The consortium formed by Etihad Water and Electricity (EWE), Saur and TAQA Solutions has entered into a commercial agreement with Ras Al Khaimah Wastewater Authority (RAKWA) to deliver the Emirate’s first large-scale public-private partnership (PPP) wastewater project. Structured under a DFBOMT model (Design, Finance, Build, Own, Operate, Maintain and Transfer), the initiative represents a major step in Ras Al Khaimah’s move toward advanced and sustainable water management systems.
This achievement reinforces Saur’s ability to deploy global expertise on technically complex wastewater infrastructure projects in demanding contractual and operational environments. It also demonstrates the Group’s proven approach to managing large-scale assets within long-term public-private partnerships.
Within the consortium, Saur will serve as the lead shareholder and principal operator, overseeing operations and maintenance (O&M) for the full concession period. The project reflects Saur’s strong commitment to environmental responsibility, combining low-carbon infrastructure with circular economy practices to create a more sustainable wastewater management model for the region.
The new treatment plant will run on renewable energy, significantly lowering carbon emissions across its entire operational lifespan. This approach supports long-term decarbonization goals while ensuring reliable and efficient performance.
Initially designed to treat 60,000 cubic meters of wastewater per day, the facility will later expand its capacity to 150,000 cubic meters. A key priority is the reuse of treated sewage effluent (TSE) for irrigation and industrial applications, helping reduce reliance on energy-intensive desalination processes.
The contract also includes the development of a fully integrated system, covering the independent sewage treatment plant, gravity sewer networks, pumping stations and transmission infrastructure. Backed by an investment of approximately USD 300 million, the project will deliver resilient, high-performance infrastructure capable of meeting growing water demand while maintaining rigorous environmental and governance standards.
Luis de Lope, CEO of Saur International, stated “We are proud to contribute to this strategic development in Ras Al Khaimah. The collaboration of our international teams reflects our dedication to long-term partnerships grounded in environmental performance. This project supports our vision of transforming wastewater into a valuable resource while reducing operational emissions.”
The agreement further strengthens Saur’s position as a trusted operator for major metropolitan water systems. Following projects in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, this milestone in the United Arab Emirates highlights the Group’s capacity to manage integrated water systems where reliability and sustainability are essential. It also showcases the transfer of expertise developed in European markets to technically advanced international projects.
