The objective of the opening remarks is to inspire and energize the audience by emphasizing the transformative power of innovation and entrepreneurship in addressing global water challenges. The remarks will highlight the critical role of the Global Prize for Innovation in Desalination (GPID) as a catalyst for advancing cutting-edge technologies, fostering global collaboration, and accelerating the path from groundbreaking ideas to impactful solutions. They will underscore the importance of creating an environment where innovators, investors, and policymakers can work together to achieve sustainable water security, motivating attendees to actively engage in the conference and the broader mission of GPID.

To chart a bold and transformative innovation agenda that establishes Saudi Arabia as a global leader in sustainable water management aligned with SDGs and ESG principles. This panel will bring together global water organizations, innovation leaders, and experts in water management to explore groundbreaking solutions that address the world's most pressing water challenges. The discussion will focus on pushing the boundaries of conventional water management through the integration of circular pathways, including advanced water reuse, brine valorisation, and carbon capture, to maximize resource recovery and drive toward a zero-cost water future. It will also emphasize the role of disruptive innovations in desalination, energy-efficient water systems, smart water grids, and entrepreneurial ventures that accelerate technology deployment. By leveraging cross-sector collaboration and fostering sustainability, resilience, and economic value, Saudi Arabia can pioneer a new model of holistic water stewardship. This model will not only secure water resources for its growing population and economic sectors but also inspire a global movement toward a water-secure, climate-adaptive, and innovation-driven future.