The issue of potable water scarcity around the world has led several companies operating in this sector to invest in research using new technologies for water production and storage, limiting water wastage and rationalising consumption. Global research and developmental efforts have led to a qualitative shift in water desalination, reducing costs, wastewater treatment, and introducing alternative clean energy sources to desalinate water, such as solar power and other innovative technologies.
The innovative solutions and advanced technologies relating to water issues are a priority of the 20th Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX 2018). It is organised by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) under the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE Minister of Finance and President of DEWA. The event will be held from 23rd to 25th October, 2018 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre under the theme ‘At the forefront of sustainability’, highlighting the latest developments and technologies in the fields of water, energy, and environment.
The region’s largest-of-its-kind exhibition coincides with the third Dubai Solar Show which highlights the latest innovations in the solar energy sector, especially in relation to desalination and water treatment using solar power. The exhibition will also focus on the region’s largest projects in this sector by providing participants with a unique platform to build partnerships with governmental and private sectors with the aim to develop innovative solutions.
This year, WETEX 2018 will bring together the world’s most proficient professionals in the water technology sector, showcasing water treatment and desalination plants, pipes, coolers, heaters, water purifiers, pumps and valves, state-of-the-art irrigation systems, agriculture and horticulture equipment, and dewatering equipment. The event will also focus on rationalisation of water consumption by highlighting products for leak detection and treatment products, lining tanks, and other materials used in the water sector.
During the two exhibitions, DEWA will also highlight its strategic plan to improve the efficiency of the water network and support sustainable development. The UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia), under the umbrella of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), will also demonstrate its support by launching international sustainable and developmental projects. Suqia also aims to implement the objectives of MBRGI to combat poverty and disease by contributing to the establishment of durable and sustainable solutions to water scarcity using solar energy and sustainable solutions. By the end of 2017, more than 8 million people from 25 countries around the world have benefitted from Suqia’s projects.
The two events are being organised this year after attaining a remarkable success last year among exhibitors, visitors, participants from around the world. The two exhibitions attracted over 31,000 visitors. Over 2,000 exhibitors from 50 countries took part in WETEX 2017, which covered an area of 70,000 square metres and had 75 sponsors. The 2nd Dubai Solar Show attracted 108 exhibitors from 11 countries as well as 10 sponsors.
This year, DEWA organises the two events under the umbrella of the fifth Green Week in conjunction with the fifth World Green Economy Summit (WGES) which will be attended by international experts and specialists working in the fields of green economy, smart cities, and innovation.