Al Dhannah Community Harbour is Abu Dhabi’s first solar-integrated public marine facility, directly supporting the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative by reducing emissions through renewable energy generation and low-carbon transport solutions within port infrastructure. Inaugurated in April 2026, the harbour serves as a landmark coastal gateway to the emirate’s rural Al Dhafra Region, providing safe, accessible, and welcoming public access to the waterfront while supporting the region’s economic growth and maritime identity.
Redeveloped through a collaboration between the Integrated Transport Centre of Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Maritime, and AD Ports Group, the facility boasts 168 solar panels that meet 80% of the site’s daily energy needs. Placed over parking areas, the solar panels maximise land-use efficiency while providing shaded infrastructure and reducing heat gain.
The design of the facility prioritises environmental care and habitat protection, preserving all existing Ghaf trees to safeguard native biodiversity and maintain ecological continuity. Additionally, the facility’s 270-metre rock breakwater strengthens coastal protection and environmental resilience by reducing erosion risks and protecting sediment stability.
Al Dhannah Community Harbour presents a scalable public maritime infrastructure model integrating renewable energy, electrification, and community access.
Project highlights include:
- Shore power integration enabling ferries to switch off their engines while berthed, reducing air pollution and noise.
- Facility mitigates up to 500 tonnes of CO2 emissions through ferry operations annually.
- Electrification of transport through 14 EV charging stations supporting low-carbon mobility for users, staff, and visitors.
- Support for lower-emission marine operations via a modernized ferry terminal enhancing efficiency and connectivity along the Dalma Island public ferry route.
- A public marina with 16 berths, 99 dry parking spaces, and 10 RV spaces within a compact layout.
- Reduced carbon footprint through urban planning, with 51 on-site crew accommodation units and 15 residential units reducing commuting-related emissions.
- A thoughtful layout and community centred approach that encourages shared use, inclusivity, and everyday enjoyment of the waterfront.
A flagship sustainable public maritime infrastructure project in Abu Dhabi and a model for future development elsewhere, Al Dhannah Community Harbour integrates renewable energy, electrification, and port decarbonisation technologies, while supporting tourism, community engagement, and local recreation. It aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 17.