GCC Power Grid Expansion Bolstered by Dhs752m Abu Dhabi Loan
Abu Dhabi Fund for Development has advanced regional energy integration by extending AED 752 million to the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority, supporting the expansion of the UAE's national grid interconnection with the wider GCC electricity network. This strategic financing, signed at ADFD headquarters in Abu Dhabi, aims to enhance cross-border power exchange and reinforce regional energy reliability.
The deal facilitates construction of a 96 km, 400 kV double-circuit overhead transmission line between the Al Silaa substation in the UAE and Salwa in Saudi Arabia. It also covers upgrades to the Gonan, Al Silaa and Salwa substations, including installation of next-generation switchgears, circuit breakers, reactors, and modern protection-control systems. These enhancements are expected to elevate transmission capacity from 2,400 MW to 3,500 MW.
Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, director-general of ADFD, emphasised the fund's role in supporting high-impact infrastructure aligned with national priorities and facilitating the transition to cleaner energy. He described the initiative as a 'strategic enabler of energy security' that will boost grid efficiency, enhance emergency readiness, strengthen partnerships across the Gulf, and enable wider integration of renewables.
ADVERTISEMENT
GCCIA CEO Ahmed Ali Al Ebrahim hailed the agreement as the first phase of a regional programme that includes grid connections with Kuwait, Oman, and southern Iraq, with total investment expected to exceed $1 billion. He also projected that expanding transmission capacity could unlock economic opportunities valued at more than $20 billion over the next 15 years.
These initiatives are central to the GCCIA's vision of forging a resilient, interconnected power system. Technical and economic feasibility studies have underpinned the project design, ensuring it meets anticipated future demand.
This expanded interconnection supports the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which targets a sustainable and cost-efficient energy ecosystem, and aligns with collective GCC goals for energy security, economic integration, and emissions reduction.
The upgrades are also set to enhance grid reliability and operational flexibility. The new 400 kV lines and upgraded substations, equipped with advanced protection and control technologies, will improve performance under stress and during emergencies, reinforcing stability across the network.
By facilitating cross-border electricity trade, the project lays groundwork for a unified Gulf electricity market. Al Ebrahim asserted this could open up significant economic potential, projecting gains exceeding $20 billion over 15 years.
The broader vision embraces enhanced integration of renewable energy, helping GCC states meet sustainability objectives. Regional interconnection enables efficient distribution of solar and wind-generated power, addressing demand variations and curbing carbon emissions in line with global climate commitments.
ADFD's financing reflects its established track record in backing infrastructure and development projects through concessionary loans. Established in 1971, the fund has supported both domestic UAE goals and international aid initiatives.
GCCIA, the body responsible for coordinating the Gulf's interconnection system, currently links Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE. The expanded network capacity will enhance its technical resilience and capacity to support growing electricity needs, including future peaks and evolving regional dynamics.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
13 hours ago
- Zawya
ThePubverse by ArabyAds and Coolita announce strategic partnership
ThePubverse by ArabyAds and Coolita Announce Strategic Partnership to Exclusively Monetize CTV Advertising in GCC and Egypt Dubai – ThePubverse, ArabyAds' dedicated media monetization solution, proudly announces a landmark partnership with Coolita, the global smart TV operating system developed by Chinese technology leader Coocaa. This strategic alliance grants ThePubverse exclusive rights to monetize Coolita's Connected TV (CTV) advertising inventory across the MENA region, marking a bold step forward in reshaping how brands connect with audiences in the evolving world of television. As part of this exclusive partnership, ThePubverse will unlock advertising access across a wide range of top global and regional TV brands powered by Coolita OS, including COOCAA, Panasonic, Skyworth, Realme, Metz, Fresh, Tornado, Thomson, Sharp, Animax, Aqua, Changchong, Sony, Toshiba, TCL, Samsung, Xiaomi, LG, Syinix, and Weyon. With Coolita OS embedded in millions of devices across these leading brands, advertisers can now tap into an expansive and diverse CTV ecosystem that spans households across the region. As consumer viewing behaviors continue to shift from traditional broadcast to digital-first environments, Connected TV is no longer a trend; it's a transformation. Coolita, already making waves in the global market with its lightweight, high-performance OS, is designed to enhance the smart TV experience across more than 80 countries. Now, thanks to this exclusive partnership, brands in MENA have a direct and seamless way to engage audiences on the largest screen in the home, through ThePubverse. 