Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman has won a vote to host the 2028 International Water Loss Conference. This makes Oman the first country in the Middle East to host the biennial event.

According to Oman News Agency, the conference seeks to devise innovative solutions and exchange views about the best practices in minimizing water loss and optimizing the efficiency of water distribution networks and related services.

The voting took place during Oman's participation in the 2026 edition of the global conference organized by the International Water Association (IWA) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The conference studied strategies and technologies on minimizing water loss, managing water distribution, and exploring the most sustainable practices in this field.

The selection of Oman to host the conference was the outcome of successful transition in its water sector that adopts an integrated approach based on the use of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), digital twin systems, micro-sensing technologies, and expansion in the scope of proactive solutions. This earned Oman the confidence of the international community and enhanced the country's status as a regional hub for innovation in this vital domain.

Qais Saud Al Zakwani, CEO of Nama Water Services, said, 'The Sultanate of Oman's selection to host the forthcoming international conference represents a milestone in the management of the water sector and underscores the growing international awareness about Oman's experience in the sustainable management of water loss.'

Al Zakwani told Oman News Agency (ONA) that the conference would serve as a platform for exploring new vistas of international cooperation and the exchange of knowledge and experiences, in addition to highlighting Oman's experience as an advanced regional model in managing water loss. The conference would also contribute to accelerating the adoption of modern technologies and promoting innovation in this vital sector, he added.

He pointed out that this achievement reflects the Sultanate of Oman's commitment to a steadfast approach based on innovation, sustainability, and institutional integration.

'This milestone enhances Oman's active contribution to international efforts to address water challenges and consolidates the country's status as a reliable partner in shaping a more secure and sustainable future for next generations,' Al Zakwani observed.