Why have many countries in Southwest Asia had to develop new technologies such as desalination in order to access fresh water?

Many countries in Southwest Asia, such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, have limited access to freshwater sources due to their arid climates and lack of natural water resources. In order to meet the growing demand for water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use, these countries have had to develop new technologies such as desalination to obtain freshwater from seawater or brackish groundwater. Desalination plants can help these countries secure a sustainable and reliable source of fresh water, reducing their dependence on limited natural resources and reducing the strain on existing water sources. Additionally, as populations continue to grow and climate change exacerbates water scarcity in the region, investing in technologies like desalination becomes increasingly important for ensuring water security.