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DS 417 Upgrading and Rehabilitation of East Deira Stormwater Systems in Dubai 

Upgrade east Deira's stormwater systems to alleviate flooding in roads and communities and ensure trouble-free access in east Deira area of Dubai, UAE. 

Client Name

Dubai Municipality

Location

Dubai, UAE

Connect with an expert

Odai Kassab
Odai Kassab PMP, RMP, BSc
Wet Utilities Design Lead

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. 

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Odai Kassab

Wet Utilities Design Lead

Odai is a wet utilities design lead with 15 years’ experience delivering complex Middle East infrastructure projects, ensuring sustainable solutions and strong technical leadership.

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