Abdullah bin Zayed chairs 2026 UN Water Conference meeting

UAE steps up preparations for 2026 UN Water conference

This initiative forms part of the United Arab Emirates’s preparations to host the 2026 UN Water Conference, reflecting its strong commitment to strengthening water sector resilience and reinforcing water as a global strategic priority.

High-level national committee

The National Higher Committee includes prominent leaders such as H.H. Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, alongside ministers including Reem Al Hashimy, Suhail Al Mazrouei, Sultan Al Jaber, Mohamed Al Suwaidi, Amna Al Dahak, and Lana Nusseibeh.

The committee also comprises senior officials from key national institutions, including the Presidential Court, National Media Authority, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, and Abu Dhabi Police.

Urgency of addressing water challenges

During the meeting, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan stressed the need for intensified and coordinated efforts at both national and international levels to tackle water challenges, highlighting their connection to food security, energy, and environmental sustainability.

Innovation and technology in water management

He emphasised the importance of leveraging innovation and advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve water management efficiency and develop scalable solutions to global challenges.

Delivering impactful outcomes

His Highness underscored that achieving meaningful and lasting outcomes from the Conference requires strong alignment, innovation, and collective action among governments, institutions, and stakeholders.

Progress on conference preparations

Abdulla Balalaa presented an overview of preparations, including progress made, the UAE’s strategic vision, and its ambition to deliver a high-impact Conference.

He highlighted key milestones, including a July 2025 agreement by all UN Member States at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on the themes of six Interactive Dialogues, reflecting renewed confidence in multilateral cooperation.

Focus on practical solutions

Balalaa noted that the UAE’s strong implementation-driven approach aligns with the Conference’s core objective of accelerating progress on Sustainable Development Goal 6, while ensuring outcomes that are actionable, measurable, and scalable.

Commitment to a successful conference

The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to organising a successful Conference that supports the UAE’s long-term vision for sustainable water management and places water at the heart of the global development agenda.