The Arab Region faces a critical freshwater situation, with one of the highest rates of water scarcity, as highlighted by the United Nations. Around 40 percent of the world’s population is affected by water scarcity, while 80 percent of wastewater is discharged untreated into the environment, and water-related disasters account for more than 90 percent of all disasters. In response, governments in the region are increasing their investments in water infrastructure to address this pressing issue.                                                                                                                                   
By: Srijith KN

Over the past three decades, the UAE has experienced a significant decline in its water table, dropping approximately one meter per year. At this rate, the country is projected to deplete its natural freshwater resources within the next 50 years, according to the World Bank.

To meet the growing water demand, the development of desalination projects remains crucial for the social and economic development of the Gulf region. The Middle East and North Africa account for over 75 percent of global desalinated water, with 70 percent located in the GCC countries and 6 percent in Libya and Algeria. The total value of Water Desalination Plant Projects in the MENA region is estimated at USD 39.3 billion.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the UAE has launched the Water Security Strategy 2036, aimed at reducing water resource demand, increasing water productivity, improving water-use efficiency, and enhancing water quality by tackling pollution. Similarly, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is actively focusing on water infrastructure and currently has USD 14 billion worth of water projects under construction.

Treated wastewater, which amounts to around 10 billion m3/year in the Arab region, represents a significant renewable water source. Proper management of treated wastewater is essential for its utilization in agriculture and artificial recharging of groundwater aquifers. Improving the quality of treated wastewater is crucial to overcome the current obstacles limiting its full utilization.

Now, more than ever, it is crucial to foster dialogue among different stakeholders to explore innovative solutions and mobilize public and private actions to improve water resource quality and ensure long-term sustainability.

In line with these efforts, the UN Water Convention, in force since 1996, aims to address global water challenges. Recently, the UN 2023 Water Conference brought together leaders and experts to identify innovative solutions. The UAE has been actively promoting start-ups to develop technologies for water distillation and farming solutions.

Looking ahead, the upcoming COP28, to be hosted by the UAE from November 30 to December 12, calls for global unity and action to address the climate crisis. COP27 saw countries agreeing to develop new funding arrangements to support developing economies disproportionately affected by climate change. Key actions at COP28 include accelerating the energy transition, addressing climate finance issues, prioritizing livelihoods, and ensuring inclusivity in all aspects of the conference.

Building a sustainable future necessitates collective efforts from both the government and private players. The UAE has consistently been at the forefront of driving transformative projects aimed at addressing climate change. Initiatives such as the carbon market, the development program for national adaptation, the national dialogue for climate ambition, and the Climate Ambassadors program demonstrate the country’s commitment to sustainability and fostering climate action. By actively engaging various stakeholders and promoting innovative programs, the UAE is playing a vital role in shaping a greener and more resilient future.

Dr. Eric Topol, Cardiologist, Director of Scripps Research Translational Institute, once said, “what I am most excited about artificial intelligence (AI) is using the future to bring back the past: to restore the care in healthcare. But it will require substantial activism of the medical community to stand up for patients and not allow further upending the erosion of the doctor-patient relationship.”

Such observations eventually invite the judicious attention of the medical community to investigate and resolve the reeling issues in the sector. Whilst endorsing such important observations, The Integrator’s July issue explains several technological achievements in healthcare. As the intelligence of computer programs is used alongside the judgments of doctors and medical professionals, more certain diagnoses and treatments can be offered to patients. Similarly, the prediction of diseases (heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, etc.) helps medical practitioners give effective advice to people. If AI alone manages to create such buzz in the healthcare sector, the combination of disruptive technologies, including extended reality (VR, AR), AI, robotics, digital health, and metaverse in the sector would change our perspective on patient care.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of “eZkrt.com,” a B2C and B2B marketplace for electronics, apparel, and home furnishing. eZkrt.com is a pioneering initiative of One Pi (incorporated under OMA Group Company).

With an extensive range of product categories, eZkrtcom stands out as a unique and innovative marketplace. The platform is also configured to give customers splendid benefits besides offering totally a fresh experience in online purchases. Visit https://eZkrt.com today and experience the new-era shopping!

Thank you for the support and we are excited to receive your feedback on the publication.

Happy reading!

Murali Margassery
Assistant Editor

In simple words, “excellent customer experience” is what it takes to establish an e-commerce business!

Perhaps, it is simple only to define and there is a tough journey awaiting an e-commerce enterprise to become the trusted choice of a customer, who makes an important decision to purchase a product online or repeat the act.

There are a few proven approaches, including dynamic pricing, fast delivery, platform competency, and personalized marketing, that can influence customers’ decisions and help improve the customer experience and, eventually, the market share of the business.

The June issue of The Integrator evaluates the global e-commerce business in length. While the cover story appraises the role that customer experience plays in the success of an e-commerce business, expert interviews and features amplify the voice of tech, payment, logistics, and other service providers. You can read it here: https://issuu.com/varmea/docs/the_integrator_-_june_2022

The Integrator is planning to host “Virtual Roundtable Sessions 2022” on the topic “SECURITY THREAT FOR BFSI SECTOR IN DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ERA.” The sessions will participate information security professionals (i.e., CIOs, CISOs, CSOs) of reputed banks in the Middle East and senior executives/spokespersons from tech enterprises, and security solution service providers to discuss all such matters of security concern in BFSIs.

Simply write to m.muralidharan@omaemirates.com, showing your interest, if you are bearing any of these roles or capacities. We are excited to choose you as a participant and listen to your views on the subject.

Thank you for the support and we are excited to receive your feedback on the publication.

Happy reading!

Murali Margassery
Assistant Editor