• The Middle East faces one of the most severe water crises in the world, characterized by extremely limited resources, high water loss rates in distribution networks, and increasing demand driven by rapid urban and agricultural expansion. In this context, innovative technologies and efficient water management are essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region’s water resources.

Since joining Aganova as Middle East Regional Manager, Alia López has taken on the challenge of spearheading the company’s expansion in a region where sustainable water management is critical. With extensive international experience and a strong background in the water sector, Alia is based in Aganova’s Dubai office, bringing the company’s cutting-edge technology solutions to markets facing significant water resource management challenges. Today, we sit down with her to gain insights into her vision, her experiences at Aganova, and how she is contributing to the mission of reducing water losses in one of the driest regions on the planet.

Based on your experience, what are the main technical challenges in detecting leaks in water transmission networks in the Middle East?

A: The primary technical challenges include the vast scale of transmission networks, the presence of aging infrastructure, and the complexity of the network, all of which require advanced leak detection methods. Additionally, high levels of background noise from pumping stations, urban infrastructure  and civil works can make it difficult to identify small leaks.

In terms of accuracy, how does Aganova’s technology ensure that small leaks are detected before they escalate into major issues?

A: Aganova’s Nautilus system utilizes high-resolution acoustic device that travel within the pipeline, detecting even the smallest anomalies with exceptional precision. Unlike external sensors that are affected by external noise and ground conditions, our in-line technology provides direct and highly accurate leak localization, allowing water utilities to address issues before they become critical failures.

Which pipe materials or configurations are the most difficult to inspect, and how does Aganova’s technology adapt to these challenges?

A: Large-diameter pipes and non-metallic materials, such as HDPE, are among the most challenging to inspect due to their acoustic properties. However, our Nautilus technology is designed to adapt to these variations by leveraging its high sensitivity and ability to navigate complex pipeline geometries, ensuring accurate leak detection across different materials.

How do the extreme climatic conditions of the Middle East impact water networks and leak detection efforts?

A: Extreme temperatures accelerate pipe degradation, increasing the risk of leaks and bursts, particularly in aging infrastructure. Thermal expansion and contraction can also put additional stress on joints. Last but not least, extreme temperatures pose difficulties for our specialists conducting fieldwork.

What specific characteristics of water transmission networks in the Middle East make management and monitoring more complex?

A: Water transmission networks in the region often cover vast distances across remote and arid landscapes. Additionally, the reliance on desalinated water increases operational costs, emphasizing the need for efficient loss prevention.

From a design perspective, what key elements should be considered to minimize water losses in large-scale transmission networks?

A: Selecting high-quality pipeline materials and ensuring joint sealing are important even though pipeline design and execution in the region are already of a high standard., I consider more important the operations and maintenance  including proper pressure management, real-time monitoring through sensorization and a holistic approach of the water assets management. Implementing predictive maintenance strategies reduce water losses and extend asset lifespan.

How does the aging infrastructure affect water loss rates, and what technical solutions can be implemented to modernize these systems?

A: Aging infrastructure leads to higher leak rates and increased maintenance costs. To address this, utilities should adopt proactive asset management strategies, including systematic in-line leak detection and condition assessment technologies and targeted pipeline rehabilitation or replacements, Aganova’s solutions enable utilities to identify weak points and prioritize interventions effectively.

Aganova has already executed projects in key countries such as Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Could you share more details on these success stories and how they have contributed to reducing water losses or improving network efficiency?

A: In Qatar, Aganova collaborated with a major utility to inspect critical transmission lines, successfully identifying and quantifying leaks that had gone undetected for years. In the UAE, we deployed Nautilus in strategic sections of the network, allowing for targeted repairs and a significant reduction in non-revenue water. These projects have demonstrated the value of advanced leak detection in optimizing network performance and sustainability.

What technical or cultural barriers arise in leak detection projects in the region, and how can they be overcome?

A: There are no cultural barriers when it comes to water conservation in the Region. UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman are highly proactive in seeking water efficiency solutions, and the largest smart water contracts I have managed have been in this region. Other parts of the world could take inspiration from the Middle East’s  managers, policies, regulations and investments in water efficiency, as both utilities and governments are committed to sustainability and long-term resource management.

The Middle East, one of the most arid regions on Earth, is home to 5% of the global population yet holds less than 1% of the world’s renewable water resources. In some countries, water loss rates exceed 40%, while rapid urban and agricultural development continues to drive demand. The implementation of advanced technologies like Aganova’s is crucial—not only for reducing losses and optimizing water transmission networks but also as a fundamental step toward long-term water sustainability in a region where every drop counts.