In this Science Talk, Dr. Mohammed Mahmoud, Lead for Middle East Climate and Water Policy at the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH), explores the complex and evolving water security landscape across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Against the backdrop of arid climates, rapid population growth, and intensifying climate pressures, Dr. Mahmoud delves into the challenges facing conventional water resources and highlights innovative pathways being pursued across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. From expanding desalination capacity and advancing wastewater reuse to deploying emerging water technologies and strengthening integrated water management approaches, the talk sheds light on how GCC countries are building resilience against growing risks, including sea level rise, extreme weather events, and groundwater contamination. By examining both shared regional priorities and country-specific strategies, this session highlights the critical role of resilient infrastructure, innovation, and regional collaboration in securing sustainable water futures in an increasingly uncertain world.
You may watch the talk on the UNU-INWEH YouTube channel (no registration required).
Speaker
Dr. Mohammed Mahmoud
Lead, Middle East Climate and Water Policy
