Intensive groundwater use in the Middle East and North Africa

Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is home to 6% of the world’s population and have some 1.4% of the world’s water resources. The freshwater availability per capita in 50% of MENA countries is below 500 m 3 /yr. Water shortages in the region are also compounded by water quality degradation. Groundwater is the main source of water in 54% of MENA countries. High water stresses are met with groundwater over-abstraction, which is likely to exacerbate with time. This is clearly manifested by the presented examples of intensive groundwater use. Analysis of the water situation suggests that the fragmented supply oriented approach to water development must give way to integrated water resources management. Challenges and opportunities for integrated water resources management in MENA are also discussed in this chapter.