What to know about drinking tap water in UAE

One of the most common questions travelers ask when visiting the United Arab Emirates is about the safety of drinking tap water, a topic often surrounded by misconceptions despite the country’s advanced infrastructure and stringent quality controls. We understand this concern, and we’re here to shed light on what you need to know about the tap water in the UAE.

The Source of UAE’s Tap Water

Given the arid climate of the UAE, a significant portion, roughly 99%, of its drinking water comes from desalination plants. These highly advanced facilities, particularly in coastal cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, convert seawater from the Arabian Gulf into fresh, potable water. The primary methods used are thermal distillation and reverse osmosis. Thermal distillation involves heating seawater to produce steam, which is then condensed into pure water, while reverse osmosis pushes seawater through specialized semi-permeable membranes that filter out salts and impurities. These processes are energy-intensive but essential for providing a consistent water supply to the population. While some groundwater sources exist, they are limited and not the primary supply for consumption in major urban centers.

Rigorous Quality Standards and Testing

The UAE government, through entities like the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) in Dubai and the Department of Energy (DoE) in Abu Dhabi, enforces incredibly strict quality standards for drinking water. These standards are aligned with, and often exceed, the guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Water undergoes a rigorous multi-stage treatment process, including filtration, disinfection (often with chlorine), and continuous monitoring to ensure it is free from harmful microorganisms, parasites, and chemical contaminants. Regular testing is conducted at various points in the distribution network to maintain these high standards, ensuring the water leaving the desalination plants is safe for human consumption.

The “But” Factor: Building Infrastructure

Here’s where the nuance comes in: while the water supplied by authorities like DEWA is certified safe to drink, the quality can sometimes be compromised after it enters your building’s plumbing system. The primary concerns arise from poorly maintained internal water storage tanks and old, corroded pipes within residential buildings, hotels, or commercial properties. If these tanks are not cleaned regularly (Dubai Municipality, for example, recommends cleaning every six months) or if the building’s pipes are old and have sediment buildup, contaminants can leach into the otherwise clean water. This is often why some hotels might still recommend bottled water, not due to the municipal supply, but due to their own internal plumbing.

Taste and Odor Considerations

Beyond safety, some individuals notice a distinct taste or odor in tap water, which can be attributed to the chlorination process used for disinfection. While chlorine is essential for killing bacteria and ensuring microbiological safety, its residue can sometimes affect the water’s taste. Additionally, the desalination process removes many naturally occurring minerals, which can give desalinated water a “flat” or less appealing taste compared to natural mineral water. This is often a matter of personal preference rather than a health concern, but it does lead many residents and visitors to opt for bottled water.

Practical Tips for Drinking Tap Water

If you’re comfortable with the idea of drinking tap water, here are some practical tips:

• Ask about tank maintenance: If you’re staying in an apartment or a smaller hotel, it might not hurt to politely inquire about the last time the building’s water tanks were cleaned.
• Use a filter: For added peace of mind and to improve taste, consider using a simple water filter pitcher or installing a tap-mounted filter. These can effectively remove any residual chlorine, sediment, and potential impurities from the building’s pipes.
• Boil if unsure: If you are in an older building or have any lingering doubts, boiling your tap water for at least one minute will kill most bacteria and viruses, making it safe for consumption.
• Let it run: If the tap hasn’t been used for a while, let the water run for a few seconds before drinking it. This flushes out any stagnant water in the pipes.

The Bottled Water Alternative

For many, bottled water remains the preferred choice in the UAE due to convenience and perceived taste. The market is saturated with numerous local and international bottled water brands, offering various types including mineral water, purified water, and even those with added fluoride. While convenient, the environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles is a growing concern. Many services deliver large gallon-sized water bottles to homes and offices, which is a more sustainable option than constantly buying smaller plastic bottles. You’ll find that bottled water is readily available everywhere, from supermarkets to convenience stores.

Environmental Considerations

The reliance on bottled water contributes to a significant amount of plastic waste in the UAE. Efforts are being made to encourage tap water consumption and reduce plastic usage. Initiatives promoting the use of reusable water bottles and refill stations are becoming more common in public spaces, reflecting a growing environmental consciousness in the country. Choosing tap water, especially with a filter, can be a small but impactful step towards sustainable tourism and living in the Emirates.

Official Stance on Tap Water Safety

Official bodies, like the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) and various government authorities, actively campaign to correct the misconception that tap water in the UAE is unsafe. They consistently reiterate that the water leaving their treatment plants is of high quality and perfectly fit for human consumption. The focus is increasingly on public education regarding internal plumbing maintenance within buildings as the critical factor for ensuring water quality right at the tap. This transparent communication helps to build trust in the public water supply.

Your Hydration Choice

Ultimately, the decision to drink tap water or bottled water in the UAE is a personal one, weighing factors like taste preference, environmental concerns, and individual comfort levels with building-specific infrastructure. Based on regulatory standards, the municipal water itself is safe. The team at www.few.ae hopes this comprehensive overview helps you make an informed choice for your hydration needs during your visit to the United Arab Emirates.