This study evaluates the economic viability of lining irrigation canals in Upper Egypt, focusing on the El-Sont Canal network as a case study. Using a benefit-cost analysis (BCA), the research assesses the financial feasibility of canal lining by comparing the costs of implementation with the anticipated benefits, including water savings, reduced maintenance, and increased agricultural productivity. The estimated cost of lining the El-Sont Canal network is approximately $34.193 million, with annual benefits ranging from $5.451 million to $7.515 million. The benefit-cost ratio (BCR) exceeds 1.0, ranging from 1.99 to 4.02, indicating strong economic viability. Additionally, the cost recovery period is estimated at 4.5–6.3 years, making the project a sustainable investment. Compared to alternative water resource solutions such as desalination and wastewater reuse, canal lining proves to be the most cost-effective and permanent solution for water conservation in the region. While canal lining is cost-effective, potential trade-offs include impacts on groundwater recharge and the equitable distribution of water savings among different farming communities. The findings underscore the importance of canal lining as a strategic intervention for sustainable water management in Upper Egypt, aligning with national agricultural development goals and addressing water scarcity challenges under changing climatic conditions
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