Saudi Arabia is gearing up to host a highly influential global gathering dedicated to water innovation and sustainability next month in Jeddah. The Innovation Driven Water Sustainability Conference (IDWS 2025) addresses unprecedented global water scarcity, as over two billion people currently lack safe drinking water and demand will exceed supply by 40% by 2030. Under the patronage of Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, Governor of Makkah Region, the Saudi Water Authority (SWA) organizes this critical event from 8 to 10 December at The Ritz-Carlton in Jeddah.
Catalyzing Breakthrough Solutions
Furthermore, the Global Prize for Innovation in Water (GPIW) will recognize and fund breakthrough solutions, essentially reimagining global water production, treatment, and reuse methods. This prize remains the region’s largest water innovation award and one of the world’s most significant globally.
Consequently, winning projects gain financial support and crucial operational backing to pilot and scale their technologies throughout the Kingdom and internationally. Additionally, the Miyahthon (Water Innovation Hackathon) returns, inviting young innovators and entrepreneurs to co-create scalable solutions across the entire water cycle, including production, reuse, and efficient digital management.
For capacity building, the Water Academy will launch advanced professional development programs, partnering with the London Business School and fifteen international training institutions. These specialized courses empower Saudi and Arab professionals with essential expertise in water management, sustainable leadership, and organizational innovation, thereby strengthening regional human capital.
Moreover, an international exhibition will prominently feature cutting-edge technologies and new products, showcasing critical advancements across water treatment, desalination, and resource management.
Global Leaders Convene
The core conference will convene high-level panels and keynote sessions addressing critical water priorities, showcasing a stellar global lineup of thought leaders. Prominent speakers include WAREG President Vera Eiro, Oman’s Dr. Mansoor Al Hinai, Ebb Carbon CEO Ben Tarbell, and the World Bank’s Gustavo Saltiel.
Significantly, IDWS 2025 will include specialized workshops on emerging technologies and sustainability strategies. An international exhibition will showcase innovative products in water treatment and resource management, featuring major organizations like Siemens and ACWA Power.
The conference will convene panels and networking forums, featuring thought leaders from various sectors, as IDWS 2025 reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing water sustainability and innovation, ensuring a secure water future for the Kingdom and beyond.
