Fifth TRENDS Annual Conference Addresses Global Water Security Challenges In Abu Dhabi
The fifth Annual Conference on Sustainable Water Security, organised by TRENDS Research & Advisory, commenced in Abu Dhabi. The event, themed "Sustainable Water Security: Shaping a Water-Secure Future Through Innovation and Knowledge," was inaugurated by Sheikh Khalifa bin Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan. The conference aims to bridge academic knowledge with practical expertise through an exhibition featuring nine government and private entities.
Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali, CEO of TRENDS Research & Advisory, highlighted the urgency of addressing water security as a major challenge of the 21st century. He cited a report by the World Health Organisation and UNICEF from August 2025, which states that 2.1 billion people lack access to safe drinking water. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of the global population faces severe water scarcity for at least one month each year.
Abdulla Balalaa from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised TRENDS' role as a global intellectual hub. He noted that hundreds of millions face water shortages annually, with future demand expected to rise significantly. Balalaa highlighted the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative 2024, aiming to tackle the crisis through innovation and sustainable technologies.
Eng. Ahmed Mohammed Al-Rumaithi from the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy stressed water security's importance in the UAE's national agenda. He linked this commitment to the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, reflecting leadership's vision for addressing future challenges. The UAE has become a leader in using advanced technologies for large-scale water scarcity solutions.
The conference introduced two initiatives to advance scientific research and empower youth in water security. The TRENDS Water Security Research Competition encourages research on sustainability issues, offering a platform for innovative ideas. It targets students, researchers, and experts in environment, energy, water, and public policy fields.
The TRENDS Water Security Youth Council was also launched to empower young people in sustainable water resource management research and development. This initiative aims to encourage active participation in solving related challenges.
Interactive Sessions and Future Prospects
The first day featured interactive dialogue sessions with three main panel discussions focusing on different aspects of water security. These sessions combined scientific discussions with practical showcases at the exhibition. The conference continues with more sessions aimed at fostering knowledge-based dialogue and presenting innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
Dr. Al-Ali emphasised that achieving water security is linked to climate change adaptation, food systems, economic stability, and sustainable development. SDG 6 aims for universal access to water and sanitation while intersecting with other goals like poverty eradication and ecosystem protection.
Balalaa called for international cooperation to design effective strategies for managing water resources sustainably. He stressed that innovation is essential for building a secure future through modern technology investment and infrastructure development.
The UAE's significant investments in desalination projects have increased water availability while making production processes more efficient and cost-effective. Eng. Al-Rumaithi noted that systematic management and long-term commitment are crucial for safeguarding resources.
The conference underscores TRENDS' role as a think tank committed to fostering dialogue based on knowledge while contributing practical solutions for a secure future across generations.
With inputs from WAM
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