BYD and Al-Futtaim Group have announced a partnership to expand sustainable mobility in the Middle East. As part of the agreement, Al-Futtaim Family Office has invested in BYD’s latest financing. The partnership will focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and new energy solutions.
Dubai has multiple renewable energy projects supporting clean transportation and power generation. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is the largest in the region, with an installed capacity of 2,327 megawatts (MW) as of 2023. It is expected to reach 5,000 MW by 2030.
In addition to large-scale projects, smaller renewable energy initiatives are being developed. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has installed solar panels at metro and bus stations to reduce grid dependency. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has launched the Shams Dubai initiative, which allows residential and commercial buildings to install rooftop solar panels. More than 500 MW of solar capacity has been installed through this program.
DEWA is also constructing a green hydrogen pilot project at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. The plant produces hydrogen using solar energy and is designed to support future clean transportation options, including hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Al-Futtaim Group has introduced electric vehicle charging stations at its automotive showrooms and malls in Dubai. The company has also partnered with DEWA to promote electric vehicle adoption by expanding charging infrastructure.
Dubai Municipality has installed solar panels at various government buildings, reducing energy consumption from conventional sources. Some parks in Dubai now use solar-powered lights and irrigation systems.
The RTA is also testing electric and hydrogen-powered buses as part of its public transportation strategy. The Dubai Taxi Corporation has introduced hybrid and electric taxis to its fleet.
The BYD and Al-Futtaim partnership will contribute to the transition toward cleaner transportation by expanding the availability of electric vehicles. It will also explore advanced mobility solutions, including autonomous driving and energy storage systems.
