In this review, polymeric membrane fabrication techniques for pressure driven membrane processes and membrane distillation are discussed. The fabrication technique, properties of the fabricated membranes and performance in water desalination are related. Important parameters which affect the membrane performance such as crystallinity of the membrane based polymer, porous structure, hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity, membrane charge and surface roughness are analyzed. Despite the fact that extensive knowledge exist on how to 'tailor' membrane pore structure including its surface properties and cross-section morphology by selection of appropriate fabrication methods, there is still a challenge to produce reliable membranes with anti-fouling properties, chemical resistance, high mechanical strength with high flux and selectivity. To ensure progress in membrane performance, further improvements are needed of common membrane fabrication techniques such as phase inversion and interfacial polymerization. At the same time, the potential of novel fabrication techniques such as electrospinning and track-etching needs to be assessed. A comprehensive understanding between structure-surface properties and performance is a key for further development and progress in membrane technology for water desalination. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.