Abu Dhabi, December 7, 2024 – The International Desalination and Water Reuse Association World Congress 2024 (IDRA World Congress 2024), hosted by the Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi (DoE), is poised to take place from December 8 – 12 at ADNEC. Under the theme ‘Addressing Water Scarcity,’ the Congress promises to be a groundbreaking event, gathering leaders, experts, and innovators worldwide to confront one of humanity’s most pressing challenges, ensuring water equity and resilience.

At a media briefing ahead of the start of Congress next week, HE Dr Saif Saeed Al Qubaisi, Acting Director General of Regulatory Affairs, Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi said: “Addressing water scarcity requires urgency, innovation, and collaboration and in Abu Dhabi, we are committed to delivering answers to this pressing issue, transforming water management and leading global sustainability efforts. Next week, we will host the IDRA World Congress in Abu Dhabi, addressing water scarcity by uniting leaders, innovators and changemakers to turn ambition into reality. This important event will explore the potential of cutting-edge solutions to shape the evolution of water security and create a future that is secure, equitable and sustainable for all. Let us always remember that today’s drop is tomorrow’s life.”

Over four days, the IDRA World Congress 2024 will feature over 200 speakers representing 50+ countries. Experts will lead discussions across 100+ sessions, panels, and workshops, delving into the latest technical advancements, regulations, finance, and project models in desalination, water reuse, and sustainable water management, water stewardship and decarbonization strategies.

The opening ceremony is expected to welcome 100 VIP attendees, including distinguished local and international government ministers, industry leaders, and international stakeholders, and over 1,500 delegates.

Khalifa Al Qubaisi, Chief Commercial Officer of ADNEC Group; who spoke at the media briefing alongside HE Dr Saif Saeed Al Qubaisi and Shannon McCarthy, Secretary General-Executive Director of IDRA; said: “It is an honor to host the Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi, IDRA, global leaders, and stakeholders at ADNEC Centre for the IDRA World Congress 2024. This event marks the return of the Congress to Abu Dhabi, reaffirming our leadership in sustainable water solutions and innovation. At ADNEC, we take pride in hosting world-class events that position Abu Dhabi as a hub for global collaboration. This Congress serves as a platform for local and international stakeholders to exchange knowledge and pioneer innovative solutions that tackle one of the most pressing global issues.”

Shannon McCarthy, Secretary General-Executive Director of IDRA added: “Climate change intensifies issues like water scarcity and flooding, and innovative solutions such as desalination and water reuse are crucial to addressing this urgent global problem. The IDRA World Congress 2024, hosted in Abu Dhabi in collaboration with the Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi, brings together global and local experts in desalination, water reuse, and renewable energy to find actionable solutions. The Congress highlights Abu Dhabi’s enduring commitment to advancing water sustainability and innovation as we work together to drive progress towards a more resilient future for all.”

In addition to the main program, which includes thematic and technical streams that focus on all aspects related to addressing water scarcity, water resilience, and water security, the Congress will host three side events, including the XPRIZE Water Scarcity Pre-Congress Team Summit sponsored by the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, a USD119 million dollar 5-year global competition designed to address the challenge of water scarcity by driving innovation in affordable and sustainable desalination technologies, as well as the highly anticipated Leaders’ Summit, which will focus on critical themes such as the Water-Energy-Food Nexus, green financing, and corporate leadership in water security.

As part of the congress, The Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi will host a special youth program with over 10 specialized sessions relating to Abu Dhabi’s water journey, Youth Innovation, Sustainable Entrepreneurship, and guidance from previous world leaders. The introduction of the DoE youth program underscores the Department’s commitment to fostering the next generation of water sustainability leaders.

With over 1,500 + registered attendees, IDRA World Congress 2024 is set to be one of the most impactful gatherings to date. This flagship event will catalyze innovation, partnerships, and actionable strategies to address water scarcity challenges and build a sustainable future for generations to come.