Arab Water Ministers agreed to develop a joint roadmap to strengthen Arab cooperation toward a secure water future for the region. The roadmap will advance regional priorities in non-conventional water resources, nature-based solutions, capacity building, institutional twinning, financing mechanisms, and inclusive water governance, while addressing key challenges and opportunities.
The agreement was reached during a high-level ministerial session chaired by H.E. Eng. Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen Alfadley, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture. The meeting brought together water ministers and representatives from 11 Arab countries, as well as regional and international partners.
The session formed part of the Seventh Arab Water Forum, which was held during Saudi Water Week in Jeddah from 28 June to 2 July 2026.
The ministers discussed the growing challenges facing Arab countries in managing their water resources amid climate change and increasing water demand driven by population growth and urban expansion. As well as mounting pressures to ensure food and energy security while protecting the environment. They stressed the need to move beyond fragmented approaches and isolated national reforms toward integrated investments and regional partnerships that can accelerate innovative solutions, mobilize adequate financing, and strengthen inclusive governance to achieve a secure and equitable water future across the Arab region.
The ministers also reviewed a range of flagship projects and initiatives across the water sector and related fields, including energy, agriculture, and the environment. Discussions covered non-conventional water resources, digital solutions, technological innovation, institutional and legislative reforms, and national and regional investment priorities.
The session also included brief interventions by regional and international partners on opportunities for regional cooperation and investment to advance innovative solutions to water challenges across the Arab region.