5 World’s Most Water-Stressed Countries in 2040

3. Qatar

WRI Score: 5.00

Qatar is one of the most water-stressed countries in the world and is set to retain this status in 2040 as well. Majority of the water available in Qatar comes from desalination plants, in which seawater is treated to remove salt and other impurities. Agriculture consumes about a thirds of the country’s water but only contributes 0.1% to Qatar’s GDP. Increasing reliance on imports for agricultural items can help ease the pressure on the kingdom’s already limited water resources. About 450 liters of water is used per capita in Qatar.