Saudi Arabia to Host Global Water Congress IDRA 2026 in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia will host the 21st World Congress on Desalination and Water Reuse, IDRA 2026, in Riyadh from November 1-5, 2026. The event, organized by the Saudi Water Authority under the patronage of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, will bring together leaders and experts from 100 countries to address global water security challenges.

Context and Background

This is the first time the congress will be held in the Kingdom, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s advanced position in the global water sector. With over 400 specialized professionals and more than 2,200 participants expected, the congress serves as a platform for discussing innovative solutions and fostering international cooperation.

Key Details

The congress will take place at the King Faisal Conference Center at the InterContinental Riyadh, under the theme “Leading Global Water Resilience through Innovation.” The event is organized in collaboration with the International Desalination and Water Reuse Association (IDRA). In a strategic partnership, the Water Sector Regulatory Forum will lead discussions, bringing together regulatory bodies and industry leaders to develop policies and regulatory frameworks.

The scientific program includes 25 sessions, over 200 technical presentations, and more than 240 peer-reviewed papers across four parallel tracks over four days. The program covers 58 subtopics in six key areas: research and innovation, circular water economy and climate change adaptation, digital transformation and artificial intelligence, energy efficiency, water reuse regulation, and project implementation.

Implications and Impact

The congress will address technical and financial solutions for improving water supply systems, expanding water reuse, reducing emissions, and increasing sector resilience. It also seeks to strengthen international cooperation and promote practical innovations to overcome water supply challenges. Specialized forums, an exhibition, workshops, the 2nd World Desalination Hackathon, and the IDRA Awards ceremony will complement the main event.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Hosting the congress underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable development and technological leadership, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of economic diversification and environmental stewardship. By advancing water security and fostering global partnerships, the Kingdom reinforces its role as a leader in addressing one of the most pressing global challenges, contributing to a more sustainable future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the 21st World Congress on Desalination and Water Reuse?

A1. The 21st World Congress on Desalination and Water Reuse, also known as IDRA 2026, is an international conference focused on addressing global water security challenges through innovation and collaboration in desalination and water reuse.

Q2. Where and when will IDRA 2026 take place?

A2. IDRA 2026 will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, at the King Faisal Conference Center at the InterContinental Riyadh, from November 1 to November 5, 2026.

Q3. Who is organizing IDRA 2026?

A3. The congress is organized by the Saudi Water Authority under the patronage of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, in collaboration with the International Desalination and Water Reuse Association (IDRA).

Q4. How many countries are expected to participate in IDRA 2026?

A4. Leaders and experts from 100 countries are expected to participate, bringing a diverse international perspective to the discussions.

Q5. What is the theme of IDRA 2026?

A5. The theme of the congress is “Leading Global Water Resilience through Innovation,” emphasizing the role of innovation in ensuring sustainable water management.

Q6. Why is hosting IDRA 2026 significant for Saudi Arabia?

A6. Hosting IDRA 2026 showcases Saudi Arabia’s leading position in the global water sector and its expertise in desalination, water reuse, and management, supporting its Vision 2030 ambitions.

Q7. What are the main topics to be discussed at IDRA 2026?

A7. The congress will cover topics such as research and innovation, circular water economy, climate change adaptation, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, energy efficiency, water reuse regulation, and project implementation.

Q8. How many sessions and presentations are planned?

A8. The scientific program includes 25 sessions, over 200 technical presentations, and more than 240 peer-reviewed scientific and technical papers.

Q9. What is the Water Sector Regulatory Forum?

A9. The Water Sector Regulatory Forum is a platform within the congress that brings together regulatory bodies, decision-makers, and industry leaders to share experiences and develop policies and regulations for the water sector.

Q10. What is the expected audience size for IDRA 2026?

A10. The event is expected to welcome over 400 specialized professionals and more than 2,200 participants from around the world.

Q11. What special events will accompany the congress?

A11. The congress will feature three specialized forums, a dedicated exhibition, workshops, the 2nd World Desalination Hackathon, and the IDRA Awards ceremony.

Q12. How does IDRA 2026 contribute to global water security?

A12. By facilitating the exchange of knowledge and innovative solutions, the congress aims to improve water supply systems, expand water reuse, reduce emissions, and enhance sector resilience to scarcity and growing demand.

Q13. What is the role of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the congress?

A13. The ministry provides patronage to the event, supporting its organization and ensuring alignment with Saudi Arabia’s national environmental and water strategies.

Q14. How does the congress support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

A14. The congress highlights Vision 2030’s goals of innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification, showcasing the Kingdom’s commitment to modernizing its water sector and achieving sustainable development.

Q15. What is the significance of the event being in Riyadh?

A15. Riyadh’s selection as the host city underscores Saudi Arabia’s capital as a hub for international conferences and its strategic position in leading global water initiatives.

Q16. What is the International Desalination and Water Reuse Association?

A16. IDRA is a global association that promotes sustainable desalination and water reuse practices, providing a platform for collaboration among industry experts, researchers, and policymakers.

Q17. How can interested participants register for IDRA 2026?

A17. Registration is available online at the official congress website: https://idraworldcongress.org.

Q18. What is the 2nd World Desalination Hackathon?

A18. The 2nd World Desalination Hackathon is a competitive event where participants collaborate to develop innovative solutions for desalination-related challenges, promoting creativity and practical problem-solving.

Q19. How does IDRA 2026 address climate change?

A19. The congress includes sessions on circular water economy and adaptation to climate change, focusing on reducing emissions and building resilience to climate-related water challenges.

Q20. What is the expected outcome of IDRA 2026?

A20. The congress aims to produce actionable insights and foster international partnerships, leading to improved water security and sustainable management practices worldwide.

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