technologies and global best practices. Commenting on the achievement, Eng Masoud bin Salam al Riyami, Chief Operations Officer at OETC, stated: "This project marks a significant milestone in improving operational efficiency and the quality of power supply. It reflects our commitment to investing in smart infrastructure that ensures optimal grid performance and meets national energy development goals." He further highlighted the company's strategic five-year plans to assess network conditions and implement both current and future projects aimed at building a world-class smart grid capable of adapting to growing demand and sectoral transformation. "OETC is fully committed to continuous development, cost-effective investments, and adopting high-standard systems to maintain a reliable and sustainable power transmission network. The FCLR system is a key step in that journey," Al Riyami added. OETC, a member of Nama Group, is the only company responsible for the transmission and control of electricity across the Sultanate of Oman's network. The electricity is transmitted from production stations to distributed load centers in the governorates. The transmission network operates at a voltage of 132kV and above to cover All of the governorates in the Sultanate of Oman. Furthermore, OETC manages the interconnections between Oman and the GCC interconnection network, which operates at a voltage of 220kV.
Zawya
29-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dragonpass sets new benchmarks for premium travel in the GCC
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dragonpass International (Dragonpass), the world's leading provider of digital airport ecosystem platforms, is redefining the travel experience in the GCC. With over 2.7 million customers in the region, we've seen a 100% year-on-year increase in customers transitioning from analog to digital. This growth aligns with the broader development visions shaping the future of the GCC. Regional strategies, including Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the UAE's Urban Plan 2040, emphasize smart infrastructure, elevated quality of life, and seamless urban mobility—all priorities that mirror Dragonpass's commitment to frictionless, tech-enabled travel. Across the GCC, international tourism is surging, with Saudi Arabia welcoming 30 million visitors and the UAE's major airports seeing over 48 million international arrivals in the past year. The demand for seamless, value-rich travel experiences has never been higher. Dragonpass's growth has been powered by its flexible and collaborative approach to market entry and expansion. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all model, the company partners closely with local organizations to co-create solutions that reflect the unique cultural and consumer dynamics of each GCC market. This localized agility has enabled Dragonpass to rapidly scale its operations and emerge as a preferred platform for both travelers and regional businesses seeking to enhance the travel experience. A key differentiator is Dragonpass's advanced technology platform, which aggregates travel services and loyalty benefits into one unified and personalized user experience. Strategic partnerships with leading blue-chip organizations based in the Middle East allow the company to deliver high-value offerings that combine exclusivity, convenience, and relevance. Dragonpass has also expanded well beyond traditional airport benefits. The platform now offers access to over 2,150 curated travel experiences, including Fast Track and a wide array of dining options. Dragonpass has recently launched a new lifestyle module focused on wellness and fitness. Members can now access more than 1,000 fitness and wellness locations across 50 major cities in over 25 countries—meeting the growing demand in the region for holistic, on-the-go wellbeing. 'The GCC is redefining the future of global travel, with innovation at the core of how experiences are delivered and valued,' said Andrew Harrison-Chinn CMO at Dragonpass. 'The GCC is a strategic growth market for us, home to highly discerning travelers who expect seamless, premium, and personalized journeys. By co-creating with forward-thinking partners and investing in technology-led solutions, we're not just responding to regional demand — we're helping shape a smarter, more elevated travel ecosystem across the region.' About Dragonpass International: Dragonpass is a global leader in digitally enabled airport and travel services, offering access to over 1,400 airport lounges, 161 Fast Track lanes, 516 dining benefits, and other premium travel experiences. Supporting over 40 million users worldwide, Dragonpass partners with leading banks, card issuers, and travel providers to deliver seamless, customer-centric solutions. Headquartered in the UK, which serves as its global business hub, the company manages key partnerships and operations across a global network. Dragonpass also maintains regional offices in markets including UAE, Singapore, Brazil, South Africa, Japan, and China—reflecting its commitment to delivering locally relevant solutions at a global scale. For media inquiries, please reach out to: Duha Shabib | Founder | The Halo Agency duha@ Sara El Niel | Account Manager | The Halo Agency sara@
Zawya
23-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Invest Qatar, Schneider Electric partner to accelerate smart infrastructure development
Doha: Invest Qatar, the Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar, has entered into a strategic partnership with Schneider Electric, a global leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation. The collaboration aims to support the company's expansion in Qatar and accelerate the development of smart infrastructure and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions within the country's rapidly growing business ecosystem. Signed during the Qatar Economic Forum, the agreement outlines a collaborative framework to advance Schneider Electric's operations in the country. This includes contributing to the development and expansion of Qatar's AI innovation and smart infrastructure landscape, while nurturing a future-ready workforce. As part of its expansion, Schneider Electric plans to grow its local team, contributing to job creation and talent development in the country. The company will also collaborate with Invest Qatar on a range of learning and development initiatives aligned with Qatar's Third National Development Strategy (NDS3). These efforts will be supported by Schneider Electric's Services Training Centre, located in its newly inaugurated office in Msheireb, Qatar's most sustainable and digitally enabled district. Schneider Electric will offer comprehensive upskilling programmes for Qatari talent and tailored training for customers on automation and smart city technologies. By integrating global technological expertise with local market insights, the partnership aims to further boost Qatar's transition toward a technology-driven economy. Invest Qatar will provide Schneider Electric with tailored support services, facilitate access to key stakeholders and promote initiatives that drive AI adoption, smart infrastructure development across strategic sectors. The partnership will also help raise awareness of Schneider Electric's strategic contributions to Qatar's innovation and sustainability agenda. Commenting on the partnership, Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO, Invest Qatar, said: 'We are pleased to partner with Schneider Electric and support its successful business growth journey in Qatar. The company's decision to deepen its presence underscores Qatar's position as an ideal hub for tech innovation and sustainable development. Together, we look forward to driving progress across key sectors and supporting Qatar's transition to a knowledge-based economy.' Louie Jarouche, Country Manager for Qatar & Kuwait, Schneider Electric, commented: 'We are proud to strengthen our presence in Qatar, a country whose bold vision for sustainable development and digital transformation mirrors our own. Through our partnership with Invest Qatar, we are harnessing our global expertise in digitalization and electrification solutions to help accelerate the country's smart infrastructure and AI ambitions. This collaboration reinforces our shared commitment to advancing a future-ready, low-carbon economy by empowering local talent and enabling innovation across key sectors in line with Qatar's Third National Development Strategy.' © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
