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DouroECI | Water Management, the Portugal-based subsidiary of Metito Utilities and a leading solution provider for comprehensive water cycle management, has successfully completed a significant consultancy project in Brazil, awarded by the IFC – International Finance Corporation – a member of The World Bank. The project was aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of SANASA, the municipal sanitation company responsible for water and sanitation services for Campinas, Brazil, and end user of this project.

This strategic project focused on developing a strategy for integrating operational management systems to reduce water loss and improve overall operational efficiency. The project involved two main streams of work: 1) A comprehensive diagnostic and gap analysis, where DouroECI | Water Management, together with Effico Saneamento, conducted a thorough review of existing IT and information management systems, to identify areas for improvement; 2) Develop an improvement action plan, based on market best-practice and available technological solutions, towards the implementation of a robust information management system tailored to SANASA’s needs.

This project showcases DouroECI | Water Management’s cutting-edge expertise, where advanced engineering and technology converge to deliver innovative consulting and solutions with global applicability.

DouroECI’s work is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly with SDG – 6 clean water and sanitation, and SDG – 11 sustainable cities and communities, with a clear dedication to create positive impact and foster sustainable solutions.

Email us to learn more about the applied technologies!

marketing@metito.com & douroeci@douroeci.com

On World Water Day, Rami Ghandour, CEO of Metito Utilities, joined The Business Breakfast on Dubai Eye to discuss the urgent need for disruption in the water sector. He shared insights about the true value of water, the importance of sustainable infrastructure, and the role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in delivering long-term, high-quality water services.

Watch the full interview here:
Metito Utilities on the Business Breakfast

Establishes regional HQ in Dalian and launches major desalination and industrial water projects to support Chinas fast-growing industrial hubs.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 28 February 2025— Metito Utilities, a global investor, developer, and operator of sustainable water management solutions and climate-resilient water assets, has announced a significant expansion into China with the establishment of a regional headquarters in Dalian, Liaoning Province, alongside a landmark agreement with the Administrative Committee of Dalian Changxing Island Economic and Technological Development Zone to develop critical water infrastructure in Xizhong Island, a core hub for integrated refining and chemical production.

With an initial $20 million investment in its Dalian headquarters and an estimated $150 million commitment to large-scale water infrastructure projects, Metito Utilities is reinforcing its long-term presence and strategic growth in China.

This move marks Metito Utilities return to the Chinese market after more than six years, highlighting its commitment to delivering sustainable water solutions in strategic global markets. Xizhong Island, part of the Dalian Economic and Technological Development Zone, is a major industrial hub set to achieve a refining capacity of 40 million tons per year by 2030. With ambitious production targets of 10 million tons of aromatics and 10 million tons of ethylene annually, a reliable and sustainable water supply is crucial.

To support these demands, Metito Utilities will develop the Xizhong Island Desalination and Industrial Water Treatment Projects, featuring an advanced water treatment facility. This project is designed to meet the growing demand for industrial water while enhancing water efficiency, reduce reliance on traditional sources and promote green and low-carbon development goals, aligning with the China’s long-term sustainability goals.

Rami Ghandour, CEO of Metito Utilities, highlighted the strategic importance of the expansion and the new project, stating: “Re-entering the Chinese market is a pivotal step in Metito Utilities global growth strategy. Establishing a regional headquarters in Dalian is a sign of our long-term commitment to China while our partnership with Xizhong Island Petrochemical Park is a cornerstone of this expansion, ensuring a stable and sustainable water supply for one of China’s most ambitious industrial hubs. This project will set a benchmark for desalination and industrial water treatment in the region, and we look forward to collaborating closely with our partners in Dalian and Xizhong Island to drive long-term impact and innovation in water infrastructure.”

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 25 February 2025—Metito Utilities, a global investor, developer and operator of sustainable water management solutions and climate-resilient water assets, has signed into three landmark Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with leading Italian institutions this week: Italy’s national promotional institution and development bank, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), SACE – Italy’s Export Credit Agency and insurance–financial group, and ACEA S.p.A., a major industrial group in the water sector and a leader in environmental and energy services. The agreements, formalized during the UAE-Italy Business Forum in Rome and signed in the esteemed presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. These strategic partnerships set the stage for transformative water infrastructure developments that will enhance water security and improve millions of lives across Africa, the UAE, and other regions where water infrastructure is critically needed.

