World Water Day: Preserving resources for a sustainable future

Water is the source of all life on our planet, sustaining ecosystems, communities, and economies. Yet, by the end of 2025, 1.8 billion people will not have direct access to safe water—with a significant portion in the Middle East, one of the most water-scarce regions in the world.

As we mark World Water Day 2025, themed ‘Melting Glaciers’, we are reminded that climate change is accelerating water insecurity globally. While melting glaciers impact sea levels and disrupt freshwater supplies, the Middle East faces its own critical challenge: rapidly rising demand and dwindling water resources. The question is not just about climate change — it’s about how we sustainably manage, optimise, and secure water for the future.

In our arid region, safeguarding water resources is essential for long-term survival. That’s why we remain committed to enhancing water security, improving efficiency, and championing conservation—especially in the Middle East, where demand continues to rise.

Strengthening urban water infrastructure

The increasing strain on urban water systems — caused by climate change, population growth, and industrial expansion — demands smarter infrastructure. According to the UN, by 2050, nearly 68 per cent of the global population will live in urban areas, placing immense pressure on existing water infrastructure. The UAE government has been at the forefront of developing innovative policies and infrastructure projects that align with global sustainability goals.

The UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 aims to ensure sustainable water access through improved efficiency, alternative water sources, and enhanced storage capabilities. This includes investments in advanced desalination technologies, water recycling initiatives, and improved irrigation systems for agriculture. By integrating digital monitoring and AI-driven water management, the UAE is setting a precedent for resilient urban water infrastructure.

For example, Grundfos’ Demand-Driven Distribution (DDD) technology, has helped cities optimise water pressure management. By using sensors and real-time data analysis, DDD ensures water is delivered at optimal pressure, reducing leaks, minimising energy consumption, and enhancing network longevity. Cities such as Singapore and Barcelona have successfully integrated this technology, demonstrating measurable reductions in water loss and operational costs.

Promoting circular water management and wastewater reuse

Preserving water resources goes beyond reducing consumption — it requires innovative approaches to water reuse and circular management. The UAE has taken significant strides in wastewater recycling, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi implementing large-scale water reuse projects.

The country’s water authorities aim to increase the percentage of treated wastewater used for irrigation and industrial purposes, reducing reliance on desalination. Currently, the UAE treats around 70 per cent of its wastewater, with a goal to achieve 100 per cent reuse in the coming years.

As part of this shift, new technologies are helping communities, industries, and urban developments treat and reuse water locally. One example is Decentralised Water Recycling solutions which allow industries, buildings, and urban developments to treat wastewater at the source and reuse it for non-potable purposes. This has been successfully implemented in several European cities and industrial facilities, reducing freshwater dependency and improving water circularity.

Protecting water from climate-induced challenges

With glaciers melting and extreme weather events becoming more frequent, flood resilience is now a critical aspect of urban water management. The UAE has recognised the importance of flood prevention and sustainable drainage systems. Initiatives such as the Abu Dhabi Climate Adaptation Plan outline measures to enhance flood preparedness, including investment in stormwater drainage networks and nature-based solutions.

By 2030, 15 million people and $177bn in urban property will be impacted annually by coastal flooding, while 132 million people and $535 billion in urban property will be impacted annually due to riverine flooding. Global flood damages could exceed unpredictably if no mitigation measures are taken.

To address these risks, cities around the world — including Denmark, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE — are investing in smarter flood management systems. These efforts include high-capacity drainage networks and advanced systems that can efficiently handle large volumes of water during extreme weather events. Such infrastructure plays a key role in safeguarding communities and protecting urban areas from climate-induced water surges.

Driving awareness and action on World Water Day

World Water Day serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness of the importance of sustainable water management.

The UAE government has consistently championed water conservation through national campaigns, policy frameworks, and investments in cutting-edge technologies. Programmes such as the ‘UAE’s Net Zero by 2050’ and the ‘National Climate Change Plan’ reinforce the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term water security.

The global water crisis is a reality, with the UN estimating that by 2025, 1.8 billion people will live in areas plagued by water scarcity, and two-thirds of the world’s population could be under stress conditions. By working together with governments, utilities, and industries, we can ensure that urban water systems are prepared for future challenges while preserving our most precious resource.

As we reflect on the theme of melting glaciers, let us also consider the broader water crisis and our role in securing a sustainable future.

The writer is the regional sales director for India, Central Asia, Middle East and Africa (IMEA) Region at Grundfos.