'This partnership gives advertisers direct access to real households across MENA through some of the most widely used smart TV brands, Samsung, Sony, LG, TCL, Panasonic, and more,' said Mahmoud Fathy, CEO of ArabyAds. ' Coolita's FAST channels add another layer of value, enabling ad-supported reach through quality content without paywalls. With ThePubverse, we're creating a measured, brand-safe environment where campaigns are delivered at scale with relevance and clarity.' A standout feature of this collaboration lies in Coolita's FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) Channel offering, which delivers premium content to viewers without subscription fees. These channels, natively embedded in the OS, provide a dynamic opportunity for advertisers to reach highly engaged audiences through seamless, ad-supported video environments. Coolita's OS capabilities extend far beyond traditional TVs, enabling unified ad delivery across a broad ecosystem of smart screens and devices. Its lightweight architecture allows for integration with a wide network of manufacturers, giving brands unmatched distribution and visibility. From boot-up (power-on) ads to immersive native formats, advertisers gain access to high-impact placements across a growing footprint of connected TVs in the region. Coolita's growing presence in MENA, combined with ThePubverse's proprietary monetization technology, ensures exclusive access to premium inventory and a robust foundation for measurable outcomes and regional precision. This announcement reinforces ThePubverse's role as a future-forward leader in CTV and media monetization. Beyond exclusive access, it gives brands the tools to scale intelligently, with real-time measurement, localized strategy, and tailored creative executions. About ThePubverse ThePubverse is the media monetization arm of ArabyAds, offering advanced solutions for advertisers and publishers across digital and connected TV ecosystems. By combining exclusive inventory partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and data-driven insights, ThePubverse empowers brands to scale their media outcomes in a world that rewards precision and impact. About Coolita Coolita is a smart TV operating system developed by Chinese tech leader Coocaa. Known for its lightweight design, fast performance, and intuitive user interface, Coolita powers smart TVs across more than 80 countries globally—including devices from leading brands such as COOCAA, Panasonic, Skyworth, Realme, Metz, Fresh, Tornado, Thomson, Sharp, Animax, Aqua, Changchong, Sony, Toshiba, TCL, Samsung, Xiaomi, LG, Syinix, and Weyon.
Sharjah 24
15 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
SEWA implements ambitious water network projects in Kalba
Among these, a water pipeline extension from Kalba to Wadi Al Helo has been completed at a cost of AED 47 million, with 98% of the project completed. Furthermore, the pipeline extension for the Jabal Deem project has been completed in 59% of its entirety, and 50% of the Transco line extension to the desalination facility has been completed. The primary pipelines, which span 2,184 meters, have been installed in various regions of Kalba. SEWA also approved 104 water project plans, issued 93 land clearance certificates, connected water services to 119 residential, governmental, industrial, commercial, and temporary properties, replaced 168 meters of old main lines, tested 133 smart meters, replaced 66 meters, and issued two well drilling permits. Significant Completed Works Engineer Yousef Al Hammadi, Director of SEWA's Kalba Department, explained that several key projects have been completed in recent months. These include extending a pipeline from the industrial area to Al Ghayl station at a cost of AED 5 million, replacing a main line in Tareef 4 for AED 1.6 million, and extending a water line to the new industrial area (Phase One) at a cost of AED 4 million. Water connections were also provided to various government and development projects. Furthermore, the Union Water and Electricity pipeline was integrated into SEWA's network in the Tareef area to be used in emergencies. Future Expansion Plans Al Hammadi added that future plans for Kalba's water projects include constructing a 20-million-gallon reservoir to meet the city's growing water needs, replacing old AC lines with GRE lines in Al Khuwair (Phase Two), and extending pipelines for new development projects announced by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, such as Al Hayar Lake and Jabal Deem's main station. Other plans include a new main line extension from the industrial area to Al Ghayl and the second phase of the water line extension to the new industrial area. 2024 Project Achievements He further noted that in 2024, SEWA accomplished numerous water distribution projects, including laying 6,897 meters of main pipelines across Kalba, approving 263 water project plans, issuing 352 land clearance certificates, connecting water services to 718 residential, governmental, industrial, commercial, and temporary properties, replacing 755 meters of old main lines, testing 351 smart meters, replacing 62 meters, and issuing four well drilling permits.
