Jeddah is set to host the fifth edition of the Innovation-Driven Water Sustainability Conference (IDWS 2026) from December 14 to 16, 2026. The conference aims to bridge the gap between research and development of water solutions and their real-world deployment. It will bring together experts, researchers, innovators, investors, and representatives of water-sector organisations from over 140 countries.
The conference will feature over 250 speakers and is expected to attract more than 10,000 participants. An international exhibition will showcase more than 150 global brands. Eng. Tariq Al-Ghafari, Deputy President for Innovation and Promising Technology at the Saudi Authority, highlighted the conference's role as a global platform for discussing opportunities and challenges, showcasing solutions and technologies, and strengthening international cooperation.
The global market for water security and water infrastructure management is estimated at approximately USD 303.8 billion. The value of anticipated construction and engineering projects for water and wastewater facilities exceeds USD 1.2 trillion. Achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals related to clean water and sanitation will require additional investment of between USD 131 billion and USD 140 billion annually.
The conference addresses pressing water issues, including droughts, floods, and rising demand, which are increasing the need for more reliable, resilient, and adaptable water systems. According to the World Health Organization and UNICEF, 1.8 billion people still live in households without water supplies located on their premises. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations estimates that agriculture accounts for approximately 72% of global freshwater withdrawals.
The conference will focus on treated-water reuse, the advancement of the circular economy, and the application of artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and data analytics in planning, operations, and asset management. These solutions can improve service performance and water-use efficiency across multiple sectors. Discussions will also examine the role of policy, governance, financing, and capacity building in enabling the adoption of promising technologies.
Particular attention will be given to aligning scientific research with operational requirements to strengthen the viability of water innovations and ensure their sustainable impact in real-world applications. The programme will include the “Miahthon” platform, showcasing start-up solutions, and the Global Prize for Innovation in Water. These initiatives will highlight promising ideas and facilitate partnerships that support their market entry, adoption, and wider deployment.
IDWS 2026 serves as a critical platform for stakeholders to collaborate and address the world's water challenges. With its comprehensive programme and global participation, the conference is poised to drive meaningful progress in water sustainability and security. The event's outcomes are expected to have a lasting impact on the future of water management and innovation worldwide.
Key points
- The conference aims to accelerate the transition of water solutions from research and development to real-world deployment.
- Over 250 speakers and 10,000 participants are expected to attend the conference.
- The global market for water security and water infrastructure management is estimated at approximately USD 303.8 billion.
