Examining the impact of water scarcity on agricultural output in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region

Abstract This research paper examines the impact of water scarcity on agricultural output in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. It highlights the increasing global water scarcity and its consequences, including the prevalence of water‐stressed areas and the adverse effects on human health and economic sectors. The paper focuses on the GCC region, known for its water scarcity and desertification, exacerbated by climate change and pollution. The study aims to investigate the relationship between water stress levels and agricultural productivity, evaluating the effects of freshwater withdrawals, fertilizer consumption, and agricultural methane emissions on crop production. Additionally, it explores the connection between agricultural output and net national income per capita. By addressing these research questions, the study contributes to the understanding of agricultural water scarcity and its implications for global food security and sustainability. The paper utilizes data from the World Bank to analyze crop production in the GCC countries from 2001 to 2020, shedding light on the influence of water scarcity on agricultural landscapes. The research highlights the efforts made by GCC countries to enhance food security, including strategic investments in agricultural lands and bilateral agreements. It also discusses the challenges faced by specific countries within the region, such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Kuwait, in terms of agricultural production and water constraints. Overall, the paper provides insights into the complexities of agricultural water scarcity and its effects on the GCC region, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions to ensure food security and economic stability.