January 2017 marked a significant milestone in climate change research for the Arab region with the publication of the Arab Climate Change Assessment Report.  This report was prepared within the framework of RICCAR: Regional Initiative for the Assessment of Climate Change Impacts on Water Resources and Socio-Economic Vulnerability in the Arab Region; a collaborative partnership involving 11 organizations, including various UN agencies, GIZ, and the FAO.  

Spearheaded by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and funded by the Swedish Government, the report provides a comprehensive understanding of how climate change will impact the Arab region's freshwater resources up to the end of the 21st century.

Our expert, Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj, participated as a contributing expert and reviewer in the preparation of this report.

The Arab Climate Change Assessment Report stands out as the first regional assessment to analyze the impact of climate change on water resources across the Arab region as a unified geospatial entity. The report achieves this through a series of regional climate and hydrological modelling projections extending to the year 2100. It also integrates these impacts in relation to the socio-economic and environmental vulnerability of the Arab states.

One of the key achievements of the report is its detailed examination of case studies focusing on flood frequency, droughts, crop productivity, and human health. These studies provide critical insights into the varied challenges faced by the region.

The report’s findings have played a vital role in informing policy dialogue on climate change at the regional level. It has enhanced the capacity of governments, experts, and civil society organizations in the Arab region to utilize climate science in decision-making. This was achieved through continuous engagement in intergovernmental sessions, expert groups, consultative forums, workshops, and high-level events throughout the preparation process.

In conclusion, the Arab Climate Change Assessment Report paints a concerning yet insightful picture. The region is poised to experience rising temperatures and significant impacts on its freshwater resources throughout this century. These changes are expected to vary in intensity across different Arab states, ultimately affecting their socio-economic and environmental vulnerability. This report not only raises awareness but also calls for concerted efforts and informed strategies to address the impending challenges posed by climate change in the Arab region.