Jeddah will host the fifth edition of the Innovation-Driven Water Sustainability Conference (IDWS 2026) from December 14 to 16, bringing together international experts, researchers, innovators, investors, and water-sector organisations to accelerate the adoption of innovative water solutions and strengthen global water security.
The conference will focus on moving water technologies from research and development into practical applications, connecting innovators with investors and end users to improve service efficiency and promote the sustainable management of water resources.
IDWS 2026 is expected to welcome more than 10,000 participants from over 140 countries, with a programme featuring more than 250 speakers. An international exhibition will also showcase over 150 global brands, highlighting developments in water technologies and sustainability solutions.
Eng. Tariq Al-Ghafari, Deputy President for Innovation and Promising Technology, said the conference provides a global platform to explore opportunities and challenges in the water sector, present the latest solutions and technologies, and strengthen international cooperation.
He highlighted the scale of the investment opportunity in the sector, noting that the global market for water security and water infrastructure management is estimated at approximately USD 303.8 billion. Meanwhile, anticipated construction and engineering projects for water and wastewater facilities exceed USD 1.2 trillion.
Studies further estimate that achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals related to clean water and sanitation will require additional annual investment of between USD 131 billion and USD 140 billion.
The conference comes amid mounting pressure on water systems from droughts, floods, and growing demand, increasing the need for infrastructure that is more reliable, resilient, and adaptable to changing conditions.
According to the World Health Organization and UNICEF, 1.8 billion people still live in households without a water supply on their premises. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations estimates that agriculture accounts for approximately 72% of global freshwater withdrawals, underscoring the importance of improving water-use efficiency across key economic sectors.
The conference programme will explore a range of approaches to addressing these challenges, including treated wastewater reuse and the development of a circular economy. It will also examine how artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and data analytics can enhance water-sector planning, operational performance, and asset management.
These technologies offer opportunities to improve service delivery and optimise water use across different sectors. Discussions will also address the role of policy frameworks, governance, financing, and capacity building in supporting the adoption of promising innovations.
A key focus will be bridging the gap between scientific research and operational needs to strengthen the practical viability of water technologies and ensure that innovations deliver sustainable, measurable benefits when deployed in real-world settings.
IDWS 2026 will also feature the “Miahthon”, platforms dedicated to showcasing start-up solutions, and the Global Prize for Innovation in Water. These initiatives are designed to spotlight promising ideas, encourage partnerships, and support the introduction, adoption, and wider deployment of innovative water solutions.
