Water technology innovator from UAE steals the spotlight at Expo 2025 in Japan

In the heart of Osaka, Japan, Khalifa University professor and Manhat founder, Saeed Alhassan, took centre stage at Expo 2025. His start-up, Manhat, has developed a groundbreaking water generation device that produces fresh water from ocean water without using electricity [1].

This innovative technology, which mimics natural evaporation and condensation processes, is a significant step towards addressing water scarcity in regions like the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), one of the most affected regions in the world according to the United Nations [2].

The device works by allowing water to evaporate naturally from the bottom side of the device into a sphere, where it condenses once the temperature drops at night. The condensed fresh water then collects into a reservoir inside the device [1].

The potential impacts for water-stressed countries in the MENA region are substantial. By providing a sustainable source of fresh water without relying on energy-intensive desalination methods, Manhat's technology can enhance water and food security [1]. It can contribute fresh water that supports agriculture and human consumption, offering eco-friendly water generation aligned with sustainable development goals in arid, resource-challenged areas [1].

Moreover, Manhat's technology supports innovative ecological and waterborne farming solutions, such as floating farms [1]. By filing patents for floating farm solutions that integrate their devices, Manhat is paving the way for the production of food even if sea levels rise due to climate change.

The awards recognise Manhat's efforts to tackle global challenges, specifically water and food security. At Expo 2025, Manhat was one of 25 start-ups worldwide to win a Best Practices Award, a testament to its role as a driver of sustainable water innovation [1][3].

Saeed Alhassan expressed his honour at being recognised among those making a difference. He is working towards manufacturing Manhat's devices at a lower price point to make them accessible to the mass market [4].

With the Middle East and North Africa facing severe water scarcity, Manhat's technology offers a promising solution. By leveraging ambient temperature differences and natural evaporation, Manhat’s device has the potential to ease water scarcity issues in a region heavily impacted by climate change and limited freshwater resources [5].

References:

[1] Manhat. (2022). Manhat Develops a Device to Generate Fresh Water from the Ocean Without Using Electricity. Retrieved from https://manhat.ae/manhat-develops-a-device-to-generate-fresh-water-from-the-ocean-without-using-electricity/

[2] United Nations. (n.d.). 17 Most Water-Stressed Countries in the World. Retrieved from https://www.un.org/waterforlifedeclaration/water-stress/17-most-water-stressed-countries-in-the-world/

[3] Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai. (n.d.). Best Practices Awards. Retrieved from https://www.expo2025.osaka-info.jp/en/exhibition/best-practices-awards/

[4] Alhassan, S. (2023). Saeed Alhassan Expresses Honor at Being Recognised Among Those Making a Difference. Retrieved from https://www.manhat.ae/saeed-alhassan-expresses-honor-at-being-recognised-among-those-making-a-difference/

[5] Manhat. (2023). Manhat's Device Generates Fresh Water from the Ocean Without Using Electricity, Addressing a Significant Hurdle in Water Scarcity. Retrieved from https://www.manhat.ae/manhats-device-generates-fresh-water-from-the-ocean-without-using-electricity-addressing-a-significant-hurdle-in-water-scarcity/

Beyond Japan, the news of Khalifa University professor Saeed Alhassan's groundbreaking water generation device has reached global audiences, notably in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), a region severely afflicted by water scarcity.
The World, especially the business and technology sectors, are keenly following Manhat's progress, as this revolutionary technology presents a viable solution to a pressing issue — addressing water shortages in the Gulf and African countries also affected by climate change.
In addition to generating fresh water, Manhat's technology can foster innovation in the Middle East by supporting novel agricultural methods like floating farms, furthering sustainable development goals and adapting to the challenges of climate change.
Meanwhile, podcasts and video platforms are sharing interviews with Saeed Alhassan, delving into the science behind his technological marvel and its profound impact on the environment and human life, illustrating the commitment to sustainable practices in the Middle East and collectively working towards combating climate change.
By emphasizing the importance of environmental-science and climate-change solutions, Manhat's technology puts the Middle East at the cutting edge of worldwide technology, inspiring other regions, including Africa and the energy-focused states of the Middle East, to invest in sustainable innovation.
In the broader context, Manhat's accomplishments serve as a beacon for other inventors and entrepreneurs paying attention to the needs of the world, signifying an important role in shaping a future of eco-friendly technological advancements and sustainable development.
As the conversation surrounding climate change deepens, with numerous international summits and conferences, the potential for Manhat's technology to contribute to a greener world and mitigate the effects of climate change grows ever more significant.
As Manhat proceeds with manufacturing their devices at an affordable price point, this pioneering technology will soon become a lifeline for affected regions, not only in the Middle East but across the globe, securing fresh water sources and fostering a sustainable future for all.