Tamas Projects has been awarded a $163 million engineering, procurement and construction contract to refurbish the Step Terminal Pumping Station PS01 in Abu Dhabi.
Project overview
The contract was issued by Taqa Water Solutions, the entity that now houses the former Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company. The pumping station forms part of the Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme (Step), a major wastewater infrastructure scheme aimed at modernising the capital’s water network.
The programme’s objective is to extend the operational life of the facility, cut unplanned outages and keep wastewater flowing to downstream treatment and disposal sites. By doing so, the project supports the broader goal of reliable wastewater management across the emirate.
Scope and timeline
Work will begin in the third quarter of 2026 and is scheduled for completion in 2028. The scope covers replacement and refurbishment of mechanical equipment, installation of disinfection and chemical dosing systems, and upgrades to electrical, instrumentation and control systems.
Additional tasks include fitting new pipework, valves, pumping‑station manifolds, and a ventilation and odour‑control system. These upgrades are designed to reduce the risk of unexpected shutdowns and improve overall plant efficiency.
Tamas Projects' track record
Earlier this year, Tamas Projects completed a $30 million pipeline replacement for Taqa Transmission. That 2024 project involved moving a 1.6‑kilometre section of DN1000 pipeline that serves the UAN and Unit 3 pumping stations.
The successful delivery of that contract demonstrates the contractor’s growing capability in large‑scale water infrastructure work, positioning it well for the current $163 million assignment.
Strategic importance for Abu Dhabi
The Step Terminal Pumping Station is a key node in Abu Dhabi’s wastewater system. By extending its service life, the project helps the emirate meet its long‑term water‑security objectives without needing to build entirely new facilities.
Alongside the pumping‑station upgrade, Taqa Water Solutions is reviewing bids for an Al‑Razeen water‑treatment plant upgrade, a separate effort expected to be awarded later this year. Together, these initiatives underline Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sustaining and improving its water‑treatment capacity.
Future outlook
With construction set to start later this year, the rehabilitation will likely create a series of ancillary contracts for local suppliers and service providers. The extended timeline to 2028 provides a steady flow of work that can bolster the region’s engineering and construction sector.
While the contract details are now public, Taqa Water Solutions has not disclosed the final cost of the Al‑Razeen plant upgrade, nor the exact timeline for its award. The outcome of that bid will further shape Abu Dhabi’s water‑infrastructure roadmap.
Frequently asked questions
What is the scope of Tamas Projects' $163m Abu Dhabi pumping station contract?
The contract covers replacement and refurbishment of mechanical equipment, installation of disinfection and chemical dosing systems, and upgrades to electrical, instrumentation and control systems.
When will Tamas Projects start work on the Step Terminal Pumping Station PS01?
Work on the project is slated to start in Q3 2026 and finish by 2028.
What is the Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme (Step) in Abu Dhabi?
The programme is a major wastewater infrastructure scheme aimed at modernising the capital's water network, extending the operational life of facilities, cutting unplanned outages and keeping wastewater flowing to downstream treatment and disposal sites.
