The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region faces unprecedented water scarcity, driven by arid
conditions, limited freshwater resources, and rising demand due to growing populations. This review examines the
potential of unconventional water resources including treated wastewater, agricultural drainage water, and desalination
as sustainable solutions to mitigate water stress in Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Lebanon, and Jordan. With per capita water
availability in many MENA nations expected to drop below 500 m³/year by 2030 and agriculture accounting for over
80% of water use, the region’s food security and economic stability are at risk. Climate change further exacerbates these
challenges through prolonged droughts and unpredictable rainfall. This paper analyzes country-specific approaches, such
as Egypt’s large-scale drainage water reuse, Morocco’s climate adaptation strategies, Tunisia’s policy-driven water
management, and the acute water crises in Lebanon, and Jordan. Key findings emphasize the importance of integrated
water resource management, advanced treatment technologies, and cross-border collaboration to optimize unconventional
water use. By evaluating current practices and future opportunities, this study highlights how MENA countries can
enhance water security, sustain agricultural output, and reduce the socio-economic impacts of water scarcity in an
increasingly climate-vulnerable region. |