Khaleej Times
15 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
What's new in UAE this July: Visa-free travel, remote work, new health law
The UAE is rolling out several important changes this July that could impact every aspect of your daily life, from visa-free travel rules to how you work or run a business. Planning a summer trip? There are new visa rules you might want to know. Running a business? Emiratisation deadlines are here. And if you want to quit cigarettes, you will want to check the latest tobacco-free nicotine pouches that will be available soon. From health regulations to flexible work options and public health updates — here's a quick and easy guide to what's changing this month and how it might affect you. Visa-free travel to Armenia Armenia will offer visa-free entry to residents of the UAE starting July 1. Travellers' residency visas must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Previously, only UAE nationals could travel visa-free to the landlocked country, while residents were eligible for a visa on arrival. The new visa-free policy enables travel for tourism, leisure, or business purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It applies to all passport holders from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and to individuals holding a valid residency permit issued by any of the six Gulf countries. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Emiratisation deadline Private sector companies employing 50 or more workers have until Monday, July 1, 2025, to meet the mid-year Emiratisation targets. According to a final reminder issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), companies to ensure that at least 1 per cent of their skilled workforce comprises Emiratis for the first half of the year, part of the UAE's strategic national plan to increase Emirati participation in the private sector. Mohre will also check whether companies are meeting other related requirements, including registering Emirati employees with the social security fund and consistently paying the required contributions. Flexible summer schedules in Dubai Starting July 1, government employees in Dubai will shift to a four-day work week or reduced summer hours under the 'Our Flexible Summer' initiative. The initiative aims to improve work-life balance and productivity, and it will run until September 12, 2025. Employees will be divided into two groups, with the first group expected to work eight hours from Monday to Thursday and enjoy Friday as a full holiday. Meanwhile, the second group will work seven hours from Monday to Thursday and 4.5 hours on Friday. This is not the first time such an initiative has been announced. Last year, the Dubai government launched the campaign at 21 government entities from August 12 to September 30. Ajman will implement a new summer work policy for government employees this year, introducing remote work on Fridays and shortened weekly office hours, effective from July 1 to August 22, 2025, on Mondays. All public sector employees in the emirate will work remotely on Fridays, with weekday hours reduced by one hour. Employees will work from 7.30am to 2.30pm, Monday through Thursday. However, government entities have been directed to implement flexible internal arrangements to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of essential public services. A new UAE law coming into effect on July 29 will legalise the sale of tobacco-free nicotine pouches. The pouches are small, smokeless products that contain nicotine but no tobacco is being introduced to support individuals looking to quit smoking. Nicotine is an addictive substance. These pouches release dopamine, the 'feel-good hormone', which helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, thereby aiding smoking cessation. New health law for Dubai Dubai has enacted a new law to curb the spread of infectious diseases that will come into effect in late July. It aims to minimise health risks by controlling the spread of communicable diseases and regulating travel for individuals with such conditions. Individuals infected with or suspected of having an infectious disease are required to avoid contact that could spread the illness. They must refrain from travelling or moving, except to healthcare facilities, without the approval of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). The law also prohibits concealing infections or spreading them, whether intentionally or unintentionally. School summer holidays Schools in the UAE are gearing up for the long summer holidays, which typically begin in early July and last until the end of August. Most schools follow the academic calendar set by the Ministry of Education or respective educational authorities like KHDA (Dubai) and Adek (Abu Dhabi). As schools across the UAE begin their long summer break, working parents often lookout for summer camps to keep their children productively engaged during the two-month holiday. With families staying in the country to avoid peak travel costs or work commitments, summer camps have become a vital solution, offering children a structured environment to learn new skills and stay active. At the same time, many families also travel abroad to cooler climes, either to escape the sweltering summer heat or to spend time with relatives, making the most of the extended school break. The UAE enforced a ban on outdoor work under direct sunlight from 12.30pm to 3pm daily for three months, starting June 15. This midday break initiative, introduced to protect workers during the country's peak summer heat, will continue through July until September 15, 2025. Companies found violating the rule face a fine of Dh5,000 per worker, up to a maximum of Dh50,000 if multiple workers are involved.
