Abu Dhabi:The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the UAE has mobilized the diplomatic community in preparation for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference. The event, which the UAE will co-host with Senegal from December 8-10, 2026, aims to ensure broad international participation and address global water challenges.
According to Wam, the Ministry held a second diplomatic briefing at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy in Abu Dhabi. The briefing, led by Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, provided updates on the conference preparations, including the program, participation modalities, and logistical arrangements.
This upcoming conference marks the third UN Water Conference in 50 years and will be the first to focus on accelerating the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6, which seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. The UAE and Senegal aim to move beyond dialogue to achieve practical outcomes such as investments, political commitments, and partnerships.
The conference will be structured around three themes over its three days 'Water for Shared Prosperity,' 'Investments for Lives and Livelihood,' and 'Resilient Future Together.' These themes aim to highlight the role of water in international cooperation, economic development, and building resilience for future generations. The program will include six interactive dialogues adopted by Member States, focusing on cooperation, prosperity, investments, and resilience.
In addition to the main conference program, the UAE-hosted Oasis will offer comprehensive programming and side events, providing opportunities for networking and collaboration among diplomats, business leaders, and civil society. The UAE is encouraging Member States to participate actively in these discussions to advance solutions to global water challenges.
The 2026 UN Water Conference will be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), and more information is available on the UAE's dedicated website.