Dubai launches new project to turn used cooking oil into biodiesel

Dubai: Ever wondered what happens to the cooking oil you pour down the kitchen sink? Well, it could soon turn into a cleaner, renewable fuel.

In a new initiative that directly impacts households and restaurants across the emirate, Dubai has launched a major environmental project to collect and convert used cooking oil into biodiesel.

Residents may soon find their waste oil becoming part of a greener solution, thanks to a partnership between Dubai Municipality and BiOD Technology FZCO, a subsidiary of DUBAL Holding. The move not only prevents clogged pipes and environmental harm but also contributes to Dubai’s vision for a circular economy.

Under a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), BiOD Technology is authorised to collect used cooking oil (UCO) and fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from across the emirate and convert them into B100 biodiesel, a clean fuel alternative that helps reduce carbon emissions.

The agreement was formalised in the presence of senior officials, including Fahad Al-Awadhi, Director of Sewerage and Recycled Water Projects Department at Dubai Municipality; Yousef Bastaki, Board Member of BiOD Technology; and Shiva Vig, CEO of BiOD Technology.

“This partnership represents a significant step in our mission to advance Dubai’s environmental agenda through innovative and sustainable waste-to-energy solutions. By turning waste into a valuable energy resource, we not only protect vital infrastructure and reduce environmental risks but also contribute effectively to achieving the goals outlined in Dubai's Vision 2030 for environmental sustainability,” said Adel Al Marzooqi, CEO of the Waste and Sewerage Agency at Dubai Municipality.

The project also supports the UAE’s Green Economy goals, helping to reduce the environmental footprint and operational costs of wastewater treatment. Restaurants and commercial kitchens, some of the largest producers of waste oil, will play a key role in the collection process.

Ahmed bin Fahad Al Muhairi, Chairman of the Board of BiOD Technology, said: “We are pleased to collaborate with Dubai Municipality on this initiative, a partnership that underscores our mutual commitment to sustainable innovation. At BiOD Technology, our focus is on implementing practical, impactful solutions that contribute to tangible environmental improvements and advance Dubai’s circular economy goals. Moreover, in partnership with like-minded entities, we strive to build a service ecosystem dedicated to making a positive global impact.”

Shiva Vig, CEO of BiOD Technology, added: “Leveraging cutting-edge technology and deep industry expertise, we are transforming UCO and FOG into high-quality, renewable biodiesel. This partnership marks an exciting step forward, and we are eager to expand our efforts into broader initiatives that promote sustainable waste management and innovative recycling solutions.”

Dubai Municipality’s new initiative is the latest in a growing list of sustainable efforts aiming to make the emirate a regional leader in waste-to-energy innovation. The MoU represents a significant step forward in public-private collaboration, paving the way for scalable and high-impact environmental solutions that promote the circular economy and protect Dubai’s infrastructure and environment, the civic body stated.