Dubai Airports to launch world's largest airport rooftop solar panel installation project

emirates7 - Dubai Airports has partnered with Etihad Clean Energy Development Company, a subsidiary of DEWA, to launch the world’s largest rooftop solar panel installation at an airport. The announcement was made in the presence of key figures, including H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, highlighting Dubai's commitment to sustainable energy.

The partnership was formalized with an agreement during the World Green Economy Summit (WGES) between Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, and Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad ESCO. Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer emphasized that this initiative aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to make Dubai one of the most sustainable cities globally. He further added that Dubai aims to achieve 25% clean energy by 2030, with a potential to exceed this target by reaching 27% clean energy by the same year, helping the emirate meet its 2050 sustainability goals ahead of schedule.

The phased solar panel project, set to generate 39MWp of clean energy by 2026, will see the installation of 62,904 panels across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International (DWC) airports. It will produce 60,346MWh of electricity annually, reducing CO2 emissions by 23,000 tonnes per year—equivalent to taking 5,000 cars off the road or powering 3,000 homes. The energy generated will cover 6.5% of DXB's power needs and 20% of DWC's, advancing Dubai Airports' vision for sustainable operations.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, emphasized that this project goes beyond just installing solar panels—it reflects the airport’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. Every kilowatt of renewable energy generated brings Dubai Airports closer to achieving a more sustainable future.

Dr. Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad ESCO, highlighted the importance of their collaboration in driving Dubai’s sustainability agenda, not only through solar energy but also by integrating sustainable solutions into the wider energy ecosystem. This project adds to the earlier solar installations at DXB’s Terminal 2 and Concourse D, which have already contributed to energy savings and emission reductions.

The project exemplifies how collaboration and innovation are key to Dubai’s long-term environmental goals, reinforcing the commitment to a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable future for the UAE.