This progress report published by ESCWA in 2024 reveals mixed progress toward SDG 6.5.1. While the regional average implementation stands at 56% — close to the global 57% — sharp inequalities persist. Gulf countries are near target levels, but least developed and conflict-affected states remain far behind.
Progress Slows, Financing Lags
Since 2020, momentum has weakened. The region struggles most with financing, showing the lowest performance across the four key areas: enabling environment, institutions, management tools, and funding. Without urgent action, many countries will miss the 2030 goal.
The Path Forward
The report urges stronger political will, climate-linked financing, and local-to-regional coordination. Key recommendations include:
Expanding stakeholder participation
Using tools like green bonds and debt swaps
Investing in desalination and wastewater reuse
Achieving sustainable water management in the Arab world is still possible — but the clock is ticking.
