The GCC faces extreme freshwater scarcity, with most of the region covered by desert and lacking natural water sources. To sustain growing populations and major cities, governments began large‑scale seawater desalination in the early 20th century and have continued expanding these systems. This effort is now guided by the GCC Unified Water Strategy (2016–2035), which drives long‑term planning and regional cooperation to secure reliable drinking water. The dependence on desalination makes water and wastewater systems critical infrastructure whose protection is essential for the stability and survival of millions across GCC nations.

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