Paulina writes*
Abu Dhabi is a hub of modernity and cultural diversity: home to a unique demographic makeup. Indeed, Emirati nationals form a minority, while expatriates make up 85% of the population (Global Media Insight 2023). This multicultural society thrives on economic contributions from its diverse residents; however, it is confronted by a complex web of resource management challenges. In the arid landscape of the UAE, water is a scarce and valuable resource, produced primarily through energy-intensive desalination. As urbanization and industrial growth surge, the demand for water continues to rise. Water scarcity thus stands out as a pressing issue that intersects with social inequalities, particularly through pricing policies.
In Abu Dhabi, water management falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Energy (DOE), which operates with federal oversight. The DOE serves as the regulatory authority for electricity, water, wastewater, district cooling, and oil and gas activities. Water distribution itself is managed by the Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC), which oversees delivery, supply, and connection services. Pricing and tariffs are determined in coordination with the DOE.
The UAE employs a two-tiered water pricing system: Expats pay rates close to the actual cost of production whereas Emirati nationals pay about a quarter that price (ADCC 2024) . This system aims to safeguard Emirati welfare and cultural identity but it exacerbates economic divides by increasing the financial strain on low-income expatriate workers.
Water pricing is not the sole source of inequality in the UAE, but it exemplifies a system of social divides, citizen privileges, and disparities in resource allocation. A water pricing policy that considered income level rather than nationality would be fairer while still promoting sustainability. It would also make it easier to run water conservation campaigns based on shared responsibility, rather than special privileges.
The Emirates Diving Association (EDA), for example, engages both locals and expatriates by highlighting the Emirati heritage as seafarers and pearl divers who are “historically and socially indebted to the seas” (EDA 2024).
Bottom line: Water subsidies to Emirati citizens deepen social inequalities and hinder collective water conservation efforts.
* Please help my Water Scarcity students by commenting on unclear analysis, alternative perspectives, better data sources, or maybe just saying something nice 🙂