Indian Companies Showcase Advanced Green Tech at WETEX 2024, Strengthening UAE-India Ties

The 26th Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) 2024 kicked off on October 1st at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with a significant Indian presence showcasing their latest innovations. A total of 29 leading Indian companies are participating in the Indian pavilion, demonstrating cutting-edge solutions in renewable energy, water treatment, and environmental technologies.

The event, organized by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), will run until October 3rd, providing a platform for global stakeholders to display their advancements in sustainability.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA and Founder and Chairman of WETEX, highlighted the strong collaboration between India and the UAE. He remarked, “The UAE and India enjoy long-standing, historic strategic and trade relations, as well as decades of collaboration and partnership in several sectors. The wide participation of Indian companies in WETEX 2024 is a clear reflection of the strength of these ties, as they join to showcase their technologies in energy, water, and sustainability.”

Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE, echoed these sentiments and emphasized the significance of Indian involvement at the event. He noted that the companies in the Indian pavilion are bringing advanced technologies and sustainable solutions that contribute to both the green economy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The ambassador’s remarks reflect India's active role in driving global sustainability initiatives and addressing environmental challenges.

Strengthening UAE-India Economic Ties

The strong Indian representation at WETEX 2024 underscores the deepening UAE-India economic relationship, which has seen remarkable growth, particularly after the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in May 2022. Between April 2022 and March 2023, the trade volume between the two nations reached a staggering $84.5 billion, with estimates predicting it will surpass $100 billion by 2027. The UAE has also become a major investor in India, ranking seventh with investments totaling $18 billion in 2023.

India’s Growing Water Treatment Industry

One of the most notable aspects of India’s participation in WETEX 2024 is the strong presence of companies involved in water purification and treatment. According to Rishabh Sanghvi, Vice-President of the Water Purification And Treatment Association of Gujarat (WAPTAG), there has been a 50% increase in participation from WAPTAG members this year, reflecting the growing significance of this industry.

He remarked, “Water Treatment Industry in India is growing at a very rapid pace, and India, which was mostly dependent on technologies and products from other countries, is now self-reliant with state-of-the-art facilities developed within India, providing sustainable solutions not just to the Indian market but globally.”

India’s water treatment sector has experienced an annual growth of 200-300%, with companies now offering solutions that cater to both domestic and international markets. This trend reflects India’s increasing self-reliance in water technologies, supported by robust domestic manufacturing and innovation.

Global Significance of WETEX 2024

WETEX 2024 is a truly global event, featuring 16 international pavilions from 14 countries, which highlights its importance in promoting sustainable technologies and fostering international partnerships. As countries worldwide strive to combat climate change and move toward a more sustainable future, platforms like WETEX serve as vital venues for companies and nations to collaborate, exchange ideas, and promote green solutions.

The exhibition also provides an opportunity for Indian companies to showcase their technological innovations, further solidifying India’s reputation as a global leader in the green economy. Through participation in such international platforms, India continues to push forward its agenda of sustainability and economic growth, contributing to a greener world.

Conclusion

The participation of 29 Indian companies at WETEX 2024 demonstrates the increasing importance of India-UAE collaborations in advancing sustainable technologies. With growing trade volumes, strengthened by CEPA, and innovative developments in the energy, water, and environmental sectors, both nations are working toward a shared vision of a sustainable future. As the UAE and India continue to bolster their ties through such initiatives, it is evident that their collaboration will be a cornerstone in the global effort to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable growth.