Review and assessment of water resources in Gulf cooperation council countries

The water resources of the Gulf Cooperating Council (GCC) countries are considered to be of equal importance to their oil resources. This paper takes a brief look at the current situation concerning the water‐related problems encountered by the GCC countries, the availability and use of water in these countries and then presents estimates of future requirements. In conclusion, a number of suggestions are proposed for the GCC countries which will affect water management actions that attempt to balance water availability and demand. These actions range from improving institutional arrangements, training and data management to the development of a cooperative long‐term water management plan.