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Practices

Flood ProtectionWater Resource Infrastructure and ResiliencyHydraulic Engineering and ModelingSewage, Drainage, and Irrigation

Markets

UtilitiesGovernment AgenciesLocal Government

Improved east Deira’s stormwater system to reduce flooding and support Dubai

CDM Smith’s approach combines data collection, site surveys and advanced hydraulic modeling to assess east Deira’s stormwater network. We prioritized cost-effective solutions, including SuDS alternatives and overflow pipes, while reserving full network upgrades as a last resort. Comprehensive design, tender preparation and technical evaluations ensured robust flood mitigation. 

Flood risk reduction for communities 

Our solutions help alleviate flooding in east Deira, improving safety and accessibility for residents and commuters. By addressing runoff and network capacity issues, the project ensures reliable stormwater management and protects urban infrastructure.

Cost-effective engineering solution 

We prioritized economical approaches, such as optimizing pump operations and introducing SuDS alternatives, reserving full network upgrades only when necessary. This strategy delivers robust results while minimizing financial and construction impacts for Dubai Municipality.

Advanced technical assessment 

We utilized state-of-the-art modeling tools (SewerGEMS, InfoWorks ICM) and comprehensive site investigations to accurately assess the stormwater system’s capacity, pump stations and outfalls, ensuring data-driven recommendations and long-term resilience. 

End-to-end project delivery

From initial surveys and design to tender document preparation and contract evaluation, we provided complete consultancy services. This holistic approach supported Dubai Municipality in achieving project goals efficiently and transparently. 

Dubai Municipality engaged CDM Smith to upgrade and rehabilitate the stormwater systems in east Deira, a central and diverse area of Dubai covering approximately 6,500 hectares. The project aimed to address frequent flooding caused by increased runoff and limited capacity in the existing stormwater network. Our work included assessing the current infrastructure, conducting site surveys and geotechnical investigations, and using advanced modeling software (SewerGEMS and InfoWorks ICM) to analyze the network’s carrying capacity. We proposed technical solutions such as optimizing pump operations, introducing alternative Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), and adding overflow pipes to control flooding. Notably, upgrading the existing network was considered a last resort due to cost and construction challenges. The consultancy also prepared tender documents, managed pre-tender clarifications and evaluated tenders, ensuring the project’s objectives—reducing flooding and improving access for residents and commuters—were met efficiently and economically. 

Curious to learn more?

Connect with an expert to find out how we delivered this project.

A person wearing a gray blazer and a striped shirt, standing indoors with a blurred background showing windows and light.

Osama Elashry, BSc

Technical Lead - Water & WW

Osama is an infrastructure engineer with 14+ years specializing in wet utility design, delivering water, sewerage and stormwater systems through coordinated design and hydraulic modelling.

Practices

Flood ProtectionWater Resource Infrastructure and ResiliencyHydraulic Engineering and ModelingSewage, Drainage, and Irrigation

Markets

UtilitiesGovernment AgenciesLocal Government

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