Imagine a country without a single flowing river. This is the reality for 18 nations worldwide, yet they not only survive but flourish. From the arid Arabian Peninsula to tiny island states, these countries demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation in securing essential water supplies.
These riverless nations, predominantly found in the Middle East and Oceania, depend on a diverse range of alternative water sources. Technological advancements like large-scale desalination plants are crucial, converting seawater into potable water for millions. Groundwater reserves, though often limited, are carefully managed. Some nations even resort to importing water or implementing sophisticated rainwater harvesting systems.
The Middle East is home to many of these water-scarce countries. Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Yemen, and Bahrain face extreme aridity. While ancient rivers once carved through the Arabian landscape, today, these nations are global leaders in desalination technology. Oman and the UAE also utilize temporary ‘wadis,’ dry riverbeds that fill only after rare, intense rainfall.
Africa’s riverless nations include Libya and Djibouti, grappling with desert climates. In Europe, the small territories of Malta, Monaco, and Vatican City also lack permanent rivers, relying on groundwater and meticulously maintained storage facilities.
Island nations in the Caribbean and Pacific, such as The Bahamas, Maldives, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Tonga, and Tuvalu, face unique challenges. Many depend on collecting precious rainwater and tap into limited underground aquifers. However, rising sea levels and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources present growing threats, especially for low-lying nations like the Maldives.
Despite these environmental hurdles, human ingenuity has paved the way for sustained urban growth and agriculture. Cities like Riyadh, Dubai, and Doha are testaments to effective water management strategies and advanced technology. These nations prove that with smart planning and innovative solutions, survival and prosperity are achievable, even without natural waterways.