The second day of the 6th Arab Water Forum, in partnership with the World Utilities Congress, spotlighted the need for innovation in tackling the challenges of water scarcity and climate change. Key discussions highlighted the adoption of resilient and adaptive strategies, with an emphasis on sustainable solutions for advancing a circular water economy.
The day’s events opened with an insightful panel discussion centered around adaptation and resilience to combat water scarcity and the impacts of climate change. Moderated by Prof. Walid Abdelrahman, Vice President of the Arab Water Council, the panel featured industry leaders such as Mr. Andy Biffen, Executive Director of Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC); Eng. Ahmed Al Shamsi, Managing Director & CEO of SWS Holding; Eng. Ali Bin Mohammed Al Abri, Undersecretary at Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources; Eng. Mohamed Bin Seliman AlFahami from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture; and Mr. Yasser Nagi, Group Director of Wilo Middle East and North Africa.
Attention later shifted to the concept of a circular water economy aimed at climate security and sustainable water usage. Led by Dr. Roula Khadra, Science Coordinator at CIHEAM Bari, the session saw contributions from experts such as Mr. Mosaad Daoud, CEO of AgriKEMET; Dr. Aymen Sawassi, Water Management Expert at CIHEAM Bari; Dr. Bilal Derardja, Consultant at CIHEAM Bari; Dr. Bisher Imam, Regional Hydrologist at UNESCO’s Cairo Office; Mr. Abed Ezz El Regal, CEO of ABU QIR Fertilizers; and Eng. Hebah Abbas, Chairwoman of the Kuwait Water Association.
The discussions on Day 2 provided a platform for strategic dialogues and collective action, aiming to address water challenges in the Arab region. The forum continues its mission of promoting sustainable water management and fostering innovative solutions for a more resilient future.