Kuwait Runs on Desalinated Water Amid Extreme Scarcity
January 11, 2026
Kuwait has no rivers, lakes, or renewable freshwater sources. The country’s desert landscape and low rainfall create one of the world’s most water-scarce environments. To survive, Kuwait relies almost entirely on seawater desalination, which produces over 90% of its drinking water. This technology started in 1953 and now includes large coastal plants like Az-Zour North, producing 480,000 cubic meters daily. Kuwait also treats wastewater for farming and landscaping to save its precious desalinated water. Despite this high-tech solution, Kuwait faces challenges from energy costs and climate change risks. The government uses smart meters, promotes water saving, and invests in solar-powered desalination to maintain supply. Kuwait’s success shows how engineering can beat tough nature but also highlights the huge costs and risks of depending on energy-heavy water production. As it pushes to reduce oil reliance, Kuwait must balance water needs with environmental goals.
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Tags:
Kuwait
Water Scarcity
Desalination
Freshwater
Climate change
Water management
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