Determination of irrigation requirement for tomato using FAO-CROPWAT model in the Arid Region

Abstract

Food security presents a significant challenge in arid regions, exacerbated by water scarcity due to climate change. Tomato is one of the top agricultural crops around the world, in which it is needed to investigate its irrigation water requirements for each region, especially in the arid regions. This work mainly aims to estimate the irrigation water requirements and irrigation schedules for cultivating tomato in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), United Arab Emirates (UAE). This would be done by utilizing the FAO-CROPWAT 8.0 Model and CLIMWAT 2.0. The findings of this research support efficient water use by utilizing the advanced modeling tools. The outcomes will inform and enhance irrigation water management practices for farmers, farm owners, and policymakers, contributing significantly to sustainable development goals and the resilience of agricultural systems in water-limited environments.