The Domestic Water Sector in Qatar

Abstract

Qatar is considered one of the most highly water stressed countries in the world, with little in the way of natural water resources. It is almost entirely reliant on the desalination of seawater to provide for municipal and industrial needs, while the growing agricultural sector has historically been dependent upon the desalination of brackish groundwater. This chapter outlines the sustainability initiatives, national strategies, policy instruments, and drivers for efficiency improvements in the water sector in Qatar. The Qatar National Vision 2030 has a particular focus on reducing consumption, improving conservation, and on the circular water economy, highlighting the value of research, development, and innovation (RDI) in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Significant investment has taken place toward developing a sustainable water industry, where a transition toward renewable energy resources can support desalination, wastewater treatment, and reuse policies for a sustainable Qatar.