UAE Highlights Global Leadership In Water Cooperation Ahead Of 2026 UN Water Conference

Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, led two significant sessions at the UAE Annual Government Meetings. These sessions highlighted the UAE's dedication to advancing both national and international water initiatives. This effort is in preparation for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, which the UAE will co-host with Senegal in December 2026.

During these meetings, Balalaa stressed the need for global cooperation to tackle water issues. He pointed out that 2.2 billion people worldwide still lack access to safe drinking water, while 2.4 billion live in areas with water scarcity. The upcoming UN Water Conference presents a unique chance to promote water as a key factor for peace, security, and sustainable development.

The UAE plans to hold a series of Water Acceleration Workshops in November and December 2025. These workshops will involve national and local bodies, private companies, and civil society groups. They aim to convert national water priorities into actionable projects and improve coordination across sectors before the 2026 UN Water Conference.

The workshops will address five key national priorities: smart governance with data sharing and digital integration; education and community awareness; innovative water infrastructure solutions; groundwater restoration; and sustainable recovery efforts. These areas are crucial for ensuring cohesive national readiness for the conference.

Preparations for the UN Water Conference began in May 2024 after COP28. The conference will focus on speeding up the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure everyone has access to clean water and sanitation. This goal is vital for achieving broader sustainability objectives globally.

On Tuesday, Balalaa chaired the launch of the Water Acceleration Cohort with the Government Accelerators Center of the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs. This session gathered senior representatives from federal and local governments to boost efforts, align cross-sectoral strategies, and speed up preparations for the UN Water Conference.

Global Collaboration Efforts

The following day, Balalaa delivered a National Briefing on the conference's progress to senior representatives. He shared updates on key themes, expected outcomes, and future steps needed to enhance global water cooperation. His presentation aimed at keeping stakeholders informed about ongoing developments.

Balalaa stated that hosting this conference allows the UAE to unite global efforts around water as a means for peace and prosperity. "The Water Acceleration Program embodies our belief that collaboration and innovation are the most powerful tools to secure a shared water future," he said.

The UAE is not only preparing for this significant event but also shaping a long-term vision for sustainable water management that benefits both people and the planet. By taking these steps now, they aim to make a lasting impact on global water security.

With inputs from WAM