Climate Adaptation Strategies and Policy Frameworks in the Arabian Peninsula

Per capita emissions in most countries within the Arabian Peninsula (AP) are relatively higher than in other parts of the world due to their high dependence on fossil fuels across various sectors. These AP countries are also under significant climate risks due to their semi to hyper-arid climate, water scarcity, climate-sensitive agriculture, inadequate drainage networks for floodwater runoff and concentrated economic activities along coastlines. So, it is crucial for the countries within the AP to develop and implement appropriate policies to address climate impacts and reduce emissions. This study explores both mitigation and adaptation policy initiatives taken by the governments of each of the AP countries at the local, regional and international levels to tackle climate change in this region. In addition, this study examines regional and international collaborations and agreements related to climate change undertaken by the AP countries. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the policy initiatives already implemented by the governments of the AP countries using four indicators i.e. emissions intensity, energy intensity, per capita energy consumption and percentage of renewables in the electricity mix. Findings show that progress so far has been inadequate compared to the targets set by each of the AP countries, and there is an urgent need for large-scale deployment of renewables and other mitigation measures to achieve climate targets. The findings of this study are likely to help policymakers and the public understand the urgency of implementing various proposed climate actions and inform them about the efforts being made by the countries within the AP to reduce emissions and address climate impacts across various sectors.