The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the few countries in the world without permanent rivers or natural lakes, yet it successfully supplies clean water to around 9.5 million residents by relying on advanced infrastructure and strategic water management. Its arid desert climate and minimal rainfall mean the nation must turn to innovative solutions to meet daily demand.

At the heart of the UAE’s water system are desalination plants that convert seawater into potable water using technologies such as reverse osmosis and distillation. Nearly 70 major desalination facilities operate across the federation, fulfilling a significant portion of the country’s water requirements and making the UAE a leading producer of desalinated water globally.

In addition to desalination, the UAE taps groundwater reserves and places growing emphasis on treated wastewater reuse for irrigation, landscaping and industrial use — part of a broader strategy to lessen pressure on freshwater supplies. Water is also stored in extensive reservoirs to ensure reliability during peak demand or emergencies.

Looking ahead, the Water Security Strategy 2036 aims to increase efficiency, expand reuse to around 95 per cent, and reduce overall water demand through conservation and technological upgrades. The UAE’s model — blending cutting-edge technology with long-term planning — offers a blueprint for water-scarce regions worldwide striving to turn scarcity into sustainability.