WETEX: A pioneering journey keeping pace with global transformations in energy, water and sustainability markets

Nearly three decades after its launch, the Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) has evolved into a comprehensive platform spanning sectors from energy and water to green development, digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), decarbonisation, green mobility, hydrogen and sustainable cities. Its journey reflects the changing landscape of energy, water and sustainability markets, as well as evolving investment, technological and development priorities. The 28th edition of WETEX, organised by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), will be held from 20 to 22 October 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

“WETEX has become a leading platform for supporting partnerships, exchanging knowledge and expertise, exploring business opportunities and accelerating the adoption of innovative technologies and solutions. It brings together businesses, government entities, investors, experts and decision-makers. Over the past 28 years, the exhibition has kept pace with developments in the energy, water and sustainability sectors, as well as transformations across these markets. Energy markets have expanded to include solar energy, storage technologies and smart grids; water networks have become more digitally integrated, with greater emphasis on loss management; and buildings have shifted from focusing on consumption efficiency to broader systems that include automation and smart cities. With each wave of technological and investment transformation, WETEX has expanded its scope to meet market needs and accommodate emerging technologies and sectors,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA and Founder and Chairman of WETEX.

Origins and expansion

WETEX’s inaugural edition in 1999 focused on water management. In 2001, the exhibition expanded to include energy, followed by environmental themes in 2004. As sustainability evolved from an environmental concept into a central consideration in urban and infrastructure planning, green building solutions and carbon emissions reduction gained prominence in 2008. By 2012, WETEX had further expanded its scope to include clean and renewable energy and smart grids.

In 2014, WETEX coincided with the launch of the World Green Economy Summit, while 2016 saw the launch of the Dubai Solar Show, as renewable energy projects in the region progressed from early initiatives to large-scale developments. Since then, the exhibition has continued to broaden its scope to include AI, cyber security, green mobility, hydrogen and technologies related to sustainable cities, becoming an integrated platform that serves a diverse range of sustainable infrastructure markets.

WETEX 2025

Figures from the 27th edition of the exhibition (WETEX 2025) illustrate the scale of WETEX’s growth since its launch. Covering 95,000 square metres, the exhibition hosted 3,100 exhibitors, 18 international pavilions and 68 sponsors, and welcomed more than 50,000 visitors from around the world. WETEX 2025 also witnessed the signing of numerous memorandums of understanding and agreements, in addition to 7,862 meetings facilitated through its business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) services, creating opportunities for companies to connect with investors, secure deals and forge partnerships.

These figures reflect not only the exhibition’s growth but also its expanding influence within the regional and global business and investment ecosystem. International pavilions have become a strategic gateway for companies and technologies from different markets seeking access to a region witnessing rapid investment in electricity, water, renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. WETEX 2025 featured country pavilions from Asia, Europe and North America, reinforcing its position as a bridge between global suppliers and regional markets.

Beyond the exhibition

WETEX has become a focal point for a broader cycle of economic activity that begins well before the exhibition through engagement with markets, companies and international delegations. During the event, this activity takes shape through technology showcases, meetings, negotiations and knowledge exchange, before extending into partnerships, contracts and new business opportunities. This role has been strengthened through specialised platforms, dedicated zones for emerging sectors and technical and knowledge seminars. In 2025, the exhibition expanded its focus on smart grids and AI, alongside sustainable mobility and health and safety, reflecting its ability to keep pace with evolving technological and market trends.

WETEX’s ability to evolve and adapt to rapidly changing global dynamics has been instrumental in establishing its position as a leading platform that brings together markets, expertise and technologies. It supports investment, partnerships and innovative solutions while helping to accelerate the region’s transition towards a green economy and sustainable development.