Abstract Desalination has become one of the principal sources of fresh water in arid and semi-arid zones. In Egypt, desalination finds wider applications in different production sectors. Different types of desalting technologies are currently in use. The present paper outlines the problems encountered by the consumers when using a particular technology and the procedures followed to deal with those problems. Guidlines for proper selection of the desalting technology are presented which may apply to similar developing countries. Methods to reduce desalination costs through scientific management and proper operating cycles are discussed. Other alternatives to provide fresh water for a specific location in West Egyptian desert have been presented associated with the comparative economics. Guidlines for water planning have been concluded