These collaborations usher in a new era of Italy-UAE cooperation in sustainable water infrastructure, fully aligned with Italy’s ambitious Mattei Plan and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals for clean water and sustainable communities. By leveraging the combined expertise and resources of CDP, SACE and ACEA S.p.A., Metito Utilities is set to accelerate the deployment of sustainable water solutions across key markets.

Rami Ghandour, CEO of Metito Utilities, said: “As countries work to achieve water security for their growing communities, these partnerships create unprecedented opportunities to accelerate sustainable solutions. By combining Metito Utilities extensive experience with Italian expertise and financial capabilities, we are creating a powerful framework to address critical infrastructure needs and enhance water security across multiple markets.” Building on our commitment to Africa initiated with AWID launched with BII, these collaborations further underscore our dedication to developing sustainable water infrastructure across the continent.

The collaboration with CDP opens vital funding channels for water infrastructure, with a particular focus on Africa’s Official Development Assistance (ODA)-eligible nations. By aligning with Italy’s development goals, this initiative creates opportunities for Italian businesses while addressing critical infrastructure needs in developing markets.

The strategic cooperation with SACE will bring innovative financial solutions and insurance mechanisms to accelerate project development throughout Africa, the UAE, and other high-need regions, strengthening the ties between Italian industry and emerging markets, fostering both economic growth and sustainable development in the water sector.

Working with ACEA S.p.A, a leader in water and energy services, Metito Utilities will spearhead innovative solutions for sustainable water management across Africa and the Middle East. The combined expertise of both organizations will revolutionize the development of treatment plants, desalination facilities, and distribution networks, bringing cutting-edge water security solutions to communities in need.

To capitalize on emerging opportunities in Africa, Metito Utilities will seek to marshal diverse sources of capital and leverage its expertise to bring planned projects to execution, incorporating relevant initiatives under its Africa Water Infrastructure Development (AWID) framework, a first-of-its-kind platform designed to develop climate-smart water projects at scale and enhance water security across the continent—where applicable.

Marwan Zeineddine, Managing Director of SAP UAE, with Rami Ghandour, CEO of Metito Utilities.

DUBAI, UAE – 21 February 2025: SAP announced today that Metito Utilities, a global investor, developer, and operator of sustainable water management solutions, has selected GROW with SAP to accelerate its digital transformation, The AI-powered cloud enterprise solutions will enhance Metito Utilities’ agility and optimize operations. This collaboration will ensure scalability, flexibility, and speed by leveraging scalable cloud technologies to streamline processes and strengthen corporate governance.

As part of this transformation, Metito Utilities will implement SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition in the first half of 2025 in the UAE, followed by a phased international rollout. The integration of SAP’s enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions will enable seamless financial reporting, business intelligence, project management, and enhanced cash flow visibility across multiple geographies. Additionally, SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) will provide real-time monitoring and predictive insights, allowing for data-driven water infrastructure management, while SAP SuccessFactors will strengthen human capital management, workforce development and governance through structured operational oversight.

Marwan Zeineddine, Managing Director of SAP UAE, said: “With its ambitious expansion plans and strong commitment to innovation, Metito Utilities exemplifies the type of growth-focused company that GROW with SAP is designed to support. By embracing SAP’s cloud-based ERP and AI capabilities, Metito Utilities is laying the foundation for operational efficiency, financial agility, and long-term success.”

Rami Ghandour, CEO of Metito Utilities, added: “At Metito Utilities, our commitment to innovation and sustainability demands robust digital infrastructure to support our rapid global expansion. By implementing GROW with SAP, we’re enhancing our operational efficiency while enabling our teams to make AI-driven decisions in real-time. This technology backbone will be crucial as we scale our sustainable water management solutions and climate-resilient water assets.”

