EtihadWE, Khalifa University partner to advance water quality

emirates7 - Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) and Khalifa University of Science and Technology’s Centre for Membranes & Advanced Water Technology (CMAT) have signed an MoU to boost water treatment and resource management in the UAE. The agreement sets a framework for exploring advanced membrane technologies, improving water quality, and optimizing desalination processes using AI and machine learning.

The MoU includes plans to develop pilot projects for testing new desalination technologies and deploying AI-driven models to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of these processes. The partnership also aims to facilitate knowledge exchange through educational programs, workshops, and competitions, while offering internships and research opportunities.

Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of EtihadWE, noted that the collaboration aligns with efforts to enhance operational efficiency and ensure water security in the northern emirates. By combining Khalifa University’s research expertise with EtihadWE’s practical experience, the partnership aims to advance sustainable water management.

The agreement will also support student engagement and job opportunities, integrating real-world case studies into Khalifa University's curriculum to enrich the academic experience.

Prof Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, expressed enthusiasm for the MoU, emphasizing that it will contribute to advancements in water treatment and resource management. CMAT’s innovations in desalination and sustainable water technologies will play a key role in this collaboration, paving the way for further technological progress.

EtihadWE, a leader in desalination, supports the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036 through initiatives like the Naqa’a desalination plant, which serves around two million residents annually. The plant employs advanced Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) technology and other innovations, reducing energy consumption by over 60%.

Additionally, EtihadWE is committed to minimizing water losses through tools like SmartBall and acoustic inspection technologies. The company has also implemented District Metering to more effectively detect and address leaks, improving water security.

Dr. Shadi W Hasan, Director of CMAT at Khalifa University, highlighted that the partnership represents a major advancement in applying research to real-world water management challenges. By integrating membrane technologies with AI optimization, the collaboration aims to enhance desalination efficiency and ensure a secure water future for the UAE.

Khalifa University's research will be directly integrated into EtihadWE’s projects, allowing for real-world testing and scaling of solutions. CMAT is leading innovations in areas like solar-powered desalination and advanced membrane technologies, reinforcing the university’s leadership in water treatment and desalination. The center is also advancing technologies such as graphene-based biosensors and eco-friendly nanocomposite membranes, further supporting global water and industrial needs.