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The critical need for successful artificial intelligence (AI) integration to tackle challenges related to water resource management in the region was highlighted during a major forum.
Gulf Water Science and Technology Association (WSTA) vice-president Dr Waleed Zubari said AI integration could be achieved by combining cutting-edge technological solutions with sustainable investments in data governance.
The workshop on Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Water Resources Management in the GCC Countries was organised by the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research in partnership with WSTA and the GCC General Secretariat.
The event brought together international and regional experts to explore the potential of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies and advanced AI in the water sector, amid pressing challenges such as severe water scarcity, climate change, and rising water demand. “It is important to develop AI capabilities, education and awareness to address water resource challenge in the GCC,” Dr Zubari said at the event.
“Successful technological transformation hinges on human capital,” he added, stressing the need to address ethical considerations and promote the responsible use of AI.
According to Dr Zubari, integrating AI into water resource management is no longer a future prospect, but an urgent necessity for the GCC.
“Through strategic application within a framework of robust governance, resilient infrastructure, sustainable investments in human capital, and regional collaboration, the region can transform its water challenges into a model of sustainable and intelligent water management,” he said.
The workshop also addressed major challenges related to climate change and increasing water consumption. Recommendations included calls for data governance, enhancing national readiness, and adopting emerging technologies to tackle water-related issues in the GCC.
Special attention was given to data integrity, interoperability, cybersecurity and clear governance frameworks as vital enablers for the reliable and sustainable deployment of AI.
Participants recommended the adoption of AI applications across the water sector and integration of water, energy, food, and ecosystems management. This integration leverages the transformative potential of emerging technologies and AI to enhance the entire water value chain, while effectively managing the critical linkages between these sectors, particularly given that agriculture remains the largest water consumer in the region.
Dr Zubari stated that participants will look to build on the outcomes of the workshop and pursue further initiatives to advance the application of emerging technologies and AI in the water sector across the GCC.
“This includes developing a policy brief on AI applications in water management, aimed at raising awareness among policymakers and water sector professionals,” he said.
“The brief will include a comprehensive checklist of emerging technologies and AI initiatives within the region’s water sector, and may extend to neighbouring Arab countries.
“It will also explore opportunities to support ongoing and new initiatives that promote AI adoption in the water sector.”
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