By adopting SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition, Metito Utilities will benefit from a scalable cloud ERP that ensures seamless integration across its global entities, while SAP Analytics Cloud will deliver real-time performance tracking, predictive analytics, and proactive resource management. Meanwhile, SAP SuccessFactors will optimize workforce planning and dynamic collaboration tools to boost efficiency and innovation.

The SAP ERP UAE implementation in H1 2025 will be followed by a global rollout across Metito Utilities’ operations including the Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Uzbekistan, China, Rwanda, Serbia, and beyond.

The Arab Energy Fund-led consortium completes the acquisition of Metito Utilities

 The acquisition supports TAEF’s leadership in the fields of sustainable water solutions and energy infrastructure.

• Accelerates innovative solutions to address water insecurity and drive long-term value in emerging markets.
• Reaffirms a shared commitment to clean water accessibility, resource optimization, and environmental stewardship.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 08 January 2025—The Arab Energy Fund (TAEF), formerly known as APICORP, a leading multilateral impact financial institution focused on the MENA energy sector, has successfully led a consortium to acquire a 100% stake in, and provide further growth capital to, Metito Utilities, a global investor, developer and operator of sustainable water management solutions and climate-resilient water assets.

This landmark transaction, in partnership with Zamil Group Investment Company and the Ghandour family, aligns with TAEF’s strategic vision to advance energy security and sustainability by driving impactful investments that address critical infrastructure needs in water and wastewater management across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

Metito has been an industry leader in the water sector since 1958, and Metito Utilities has over 25 years specialized experience in the investment, development, and long-term operation and maintenance of water and wastewater concessions. It has a proven-track record of over 35 successful concessions and has a long-standing legacy of pioneering water and wastewater, delivering first Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) projects in the sector in countries as such Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Rwanda, Serbia, Qatar and beyond, and setting benchmarks in sustainable water management on a global scale.

Khalid Ali Al-Ruwaigh, CEO of TAEF, said: “The investment in Metito Utilities marks a strategic milestone in TAEF’s mission to advance sustainable infrastructure and energy value chains. Water and energy are deeply interconnected, and this collaboration, alongside our partners Zamil Group Investment Company and the Ghandour family, as well as Metito Utilities’ talented team, allows us to strengthen regional leadership in addressing water scarcity challenges while delivering long-term value creation. We aim to accelerate growth and innovation across new and existing markets.”

Abdullrahman K Al Zamil, President of Zamil Group Investment Company, said: “We have consistently sought opportunities that combine business excellence with meaningful impact. Water security is fundamental to our region’s future, and Metito’s expertise in water management aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainable development. As a family business that has witnessed and participated in the region’s transformation, we see this partnership as another milestone in our journey of being partners in building nations, bringing proven water solutions to communities and industries that need them most.”

 Rami Ghandour, CEO of Metito Utilities, said: “We are proud of our legacy, and the continuous evolution that has brought us to where we are today. While this transformation marks a new era for Metito, our commitment to a cleaner environment remains at the heart of everything we do.  With this strengthened partnership, we aim to expand our positive impact by leveraging our experience in PPP projects to enhance water efficiency and deliver tailored, sustainable water management solutions across the pan-emerging markets. Together with our valued partners, we are excited to lead the way forward in shaping the future of water management.’

This acquisition marks a significant milestone for all shareholders, uniting their shared vision to address global water security challenges while developing long-term environmental, social, and economic value.

It aligns with TAEF’s broader strategy to drive sustainable infrastructure development, measurable impact and contribute to the region’s economic prosperity. This transaction reflects TAEF’s focus on energy and energy adjacent sectors, showcasing its role as a preeminent impact investor in the MENA region.

Under its new shareholding, Metito Utilities is poised to build on its legacy of innovation and operational excellence, driving sustainable water solutions that make a lasting impact in emerging markets.

Metito, a globally leading provider of intelligent water management solutions, announces the reorganization of its core business lines into independent group companies aiming to enhance growth and profitability. This will enable each business line to pursue focused growth strategies while maintaining the expertise and operational excellence that have defined Metito’s legacy in the water sector for the past 66 years.

Metito will reorganize its core business lines into three standalone group companies, each with a focus on its core expertise and growth prospects:

Metito Utilities, historically operated as an independent group company, will continue its business in investment, development, and long-term operation & maintenance of water and wastewater concessions.

