(Credit - Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA))
DEWA Substations 2025 Push Dubai’s Grid Total to 391
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority commissioned eight 132kV substations and two 400kV substations across Dubai in 2025, pushing the emirate’s total substation count to 391 by mid-2025. The expansion, backed by electricity transmission network investments surpassing AED 7.6 billion, strengthens grid reliability at a time when summer peak loads from air-conditioning place maximum pressure on the system.
DEWA Substations 2025: AED 7.6 Billion Grid Commitment
DEWA’s commissioning of ten new high-voltage substations in a single year reflects the scale of infrastructure planning required to keep pace with Dubai’s growth. The eight 132kV substations support regional load centres, feeding power into lower-voltage distribution networks that serve homes, businesses, and transport systems. The two 400kV substations operate at the backbone transmission layer, moving large volumes of electricity efficiently over longer distances with reduced energy losses. Together, the additions increase the number of alternative routing paths across the grid, reducing the risk that a single fault or scheduled maintenance outage disrupts supply to residents or commercial operators.
The two voltage tiers serve distinct but complementary roles. The 400kV layer handles bulk power transfer between major generation sources and key load zones, while the 132kV tier distributes that power to industrial zones, new residential communities, and fast-growing commercial districts. Expanding both simultaneously allows DEWA to balance high-volume transmission with localised capacity, avoiding bottlenecks in corridors where demand is rising fastest. This dual-tier approach also shortens connection timelines for new real estate and infrastructure projects, a direct benefit for developers and large-load customers planning capacity requirements.
What the Grid Expansion Means for Dubai Businesses and Residents
For Dubai’s energy-intensive sectors , data centres, logistics hubs, manufacturing facilities, and large-scale retail , a larger, more redundant substation fleet translates into higher uptime and faster fault restoration. DEWA, which operates under the oversight of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, has consistently linked transmission investment to the emirate’s population growth trajectory and real estate pipeline. Reaching 391 substations by mid-2025 signals a grid that is not only larger but more meshed, with digital monitoring and protection systems paired with each new commissioning to improve fault detection during extreme heat periods when demand peaks.
| Substation Type | Units Commissioned in 2025 | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| 132kV Substations | 8 | Regional load centres; feeds lower-voltage distribution networks |
| 400kV Substations | 2 | Backbone transmission; bulk power transfer over long distances |
| Total DEWA Substations (mid-2025) | 391 | Combined high-voltage grid serving all of Dubai |
| Transmission Network Investment | AED 7.6 billion+ | Capital expenditure across Dubai’s electricity transmission infrastructure |
- New 132kV Substations: Eight units commissioned across Dubai in 2025, strengthening regional distribution capacity
- New 400kV Substations: Two backbone-tier units added to handle bulk long-distance power transfer
- Total Substation Fleet: 391 substations operational by mid-2025
- Cumulative Investment: Electricity transmission network spending exceeded AED 7.6 billion
DEWA’s 2025 clean-energy expansion was positioned as part of a broader push that also prioritises energy storage solutions to support grid stability as renewable penetration rises.
DEWA has further clean energy and sustainability projects planned for 2026, extending its investment pipeline beyond the 2025 substation commissioning programme as it continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable infrastructure and energy storage solutions, aligning transmission expansion with the integration of more renewable generation.
Emirates travel warning DXB: Summer rush at Terminal 3
Emirates Warns of Busy Summer Travel Period at DXB Terminal 3
If you're planning to depart from Dubai International Airport's Terminal 3 in the next two weeks, be prepared for a busy summer travel period. Emirates has issued a summer travel warning for passengers, expecting a surge in departures from July 3 to 5, with high volumes continuing into early July. The busiest day is forecast to be July 12, with around three million passengers expected to pass through the terminal in early July.
Travelers can expect longer queues and tighter boarding cut-offs, especially for families and passengers with checked baggage. To minimize delays, Emirates advises passengers to arrive early, use online check-in, and consider taking the Dubai Metro to the airport. This will help reduce landside congestion and make the travel experience smoother.
The summer holiday season is a peak travel period for Dubai International Airport, and Terminal 3 is one of the busiest terminals. With the expected surge in passenger volumes, it's essential for travelers to plan ahead and allow extra time for check-in, security, and boarding. By taking a few simple steps, passengers can help ensure a stress-free travel experience and make the most of their summer holiday.
As part of the Dubai government's efforts to manage peak travel periods, Emirates is working closely with the airport authorities to ensure a smooth travel experience for all passengers. The airline is also encouraging passengers to use online check-in and the Dubai Metro to reduce congestion at the terminal.
In the context of Dubai's overall aviation strategy, this summer travel warning is a reminder of the importance of planning and preparation. As the city continues to grow as a major aviation hub, managing peak travel periods will become increasingly important. By working together with airlines, airport authorities, and passengers, Dubai can ensure a world-class travel experience for all.
