WETEX 2026 launches dedicated platform for water innovation

The 28th edition of the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX 2026), organised by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), is set to unveil a dedicated Water Platform at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 20 to 22 October 2026.

Designed to address escalating global resource pressures, this specialised hub will showcase cutting-edge innovations, smart technologies, and advanced solutions aimed at reshaping modern water infrastructure and securing sustainable urban development across the region.

The Strategic Imperative of Global Water Security

Water security remains an essential foundation for long-term ecological stability, societal health, and robust economic prosperity. Amid mounting challenges driven by rapid population growth, intensive urban expansion, and unpredictable climate shifts, utilities and governments face immense pressure to modernise resource oversight. Integrating advanced engineering, digital automation, and efficiency-focused frameworks is no longer optional; it is a critical mandate for modern civilisations striving to secure reliable supplies for future generations.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, Founder and Chairman of WETEX, emphasised the urgency of these developments:

“Water security is one of the fundamental pillars of sustainable development, enhancing quality of life and supporting economic growth. In light of the growing challenges related to population growth, urban expansion and climate change, there is an increasing need to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies and innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency of water resource management and contribute to ensuring the reliability and sustainability of water supplies.”

What to Expect at the Specialised Water Platform

Located within Sheikh Saeed Hall 3, the dedicated Water Platform will function as an interactive epicentre for international corporations, research institutions, industry pioneers, and environmental specialists. The space is engineered to foster high-value partnerships, encourage public-private sector collaboration, and accelerate the commercialisation of breakthrough green technologies.

Key highlights and focal points of the platform include:

• Advanced Desalination: Showcasing next-generation reverse osmosis systems and energy-efficient purification processes designed to reduce environmental impact.

• Smart Utility Networks: Highlighting automated monitoring tools, sensor-driven leakage detection, and data-driven network management to minimise resource loss.

• Artificial Intelligence Integration: Exploring how machine learning algorithms and predictive maintenance models optimise large-scale water distribution pipelines.

• Specialised Seminars: Hosting daily expert-led sessions from 11:00 am to 2:50 pm, offering deep dives into operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer further highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative:

“The Water Platform at WETEX provides a dedicated space that brings together key organisations, experts and specialists from around the world to exchange knowledge, expertise and best practices, as well as explore the latest technologies and innovative solutions that support a more sustainable and resilient future for all. It also contributes to strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors.”

Driving Global Dialogue and Sustainable Innovation

Over nearly three decades, the exhibition has evolved into a premier international marketplace for clean energy, environmental protection, and resource optimisation. Last year's milestone event welcomed over 50,000 visitors from 65 countries, featuring 3,100 exhibiting brands across 18 international pavilions. By spotlighting pioneering water solutions, WETEX 2026 aims to galvanise investment and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030.

Reflecting on the broader vision of the event, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer noted:

“Over 28 years, WETEX has consolidated its position as a leading global platform that brings together decision-makers, investors, developers, research centres and technology providers under one roof to promote dialogue, build partnerships and stimulate investment across various sustainability sectors. Allocating a dedicated platform to water underscores the strategic importance of the sector and its pivotal role in achieving water security and supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030.”

As registration numbers climb and international delegations finalise their participation, WETEX 2026 stands ready to redefine the boundaries of what is possible in global water management.