Metito Water Projects (METIPRO) will continue focusing on high-value engineering, design and build solutions tailored to water infrastructure developments and urban water needs

Metito Chemical Solutions (METICHEM) will continue providing advanced water treatment chemicals, operation & maintenance and customer-service engineered packages.

“Metito has been at the forefront of the water and wastewater industry for decades, and this marks a pivotal moment in our journey, and our commitment to addressing water scarcity and developing advanced water solutions for the communities we serve remains our top priority and allows each independent company to focus on its core strengths while drawing on our extensive experience” said Mutaz Ghandour, Chairman of the Metito Group.

Metito Utilities’ consortium, including Al Attiyah Motors & Trading Company and Gulf Investment Corporation (GIC), was honored with the ‘Impact Deal of the Year’ in the Project Finance category for the Al Wakra and Al Wukair Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) project in Qatar.

This milestone project, awarded by the Qatar Public Works Authority (Ashghal) in 2022, reached financial close in 2024. It involves the development, design, build, finance, and procurement of a 150,000 m³/day sewage treatment works (STW) project under a PPP agreement.

As the first sewage treatment PPP project in Qatar, it aligns with Qatar’s 2030 Vision for sustainable water management, advancing the country’s commitment to improved infrastructure and environmental sustainability.

At the same ceremony, Project Wave, a $2.4 billion landmark project in Abu Dhabi, UAE, also won the Project Finance Deal of the Year award. Led by a consortium of Orascom Construction and Metito Utilities, alongside ADNOC and TAQA, this project will provide over 500,000 m³/day of sustainable treated seawater supply for ADNOC’s onshore operations.

The IFLR Middle East Awards celebrate excellence in legal procedure, particularly focusing on cross-border transactions. We extend our gratitude to our legal partners who played a critical role in this achievement: Addleshaw Goddard, Al Tamimi & Company, ASAR – Al Ruwayeh & Partners, Eversheds Sutherland, Norton Rose Fulbright, Pinsent Masons, Ashurst, Covington & Burling, and Hadef & Partners.

Metito Utilities Serbia participated in the Doing Business with Serbia conference held in Belgrade. The full-day event, organized by the Serbian Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, brought together key stakeholders from Serbia and the UAE to explore investment opportunities and enhance bilateral cooperation.

During the conference, Branislav Zec, Country Manager – Serbia at Metito Utilities, took part in the Power Talks session with a keynote titled “Exploring Serbia’s Business Potential.” His address focused on Serbia’s growing infrastructure landscape—particularly in the water and utilities sectors—and reaffirmed Metito Utilities’ commitment to sustainable and impactful development in the region.

The event provided a valuable platform for strengthening relationships with local and international partners and underscored Metito Utilities Serbia’s active role in shaping the future of water infrastructure in the country.

The conference concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Serbian and Dubai Chambers of Commerce, marking a milestone in advancing UAE–Serbia economic relations.

Metito Utilities and its partners have been awarded the prestigious ‘Water Deal of the Year’ at the IJGlobal MENA Awards Ceremony, recognizing the landmark Wave Project in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Valued at $2.4 billion, the Wave Project is one of the largest and most strategic water infrastructure developments in the region. The project is led by a consortium comprising Orascom Construction and Metito Utilities, in collaboration with ADNOC and TAQA. Once operational, it will supply over 110 million imperial gallons per day (500,000 m³/day) of sustainably treated seawater to support ADNOC’s onshore operations. It also includes the construction of a 75km water transmission pipeline and an in-field distribution network of over 230km to support reservoir pressure maintenance in the Bab and Bu Hasa fields. The project’s implementation will significantly reduce water injection-related energy consumption, connect to the grid for clean energy supply, and contribute over 60% of its value to the UAE economy.

IJGlobal, part of Delinian (IJ Global) Limited, is one of the world’s largest infrastructure and project finance data sources. Powered by advanced analytics, unparalleled rich data, and exclusive coverage, we provide solutions that enable market participants to execute insightful decisions with confidence, raise market profile, maximize opportunities and grow businesses.