Water Resources Systems

As Egypt’s leading institution in applied water research, the National Water Research Center (NWRC) plays a pivotal role in understanding, managing, and optimizing the nation’s water resources. The Water Resources Systems theme brings together NWRC’s expertise in surface and groundwater systems, agricultural water use, and integrated management approaches. Through its advanced facilities, field stations, and multidisciplinary research teams, NWRC delivers high-impact solutions to support national planning, water security, and sustainable development.

Surface Water Hydraulics & Hydrology

  • NWRC conducts cutting-edge research in river hydraulics, flood management, sediment transport, and hydrological forecasting. Key strengths include:

    • Large-scale physical modeling halls for rivers, canals, and barrages
    • Advanced hydrodynamic modeling software for flood and irrigation system simulation
    • A robust national surface water monitoring network with over 200 hydrological stations
    • Studies supporting the design and rehabilitation of key Nile River structures and irrigation infrastructure

    NWRC has supported major national projects such as the Aswan High Dam studies, Delta Barrage rehabilitation, and irrigation modernization programs.

Irrigation, Drainage & Agricultural Water Management

  • NWRC supports Egypt’s efforts to optimize agricultural water use through:

    • Field-scale studies on water-use efficiency and on-farm irrigation systems
    • Research on drainage water reuse, salinity control, and water productivity
    • Development of smart irrigation tools and localized irrigation scheduling models
    • Advisory services for national and international irrigation projects

    NWRC collaborates with the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Users Associations to enhance food security while preserving water resources.

Groundwater Resources & Aquifer Management

NWRC provides scientific guidance for sustainable groundwater development through:

  • Geophysical and magnetic survey tools for aquifer identification
  • Field and lab-based aquifer characterization and well testing
  • Numerical modeling of groundwater flow, recharge potential, and salinity intrusion
  • National-scale studies for groundwater quality monitoring and protection

NWRC’s groundwater experts support desert reclamation planning, safe yield assessments, and sustainable abstraction policies across the Nile Valley and Western Desert.

Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)

  • A cross-cutting domain, NWRC applies IWRM principles to guide Egypt’s water governance and development strategies. Key contributions include:

    • Water balance assessments at basin, regional, and national scales
    • Support for multi-sectoral water allocation planning
    • Decision-support systems integrating climate, hydrological, and socio-economic data
    • Capacity building for water policy design, stakeholder coordination, and regulatory frameworks

    NWRC’s IWRM work underpins national water strategies and donor-supported initiatives such as the 2037 National Water Resources Plan.

Our Distinctive Strengths in Water Resources Systems

  • Over 50 years of institutional experience in Egypt’s most complex water systems
  • Unique combination of field stations, labs, and modeling centers under one umbrella
  • Proven track record in supporting national water policies, irrigation reforms, and climate resilience
  • Strong partnerships with international research institutions, regional water authorities, and UN agencies
High angle shot of swirling turquoise ocean waves creating a dynamic seascape pattern.