In this manuscript, we are using sulfonated poly (ethersulfone) (SPES) based cation-exchange membrane (CEM) and polyvinyl alcohol-4-vinylpyridine (4-VP) based cross-linked based anion-exchange membrane (AEM) for water desalination by electrodialysis (ED). These membranes were characterized for their electrochemical and physicochemical properties such as membrane conductivity, counter-ion transport number, ion-exchange capacity and water content. Prepared ion-exchange membranes (IEMs) showed good stabilities under severe conditions such as high temperature and strong oxidizing conditions. ED experiments in recirculation mode of operation were performed for water desalination. Energy consumption and current efficiency values confirmed suitability of these IEMs for desalination of water by ED. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.