Smart Build signs MoU with Lebanese firm NEFER in Doha 

Bangladesh-based technology and sustainability company Smart Build has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with NEFER, a Lebanese textile manufacturer with French business links, at the World Investment Forum 2026 in Doha.

NEFER was represented by Nisrine El Awar, project owner of the Revival Silk Heritage initiative and a delegate associated with ET Cernay and the MEDEF delegation. 

The MoU establishes a framework for technical and strategic cooperation in intelligent water management, sustainable industrial processes, resource efficiency and technology integration, says a press release. 

Beyond the agreement, Smart Build is exploring opportunities to deploy its PureFlow AI-powered Water Intelligence platform in nearly 20 markets across the Middle East, Africa and Europe.

The ninth World Investment Forum, organised by United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in partnership with the State of Qatar, was held from October 25 to 27. Smart Build said its representatives met government officials and ministerial delegations to discuss the role of artificial intelligence in water security, wastewater management and energy efficiency.

Md. Shahab Uddin Riyad, chief sustainability officer of Smart Build, said the forum highlighted how water management is becoming a strategic priority for governments. “It is directly connected to a country's economic development, public health, energy security, industrial productivity, sustainability and the stability of its entire environmental ecosystem,” he said.

Smart Build initially developed its technology for industrial wastewater management. Shafkat Alam, chief technology officer of Smart Build, said PureFlow integrates IoT sensors, AI, real-time analytics, predictive monitoring and automation. The platform was designed for a broader range of applications, including municipal water supply, irrigation, desalination and water reuse. Alam said Smart Build would continue discussions with NEFER and other international partners on pilot projects, technology integration, investment and country-specific cooperation.