Nuclear Desalination: A Sustainable Solution For Water Security In The Arab Region
By Joelle Matta, IAEA Office of Public Information and Communication
Nuclear desalination is offering countries in the Arab region and beyond a clean alternative to energy-hungry traditional desalination.
Freshwater scarcity is a persistent challenge across the globe, especially in the Arab region where limited natural water resources and rapid population growth are placing increasing strain on supply. For decades, countries in the region have relied on traditional desalination, which removes salt from seawater but depends heavily on fossil fuels. With growing energy demands and climate change concerns, many countries are now exploring the cleaner alternative.
By using nuclear energy to power the desalination process, countries can reduce greenhouse gas emissions while producing a steady supply of fresh water.
With the support of the IAEA, several Arab countries are assessing the feasibility of nuclear desalination through technical studies, training programmes and regional cooperation. As interest in the technology grows, it is increasingly seen not only as a practical solution, but also as part of a broader strategy to enhance water security amid complex development and environmental challenges.
How the IAEA Supports Nuclear Desalination in the Arab Region
The IAEA has been working with Arab countries for almost 30 years to support existing initiatives focused on nuclear desalination. Through feasibility studies, training programmes and research, the IAEA helps countries explore how nuclear energy can support freshwater production. Specialized tools like DEEP (the Desalination Economic Evaluation Program) enable decision-makers to compare costs and efficiency across different technologies.
As part of this ongoing support, the IAEA hosted a technical meeting on nuclear ‘cogeneration applications’ in April 2025, bringing together experts from around the world, including participants from Egypt, Jordan and Kuwait. The meeting reflects the growing interest in the Arab region in advancing non-electric applications of nuclear energy, such as desalination.
Unlike conventional desalination, nuclear desalination uses reactor-generated heat and electricity to separate salt from seawater, reducing carbon emissions while providing a stable, long term water source.
