Qatar Expands Water Networks and Desalination Capacity to Strengthen Water Security
Qatar is expanding its water infrastructure through continued investment in desalination capacity, transmission and distribution networks, and digital monitoring systems to strengthen supply reliability and meet future demand.
Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) has commissioned 132km of water pipelines, implemented 40km of distribution lines and advanced projects covering a further 116km, according to its latest update.
The newly commissioned pipelines range from 100mm to 1,600mm in diameter, reflecting ongoing efforts to expand network capacity and improve the efficiency and resilience of the national water supply system.
Qatar’s main and secondary water distribution networks have grown steadily, increasing from approximately 6,300km in 2015 to around 7,900km by the first half of 2025. Kahramaa plans to extend the networks to approximately 8,200km by the end of 2028.
The distribution network expansion complements the development of the country’s water transmission system and the commissioning of major water reservoirs, which provide additional storage capacity and enhance supply reliability.
Desalination remains central to Qatar’s water security strategy. The country’s desalinated drinking water production capacity reached approximately 538 million imperial gallons per day in 2024, following the expansion of the Umm Al Houl plant. Capacity is expected to increase to 648 million imperial gallons per day following the planned commissioning of the new Ras Abu Fontas Facility E in 2028.
The combined investments in production, storage, transmission and distribution infrastructure are intended to ensure that water supplies keep pace with urban growth and rising consumption. Kahramaa maintains continuous water transmission and distribution to subscribers, with water quality standards aligned with international specifications.
Network efficiency and digital monitoring
Reducing water losses and improving network performance are also key priorities. Kahramaa is replacing ageing pipelines that have exceeded their expected operational lifespan while extending connections to new subscribers to improve service reliability and operational efficiency.
Digital monitoring supports the management of the expanding water network. Through its Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system at the National Water Control Centre, Kahramaa monitors and controls operations across the water supply system.
The system enables remote supervision and control of desalination plants, water storage facilities and pumping stations, while tracking pressure levels across distribution networks. It also supports water-quality monitoring at production and storage facilities, providing operational oversight to help maintain system performance.
Through continued investment in infrastructure renewal, desalination, storage and digital technologies, Qatar is strengthening the resilience of its water supply system while preparing to meet future demand.