Digital solutions for sustainable water management in MENA

Elsevier, Digital Technologies for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems: Digital solutions for sustainable water management in MENA  Systems 2026, Pages 129-154.
Authors: 
Maha Al-Zu'bi, Muhammad Khalifa, Youssef Brouziyne

This chapter examines the role of digital tools in addressing water scarcity challenges in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a particular focus on agriculture. With climate change, population growth, and rising agricultural demands, efficient water management and irrigation are critical. The chapter examines technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, remote sensing (RS), geographic information systems (GIS), and advanced data analytics in optimizing water usage. Case studies from Jordan, Egypt, Sudan, Morocco, and Syria illustrate how these tools enhance water conservation, crop yields, and reduce costs and analysis time. The chapter also discusses barriers to adoption, such as technological, economic, and social factors, and proposes strategies to overcome them. Ultimately, it highlights the transformative potential of digital solutions for sustainable water management in the MENA region.