The Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park (MBR Solar Park) is one of the world’s largest and most advanced renewable-energy developments, positioned at the heart of Dubai’s strategy to achieve a cleaner and more sustainable future.
- Quick facts about Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
- Strategic context and policy background of the MBR Solar Park
- Location, design, and technology mix of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
- Grid Connection, substations, and transmission used
- Development Timeline and project phases of the MBR Solar Park
- Technical and engineering features used in the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
- Innovation centre and R&D activities
- Environmental and socioeconomic impact
- Visiting the MBR Solar Park
- Investment, business, and partnership opportunities
- Challenges, Risks, and Critiques of the MBR Solar Park
- Practical information and how-to guides
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Quick facts about Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
The MBR Solar Park spreads across roughly 77 km² in Seih Al-Dahal, around 50 km south of Dubai, and continues to break global records in size, capacity, and cost efficiency.
Before diving into the details, here’s a quick snapshot of what defines this landmark project.
Key highlights
As of 2025, the solar park has surpassed 3,000 MW of operational capacity and is on track to exceed 8,000 MW by 2030. This expansion supports Dubai’s ambition to reduce over 6.5 million tonnes of CO₂ annually once the full project is complete. The total investment is expected to reach AED 50 billion.
For residents interested in how large-scale solar influences everyday living, solar-powered home solutions in the UAE are significantly beneficial.
Strategic context and policy background of the MBR Solar Park
Dubai’s long-term climate commitments give the MBR Solar Park its strategic importance within the national and regional clean-energy landscape.
Dubai’s clean-energy roadmap
The Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Strategy 2050 both rely on renewable expansion, with MBR Solar Park serving as the flagship project. These initiatives aim to make clean energy the primary contributor to Dubai’s electricity mix by mid-century.
Role of energy transition
To accelerate this shift, Dubai adopted the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model. This competitive approach invites global players, such as ACWA Power, Masdar, and the Gulf Investment Corporation, to deliver world-class solar capacity at record-low tariffs.
Location, design, and technology mix of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
Set deep within the Seih Al-Dahal desert, the solar park benefits from wide open land and exceptional solar irradiation, both essential for large-scale solar generation.
Location
It is located in Saih Al Dahal, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Site characteristics
The desert landscape offers high sunlight intensity and stable conditions suited for PV and CSP fields. Land-use planning ensures minimal ecological disturbance.
Understanding the technology
The park uses a mix of:
- PV systems: mono-PERC and bifacial modules with single-axis trackers
- CSP systems: parabolic troughs and a 262–263 m tower capable of long-duration storage
- Hybrid operation: combining PV and CSP for 24-hour clean power
Dubai’s broader sustainability efforts are reflected in green development initiatives across the emirate.
Grid Connection, substations, and transmission used
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) connect the solar park to the emirate’s high-voltage network to ensure reliability and a stable supply.
Energy produced at the site is transferred through 132 kV and 400 kV substations built within the project. These systems help stabilise voltage levels and ensure seamless integration into Dubai’s growing renewable mix.
Development Timeline and project phases of the MBR Solar Park
The growth of the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park is structured across multiple phases, each adding capacity and technological advancements.
The project began in 2012 and quickly expanded through phases I to V, with Phase VI now under development:
- Phase I (13 MW, 2013): Pilot PV plant
- Phase II (200 MW, 2017): Larger-scale PV deployment
- Phase III (800 MW): Advanced trackers and over 3 million panels
- Phase IV (950 MW CSP/PV): World’s tallest solar tower and 15-hour storage
- Phase V (900 MW, 2023): Record-low tariff of 1.6953 cents/kWh
- Phase VI (1,800 MW, 2024–2026): Under construction
Record-breaking bids emerged through the IPP structure, showcasing Dubai’s ability to attract global investment and innovation.
Current status and future expansion
The solar park continues to scale rapidly as Dubai prepares for substantial demand growth over the next decade.
Operational capacity above 3,000 MW already contributes a significant percentage of Dubai’s power mix. DEWA plans to raise this beyond 8,000 MW before 2030, supported by technology upgrades such as bifacial panels and enhanced tracking systems.
Technical and engineering features used in the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park
Engineers continue to refine system design to handle Dubai’s extreme climate while maximising energy yield.
PV and CSP systems
PV installations use high-efficiency modules paired with inverters and transformers that export at voltages like 33 kV. CSP plants use molten salt for thermal storage, enabling nighttime generation, one of the park’s standout capabilities.
Innovation centre and R&D activities
At the heart of the solar park is the DEWA Innovation Centre, a hub that promotes education and research.
Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, solar testing platforms, and pilot projects such as solar-powered desalination. The centre also fosters startups and academic partnerships. This ecosystem supports ongoing improvements in Dubai’s renewable sector.
Environmental and socioeconomic impact
Once fully operational, the park will reduce CO₂ emissions by over 6.5 million tonnes annually. It has also generated thousands of construction jobs and strengthened local supply chains. Clean energy growth supports healthier air quality across the region.
Visiting the MBR Solar Park
MBR Solar Park welcomes guests through educational tours linked to the Innovation Centre.
Visitors can access observation decks, exhibitions, and technology showcases. Photography is permitted in designated areas, and group or institutional visits often include guided technical briefings.
Investment, business, and partnership opportunities
Companies and investors close to the renewable sector see the solar park as a gateway to long-term opportunities.
New developers enter through DEWA’s tendering process, which includes prequalification and competitive bidding.
Falling solar tariffs make Dubai a benchmark for cost-effective utility-scale solar. Suppliers, EPC contractors, and research partners continue to benefit from the ecosystem.
Challenges, Risks, and Critiques of the MBR Solar Park
Despite its success, large-scale solar in desert climates faces unique challenges.
Key obstacles
Dust accumulation, extreme heat, and the need for optimised cleaning systems increase operational complexity. Grid balancing also becomes more demanding with higher renewable penetration. Policymakers continue refining regulations to ensure reliability and cost stability.
Practical information and how-to guides
For those planning a visit or studying the park’s technologies, preparation helps maximise the experience.
Visitors typically book tours through DEWA’s Innovation Centre. Researchers can request data or participate in joint study programs.
Finally, early morning and late afternoon offer the most comfortable viewing conditions.
Key takeaways
The MBR Solar Park continues to expand, breaking global solar records and accelerating Dubai’s pathway to a net-zero future. It demonstrates how clean energy, innovation, and international partnerships come together to transform an entire sector.
The Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park reflects Dubai’s confidence in scaling renewable energy at a record-setting pace. Its progress shows how innovation and long-term planning can reshape the region’s energy future.
FAQs
It is located in Seih Al-Dahal, about 50 km south of Dubai, spanning approximately 77 km².
The park is expected to exceed 8,000 MW by 2030, enough to power millions of homes.
It uses large PV fields, CSP towers, parabolic troughs, tracking systems, and extensive thermal storage.
Yes, they can. Tours are available through DEWA’s Innovation Centre with advance booking.
It will reduce over 6.5 million tonnes of CO₂ annually and is a cornerstone of Dubai’s Net Zero 2050 strategy.
