Saudi Arabia is calling for stronger international collaboration to address growing global water security challenges as preparations begin for the Innovation Driven Water Sustainability (IDWS) Conference 2026, which will take place in Jeddah from 7–9 December.
Organised by the Saudi Water Authority, the conference will bring together governments, utilities, researchers, technology companies and investors to explore practical solutions for water scarcity, climate resilience and sustainable water management.
According to the organisers, this year’s event is expected to attract more than 10,000 participants from 140 countries, alongside 250 speakers and 150 exhibitors, representing an increase of more than 50% compared with the previous edition.
Global water security in the spotlight
Growing populations, climate change and increasing pressure on freshwater resources continue to place water security high on the agenda for governments and utilities worldwide.
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in desalination, water infrastructure and sector reform under Vision 2030, developing one of the world’s largest integrated water systems with production capacity exceeding 16.2 million cubic metres of water per day across more than 500 production facilities, according to the Saudi Water Authority.
His Excellency Eng. Abdullah bin Ibrahim Al-Abdulkareem, President of the Saudi Water Authority, said water security remains one of the defining challenges facing communities, industries and economies globally.
“Water security is one of the defining challenges of our time. Around the world, communities, industries and economies are facing growing pressure from scarcity, climate change and rising demand. Addressing these challenges will require stronger international collaboration, faster innovation and greater investment in practical solutions.”
Artificial intelligence and digital water technologies
Artificial intelligence will feature prominently throughout the conference programme, with sessions exploring predictive operations, digital twins, intelligent infrastructure and decision-support systems designed to improve utility performance and long-term resilience.
As utilities increasingly embrace digital transformation, AI is expected to play a growing role in optimising asset management, reducing operational costs and improving water security.
Investment and innovation
The conference will also examine financing models that support water infrastructure development, including public-private partnerships, venture capital investment and technology commercialisation.
Alongside the main conference programme, organisers say IDWS 2026 will feature startup showcases, investor forums, live technology demonstrations and strategic discussions on accelerating the delivery of water projects.
Exhibition themes will include desalination technologies, AI-enabled asset management, circular economy solutions and integrated water infrastructure.
Building international collaboration
International cooperation continues to play an increasingly important role in addressing global water challenges, particularly as countries seek to improve resilience against drought, climate change and population growth.
Events such as IDWS provide a platform for policymakers, researchers, utilities and technology developers to exchange knowledge and explore collaborative approaches to sustainable water management.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is IDWS 2026?
The conference takes place from 7–9 December 2026 at The Ritz-Carlton in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Who organises the event?
IDWS is organised by the Saudi Water Authority.
What topics will be covered?
The programme includes desalination, water security, artificial intelligence, digital water technologies, investment, governance and sustainability.
Who is expected to attend?
According to the organisers, more than 10,000 delegates from around 140 countries are expected to participate.
Where can I find more information?
Further information is available from the official conference website at idwsc.com.
