A joint venture between Orascom Construction and Metito, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company PJSC (ADNOC) and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (TAQA), has announced plans to develop, possess, and operate a large-scale seawater treatment and water transportation project in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, UAE. The project is estimated to have a value of up to $2.4 billion. Orascom Construction will lead the consortium.
The initiative will be financed through a special purpose vehicle (SPV) using a build, own, operate, and transfer (BOOT) model for a period of 30 years. ADNOC and TAQA will jointly hold a 51% stake in the SPV, while Orascom Construction and Metito will each own 24.5%, making up a total of 49%.
The ambitious project will include the construction of a brand-new seawater nanofiltration plant with a capacity to treat over 110 million imperial gallons per day (500,000 m3/day). Additionally, it will encompass seawater intake and outfall facilities, pumping stations, a water transmission pipeline spanning approximately 75km, and an extensive in-field distribution network exceeding 230km. These infrastructure components will support reservoir pressure maintenance in Abu Dhabi’s Bab and Bu Hasa fields.
By replacing the existing aquifer water injection systems used for maintaining reservoir pressure in ADNOC’s onshore oil fields, this project aims to ensure a sustainable water supply for ADNOC’s onshore operations while safeguarding the UAE’s natural aquifer resources. Moreover, the initiative is projected to enhance energy efficiency by up to 30% and reduce ADNOC’s environmental impact compared to the current injection system.
Osama Bishai, CEO of Orascom Construction, commented, “We are proud to partner with ADNOC and TAQA to deliver a project that is key to the sustainable development of the UAE’s oil and gas sector. We started our focus on important water projects over a decade ago and have since played a major role in undertaking some of the most complex projects in this sector. We are also very pleased to strengthen our presence in the UAE as we continue to target strategic projects in the region across sectors in which we have developed strong expertise. This project also plays a key role in our growth strategy to pursue infrastructure investments that provide both construction opportunities and long-term recurring income.”
Rami Ghandour, Metito Managing Director, emphasized, “The UAE established its name as the leader for knowledge-based, future-focused economic strategies and a leader in combating climate change and promoting water positivity. Being a global hub for innovations and sustainable practices, this mega project is testament of how capitalizing on technology can revolutionize industry norms and practices to best preserve valuable water resources and the environment. Over the years Metito has built a strategic project portfolio of mega concession projects and iconic world and industry firsts and we are confident this will be a landmark project and a global milestone. We are honoured to be part of this.”