Abu Dhabi Hosts International Desalination and Reuse Association World Congress 2024, Addressing Global Water Scarcity
The Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi (DoE) unveiled details of the highly anticipated International Desalination and Reuse Association World Congress 2024 (IDRA World Congress 2024) during a media briefing. The event, themed “Addressing Water Scarcity,” will be held from December 8–12 at ADNEC, bringing together global leaders, experts, and innovators to tackle pressing water challenges and promote equitable, sustainable solutions.
H.E. Dr. Saif Saeed Al Qubaisi, Acting Director General of Regulatory Affairs at DoE, emphasized the urgency of addressing water scarcity. "In Abu Dhabi, we are committed to delivering transformative solutions for water management and sustainability," he said. "The IDRA World Congress will unite leaders and changemakers to explore cutting-edge innovations, ensuring a secure, equitable, and sustainable water future."
The Congress will feature over 200 speakers from more than 50 countries across 100+ sessions, panels, and workshops. Topics will include advancements in desalination, water reuse, sustainable water management, and decarbonization strategies.
Shannon McCarthy, Executive Director and Secretary General of IDRA, underscored the event’s importance in driving innovative solutions to global water challenges exacerbated by climate change. "This Congress highlights Abu Dhabi’s commitment to advancing water sustainability and innovation while fostering global collaboration," she noted.
Khalifa Al Qubaisi, Chief Commercial Officer at ADNEC, said: "Hosting this prestigious event at ADNEC reinforces Abu Dhabi’s leadership in sustainable water solutions and innovation. The Congress serves as a platform for global collaboration to address one of humanity’s most pressing issues."
The Congress will also include notable side events such as the XPRIZE Water Scarcity Pre-Congress Team Summit, sponsored by the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, and the Leaders’ Summit focusing on the Water-Energy-Food Nexus, green financing, and industrial water use.
A special youth program hosted by the DoE will feature over 10 sessions on sustainable entrepreneurship, Abu Dhabi’s water journey, and guidance from global leaders, fostering the next generation of water sustainability experts.
With over 800 registered attendees, the IDRA World Congress 2024 aims to catalyze innovation, partnerships, and actionable strategies, ensuring a sustainable future for global water security.
