Saudi Arabia to host 2026 global congress on water desalination

Saudi Arabia has been selected to host the 2026 International Desalination and Reuse Association (IDRA) World Congress, a global event focusing on water challenges and desalination technologies. The announcement was made during the ongoing IDRA 2026 congress in Abu Dhabi, under the theme “Addressing Water Scarcity,” according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The decision reflects Saudi Arabia’s prominent role in the water sector. The Kingdom produces a volume of desalinated water comparable to global daily oil production, underscoring its leadership in addressing water scarcity. With numerous large-scale desalination projects and a history of technical innovation, Saudi Arabia has established itself as a hub for renewable energy and water sustainability.

The 2026 congress, set to take place in Riyadh, will convene experts from over 60 countries. It offers Saudi officials an opportunity to share the Kingdom’s achievements in tackling water challenges while fostering international collaboration. The event will also spotlight the latest advances in sustainable water solutions and facilitate the formation of strategic partnerships between nations and organizations.

In related developments, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Jeddah recently inaugurated the International Water Research Center. This initiative aims to address water scarcity with sustainable solutions, particularly in the context of the global climate crisis. The center adds to the Kingdom’s growing efforts to combat water-related challenges and underscores its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the water sector.