Saeed Alhassan, a professor and founder of the sustainable water technology start-up Manhat, showcased his innovative vision at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, focusing on sustainable water solutions and floating farms.

In 2022, Manhat made significant strides by developing a technology that generates fresh water from the ocean without the need for electricity, enhancing water security in the Arabian Gulf.

The device operates by evaporating water from the ocean, condensing it at night, and collecting it in a reservoir, presenting a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional desalination methods.

Alhassan is dedicated to making Manhat's devices more affordable and accessible, aiming to address the pressing water needs of communities.

The urgency of such innovations is underscored by the fact that the Middle East and North Africa region is severely affected by water stress, with 11 out of the 17 most water-stressed countries located there, according to the UN.

Alhassan emphasized the importance of sustainability initiatives, expressing that being part of the UAE's progress in this area is a significant honor.

Manhat's innovative approach earned it recognition as one of 25 start-ups globally to win a Best Practices Award at Expo 2025, highlighting its potential to tackle global challenges.

In addition to refining their water generation technology, Manhat has filed patents for floating farm solutions that utilize their devices, enabling food production in the face of rising sea levels due to climate change.