Masdar and GSU Lead UAE Solar Exports Across 3 Continents
In 2025, the United Arab Emirates has solidified its position as a global leader in solar energy deployment, spearheaded by Abu Dhabi-based entities like Masdar and Global South Utilities (GSU). Through strategic partnerships and high-impact projects, these companies have expanded clean energy infrastructure across Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa—accelerating the global transition and redefining energy diplomacy. This surge in international activity marks a pivotal year for Abu Dhabi Solar Exports, which now span multiple continents and sectors.
Global Footprint: UAE Solar Projects by Country
- Spain – Masdar’s 446 MW acquisition
- Indonesia – Floating solar projects with PT PLN
- Saudi Arabia – 2 GW Al Sadawi project + Misk City rooftop solar
- Albania – Part of tripartite agreement with Italy and UAE
- Italy – Receives exported power from Albania project
- Madagascar – 50 MW solar + 25 MWh battery by GSU
- Egypt – $220M solar industrial complex
- Yemen – Aden and Shabwah solar plants
- Central African Republic – 50 MW solar plant in Sakaï
- Comoros – 6.3 MW solar plant funded by Abu Dhabi Fund for Development
Spain: 446 MW Acquisition Strengthens UAE’s European Solar Portfolio
Masdar acquired a 49.99% stake in four photovoltaic plants from Endesa in Spain, totaling 446 megawatts. This move deepens Abu Dhabi Solar Exports into the European market and reinforces the UAE’s role in supporting the continent’s renewable energy goals.
Indonesia: Floating Solar Projects Expand Southeast Asian Reach
Masdar and Indonesia’s PT PLN signed two agreements to advance floating solar development. The Cirata Floating PV Plant, with 145 MWac capacity, began operations in late 2023 and is now poised for expansion. A new project at the Jatigede Dam reservoir is also underway, following Masdar’s success in the Hijaunesia 2023 bidding programme. Completion is expected by 2027, further embedding Abu Dhabi Solar Exports in Southeast Asia’s energy landscape.
Saudi Arabia: 2 GW Al Sadawi Project Reaches Financial Close
Masdar, GD Power, and Korea Electric Power Corporation have reached financial close on the 2-gigawatt Al Sadawi solar PV project in Saudi Arabia. As part of the National Renewable Energy Programme, this landmark initiative underscores the UAE’s leadership in regional solar development and adds significant weight to Abu Dhabi Solar Exports.
Albania-Italy-UAE Pact Signals Cross-Border Solar Trade
A tripartite framework signed by the UAE, Italy, and Albania will enable large-scale renewable energy projects in Albania, including solar, wind, and hybrid systems. A portion of the generated power will be exported to Italy, marking a strategic evolution in Abu Dhabi Solar Exports toward transcontinental energy exchange.
Egypt: $220M Solar Complex Adds 4 GW Manufacturing Capacity
In Ain Sokhna, Egypt, UAE-based Global South Utilities (GSU) partnered with AH Industrial Management, JA Solar, and Infinity Capital to launch the “Atum Solar Egypt” project. The complex spans 200,000 square meters and includes two 2 GW factories—one for solar cells and one for modules—serving both domestic and African markets. This $220 million investment positions Abu Dhabi Solar Exports as a manufacturing and distribution hub.
Madagascar and CAR: Over 100 MW of New Solar Capacity
GSU signed agreements to develop a 50 MW solar plant with 25 MWh battery storage in Moramanga, Madagascar, and broke ground on another 50 MW plant in Sakaï, Central African Republic. These projects will supply clean electricity to over 600,000 households, expanding Abu Dhabi Solar Exports across the African continent.
Yemen: Solar Power Reaches 330,000 Households
In Yemen, GSU led the expansion of the Aden Solar Power Plant and commissioned the Shabwah Solar Power Plant, now operational. The latter supplies clean electricity to approximately 330,000 households, marking a major milestone in Abu Dhabi Solar Exports to conflict-affected regions.
Comoros: 6.3 MW Plant Enhances Island Energy Infrastructure
The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development inaugurated a 6.3 MW solar power plant in Comoros, funded with AED25.7 million (US$7 million). The project strengthens the island’s energy infrastructure and supports economic growth, further extending the reach of Abu Dhabi Solar Exports.
Abu Dhabi Solar Exports Signal a New Era of Global Energy Leadership
The UAE’s solar expansion in 2025 marks a turning point in global clean energy collaboration. With projects spanning ten countries across three continents, Abu Dhabi Solar Exports are no longer just a regional success story; they’re a blueprint for scalable, sustainable energy diplomacy. As these initiatives continue to power homes, industries, and cross-border partnerships, the UAE reinforces its role not only as a clean energy innovator, but as a strategic force shaping the future of global decarbonization.
Also Read: Abu Dhabi’s Solar Farming: An Attractive Sector for Business Opportunities
