The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has announced the launch of the Abu Dhabi Global Water Platform, a strategic initiative aimed at addressing growing global water challenges and strengthening water security worldwide.
The platform seeks to mobilise up to $1 billion (Dh3.67 billion) in financing over a five-year period from 2026 to 2030, with the objective of reaching approximately 10 million beneficiaries across developing countries.
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Driving Global Water Security
The Global Water Platform is designed to accelerate high-impact water and sanitation projects, enabling communities to access clean, safe, and sustainable water resources. By supporting innovative technologies, infrastructure development, and integrated water management solutions, the initiative aims to respond to increasing water stress caused by climate change, population growth, and urbanisation.
ADFD stated that the platform will focus on strengthening water and food security, particularly in vulnerable regions, while promoting long-term environmental sustainability.
Investment-Led Development Approach
Unlike traditional aid models, the platform will leverage a diverse range of financing tools, including development financing, private sector participation, equity investments, export financing, and co-financing arrangements. This flexible structure is intended to attract both public and private sector partners and tailor solutions to the specific needs of beneficiary countries.
The initiative will also support research, youth-led innovation, awareness programmes, and applied scientific solutions, reinforcing a holistic approach to tackling water-related challenges.
Strategic Partnerships and Global Alignment
ADFD emphasised that collaboration lies at the heart of the platform. By partnering with governments, international institutions, development agencies, and private sector stakeholders, the Global Water Platform aims to scale impact and improve project effectiveness.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, further underscoring Abu Dhabi’s commitment to global development priorities.
Reinforcing the UAE’s Global Development Role
The launch of the Global Water Platform reinforces the UAE’s position as a key global development partner, using investment-led solutions to address pressing global challenges. By combining finance, innovation, and international cooperation, the platform is expected to play a significant role in improving quality of life, enhancing sustainability, and supporting economic resilience in water-stressed regions.
As water security becomes an increasingly critical global issue, initiatives such as the Abu Dhabi Global Water Platform highlight how strategic financing and cross-border collaboration can deliver lasting developmental impact.