India Pauses WhatsApp Username Rollout
India Orders WhatsApp to Pause Username Feature Rollout
The Indian government has asked WhatsApp to pause the rollout of its planned username feature, citing concerns that it could increase online fraud and phishing. The rollout is on hold pending consultations, during which WhatsApp must justify the feature and detail safeguards against misuse.
This decision affects all WhatsApp users in India, particularly those who were expecting to use the username feature. Businesses and individuals who rely on WhatsApp for communication will need to wait until the feature is approved and implemented with adequate safeguards.
To comply with the Indian government's requirements, WhatsApp will need to:
- Submit a formal risk assessment and mitigation plan for the username feature.
- Implement anti-impersonation controls, such as handle uniqueness rules and restricted words.
- Establish a system for verified business identity to prevent scams.
- Develop a reporting and takedown process for fraudulent accounts.
- Ensure auditability for law-enforcement requests consistent with local law.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Action | India has paused the WhatsApp username feature rollout |
| Required Safeguards | Anti-impersonation controls, verified business identity, reporting and takedown process |
| Next Steps | WhatsApp must submit a formal risk assessment and mitigation plan |
Taylor Swift Wedding Rumor
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Wedding Rumors: What's Real?
People are saying that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will celebrate their wedding on Friday at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Here's what official statements from representatives say: no confirmation has been cited, and details about the event and guest list remain unverified.
The claim that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will celebrate their wedding on Friday at Madison Square Garden is rated as Unverified. The evidence includes a report claiming the celebration will take place, but no official confirmation from Taylor Swift's representatives, Travis Kelce, or the Kansas City Chiefs has been issued. Confidence Score: Unverified.
The wedding celebration report remains unverified due to lack of official confirmation.
Bayern Munich signs Ismael Saibari in $63m deal
Bayern Munich Completes $63m Signing of Ismael Saibari from PSV Eindhoven
Bayern Munich have signed Morocco midfielder Ismael Saibari from PSV Eindhoven in a deal reported at $63 million. Saibari has agreed a contract running until June 2031 and will wear the No. 34 shirt. The move is set to strengthen Bayern Munich's midfield for the long term, with Saibari's contract reflecting a significant investment by the club.
The reported $63 million fee places Saibari among the higher-value midfield moves of the window, reflecting the premium top clubs pay for press-resistant, multi-role midfielders who can contribute in both buildup and final-third actions. This signing is expected to have a positive impact on Bayern Munich's squad, with Saibari's skills and experience likely to enhance the team's performance.
PSV Eindhoven's sale of Saibari continues the Eredivisie model of developing and monetizing talent to reinvest in recruitment and wages. The transfer fee will provide PSV Eindhoven with significant funds to reinvest in their squad, potentially leading to further signings and improvements.
The signing of Ismael Saibari is connected to Bayern Munich's previous efforts to strengthen their midfield, with the club having been linked to several high-profile targets in recent months. This move demonstrates Bayern Munich's commitment to investing in top talent and building a strong squad for the long term.
Etihad Rail Guide
Your Ultimate Guide to Etihad Rail Passenger Service in the UAE
As Etihad Rail's passenger service gains popularity, UAE residents are looking for a reliable guide to plan their train journeys. The National has published an "ultimate guide" to help passengers understand the end-to-end trip experience across the UAE. With this guide, you can learn how to book your tickets, what to expect at the stations, and how to make the most of your journey.
For those new to train travel in the UAE, it's essential to know the basics. Etihad Rail is the UAE's national rail network, developed to connect key population and industrial centers and shift more travel and freight from roads to rail. The guide covers practical aspects such as how to book, what ID is required at boarding, station access and parking, baggage allowances, and what to expect onboard.
If you're a frequent traveler, you'll want to know about the different stations, timetables, and ticket prices. The guide provides detailed information on these aspects, helping you plan your journey with ease. You can also learn about the onboard facilities, seating, and arrival procedures to make your journey as smooth as possible.
For employers and travel planners, the guide provides valuable insights into the predictability of train travel. With clearer expectations around station access, boarding timing, and passenger readiness, you can reduce missed departures, improve workforce punctuality, and reshape inter-emirate travel choices.
Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:
- Booking: You can book your tickets online or at the stations.
- Stations: Etihad Rail has several stations across the UAE, including in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other emirates.
- Timetables: The guide provides detailed timetables to help you plan your journey.
- Ticket prices: Ticket prices vary depending on the class and destination.
- Visit the Etihad Rail website to book your tickets and check the timetables.
- Plan your journey in advance to avoid last-minute surprises.
- Arrive at the station with plenty of time to spare, and have your ID and tickets ready.
- Familiarize yourself with the onboard facilities and seating to make the most of your journey.
