This review article discusses the development and challenges of ultrathin polyamide membranes for water and energy applications. These membranes are highly efficient for water purification, desalination, and separation of ions and molecules. The article highlights various strategies for creating ultrathin polyamide membranes, including interfacial polymerization, layer-by-layer assembly, spin-coating, electrospray, inkjet printing, and dual-layer slot coating. These methods allow for precise control over membrane thickness, surface morphology, and separation performance. However, the article also identifies limitations, such as the impact of the substrate on membrane performance and the difficulty of creating defect-free ultrathin layers. The review emphasizes the need for further research to overcome these challenges and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of ultrathin polyamide membranes in water treatment and energy applications. The article concludes with a discussion of future perspectives, including the potential of novel membrane materials like aquaporins, aligned carbon nanotubes, and graphene-based membranes.This review article discusses the development and challenges of ultrathin polyamide membranes for water and energy applications. These membranes are highly efficient for water purification, desalination, and separation of ions and molecules. The article highlights various strategies for creating ultrathin polyamide membranes, including interfacial polymerization, layer-by-layer assembly, spin-coating, electrospray, inkjet printing, and dual-layer slot coating. These methods allow for precise control over membrane thickness, surface morphology, and separation performance. However, the article also identifies limitations, such as the impact of the substrate on membrane performance and the difficulty of creating defect-free ultrathin layers. The review emphasizes the need for further research to overcome these challenges and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of ultrathin polyamide membranes in water treatment and energy applications. The article concludes with a discussion of future perspectives, including the potential of novel membrane materials like aquaporins, aligned carbon nanotubes, and graphene-based membranes.