UNDP Advances Renewable Energy-Powered Desalination to Address Yemen’s Water Crisis

With Yemen facing one of the world’s most severe water crises, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is spearheading efforts to implement long-term, energy-driven solutions to ensure sustainable access to clean water. As groundwater depletion accelerates and urban water infrastructure deteriorates, desalination powered by renewable energy has emerged as a key strategy for addressing Yemen’s chronic water scarcity.

Groundwater, the country’s primary drinking water source, is being depleted at an alarming rate. In Aden, aquifers are expected to run dry this year, while outdated infrastructure results in the loss of over 40% of the available water supply. Despite these challenges, Yemen’s geographical position along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, coupled with growing solar energy investments—including two UAE-funded solar stations providing 120 MW in Aden—presents an opportunity for large-scale, eco-friendly desalination.

UNDP’s Renewable Energy-Powered Desalination Initiatives

UNDP is leading efforts to integrate desalination with renewable energy solutions, laying the groundwork for sustainable water management. The organization has developed a comprehensive blueprint for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) and Solid Waste Management in Aden, assessing the feasibility of solar- and wind-powered desalination plants. Additionally, UNDP has conducted technical and economic studies on desalination potential and engaged the private sector to explore investment opportunities in water infrastructure.

Beyond infrastructure projects, UNDP is supporting the Government of Yemen in updating the National Water Sector Strategy and Investment Program to ensure a sustainable, long-term approach to water governance. The program aims to align water security with broader national development goals, focusing on institutional strengthening, environmental sustainability, and private-sector participation.

Yemen’s Presence at the MENA Desalination Conference

At the sixth Middle East and North Africa Desalination Conference in Abu Dhabi (February 26–27, 2025), UNDP Yemen played a key role in regional discussions on sustainable water solutions. As a supporting partner, UNDP joined global experts and industry leaders to explore innovative desalination technologies tailored for climate-vulnerable regions.

Bouran Mohammed, Water Resources Management Specialist at UNDP Yemen, delivered a country briefing emphasizing the need for renewable-powered desalination and institutional resilience. Technical panel discussions focused on the latest advancements in desalination technology, particularly within fragile water-scarce environments like Yemen.

UNDP’s participation in global water dialogues reinforces Yemen’s commitment to long-term, energy-driven solutions, positioning renewable desalination as a cornerstone of the country’s water security strategy.