Water sector capacity building is conceived as a strategic element in sustainable water development and management. Capacity building consists of three basic elements: (1) an enabling environment with appropriate policy and legal framework, (2) an institutional development along with community participation, and (3) human resources development. This paper aims to assess the level of capacity building in water desalination in Jordan. It addresses the existing legal, institutional, research, and technical status with respect to water desalination in Jordan. A conceptual framework for viewing the water issues in Jordan is presented. This model consists of three components, namely, needs, technology, and institutions. A comprehensive review of Jordan's needs in terms of research, information and training with respect to desalination are presented. Recommendations are outlined.