Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has reinforced its commitment to digital transformation with a high-level visit to Microsoft's Los Angeles headquarters, where delegation members explored how artificial intelligence can enhance workforce productivity and advance smart building infrastructure across the UAE.
DEWA Delegation Meets Microsoft AI Executives
A senior DEWA delegation, led by CEO Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, traveled to Microsoft's Los Angeles office to hold in-depth discussions on AI solutions for the utility sector. Joining Al Tayer were executives Hussain Lootah, Marwan bin Haider, and Waleed bin Salman.
The delegation met with Rajmohan Rajagopalan, Microsoft's General Manager of M365 Copilot and Apps, and Ricardo Villalobos, Microsoft's Principal Director of Industry Software Engineering. Talks centered on how Microsoft's AI technology can boost employee performance and how smart building solutions can improve energy efficiency and the quality of urban environments.
Microsoft 365 Copilot and DEWA's AI-First Approach
Microsoft presented its 365 Copilot solution — an advanced AI assistant designed to automate daily workflows and increase overall organisational performance. DEWA was already familiar with the technology: in early 2024, DEWA became the first government organisation in the UAE to equip its workforce with Microsoft 365 Copilot and Security Copilot, placing it among the first utility organisations globally to implement those technologies.
The AI tools are designed to help DEWA improve operational performance, customer satisfaction, and corporate environmental responsibility — all in line with Dubai's Smart City agenda.
Smart Buildings and Sustainable Urban Development
Beyond workforce productivity, the LA visit included discussions on Microsoft's AI-powered smart building solutions, which aim to optimise energy consumption and foster more sustainable building environments. This area is of particular strategic importance for DEWA, which is developing Al Shera'a — set to become the tallest, largest, and smartest net-zero energy government building in the world.
Al Tayer highlighted DEWA's broader innovation mandate: "DEWA is committed to adopting the advanced digital solutions including AI, to sustain our leading position as a sustainable and innovative utility. Apart from enhancing our operational capacity, our partnership with Microsoft supports Dubai's goal of becoming a smart city of sustainable living."
Advancing Dubai's Smart City Vision
The DEWA–Microsoft AI partnership positions Dubai as a reference point for modern, technology-driven urban governance. By combining AI-powered workforce tools with smart infrastructure, DEWA is advancing the emirate's vision for green, sustainable urbanism — making Dubai a global benchmark in smart city development.
