The continuing increase in demand for fresh water resources has led to recognition of the need for an integrated approach to water management, purification and conservation. This approach involves not only research and technical innovation but also education and training. Following a brief review of this concept, research activities, facilities and postgraduate programs in desalination and water resources in Oman are discussed as part of a capacity building strategy. Current collaborative research projects, for example, include investigation of membrane, and solar driven processes. The establishment of a new university desalination research facility is presented. An undergraduate student working experience program, postgraduate programs, and short courses for industry are outlined. Regional and international cooperation in desalination research are presented as well as areas for possible future collaboration.