A recent report has named the world’s top 10 most drought-affected countries, and all of them are Muslim-majority nations. Egypt leads the list with just 18 millimeters of average annual rainfall, highlighting the severe water challenges these areas face amid rising climate change impacts in 2025.
This revelation comes from global climate data and reports released this year, showing how low precipitation levels threaten millions in these regions. Experts point to factors like desert climates, high temperatures, and changing weather patterns as key reasons behind the ongoing crises.
Why These Nations Face Extreme Drought
Many of these countries sit in arid zones near the Sahara Desert or the Arabian Peninsula. This location leads to long dry spells and minimal rain throughout the year.
In 2025, climate reports note that global warming has made droughts more frequent and intense. For instance, East Africa and the Middle East have seen rainfall drop by up to 20 percent in some areas compared to past decades.
Water scarcity affects daily life, from farming to drinking supplies. Nations like Egypt rely heavily on rivers such as the Nile, but low rain adds pressure on these resources.
Experts say proactive measures, like better water management, could help. Yet, without global action on climate change, the situation may worsen.
Egypt Tops the List as Driest Nation
Egypt stands out as the most drought-hit country, with average yearly rainfall at only 18 millimeters. Most of this falls in coastal areas, leaving the vast desert interior bone dry.
The Nile River provides much of the water, but droughts strain it further. In 2025, officials reported crop losses and water rationing in rural spots.
This low rainfall ties to Egypt’s position in North Africa, where subtropical high pressure systems block moisture. Recent studies show that climate shifts could reduce Nile flow by 10 to 15 percent by 2030.
Residents in cities like Cairo face higher water costs and conservation rules. International aid has stepped in with desalination projects to ease the burden.
Farmers adapt by using drip irrigation, but many still struggle. The government pushes for sustainable practices to combat the dry conditions.
Other Top Nations and Their Rainfall Struggles
Libya ranks second with 56 millimeters of annual rain. Its vast deserts see little moisture, leading to reliance on underground aquifers that are depleting fast.
Saudi Arabia comes third at 59 millimeters. Despite oil wealth, the kingdom invests billions in water tech, like cloud seeding, to boost rain.
Qatar gets 74 millimeters, while the UAE sees 78 millimeters. Both use advanced desalination to meet needs.
Bahrain records 83 millimeters, Algeria 89 millimeters, and Mauritania 92 millimeters. These figures show a pattern of aridity across the region.
Jordan has 111 millimeters, and Kuwait 121 millimeters. Even with slightly more rain, flash floods can occur during rare heavy downpours.
| Rank | Country | Average Annual Rainfall (mm) | Key Challenge |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Egypt | 18 | Nile dependency |
| 2 | Libya | 56 | Aquifer depletion |
| 3 | Saudi Arabia | 59 | Desert expansion |
| 4 | Qatar | 74 | High evaporation |
| 5 | UAE | 78 | Urban water demand |
| 6 | Bahrain | 83 | Limited groundwater |
| 7 | Algeria | 89 | Sahara influence |
| 8 | Mauritania | 92 | Nomadic impacts |
| 9 | Jordan | 111 | Flash flood risks |
| 10 | Kuwait | 121 | Oil field pollution |
Impacts on People and Economies
Droughts hit hard on agriculture, which employs many in these nations. Crop failures lead to food shortages and higher prices.
In Egypt, wheat production dropped 15 percent this year due to dry conditions. Similar issues plague Libya and Saudi Arabia, forcing imports.
Millions face displacement. Somalia, though not in the top 10, shows how drought fuels migration in Muslim-majority areas.
Economies suffer too. Water shortages slow industries like manufacturing and tourism. Reports estimate billions in losses across the region in 2025.
Health risks rise with poor water quality. Diseases spread in dry, dusty environments, affecting vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
Global Trends and Future Outlook
Worldwide, droughts are worsening. A 2025 OECD report warns of more frequent dry spells due to climate change.
Muslim-majority nations in Africa and the Middle East bear the brunt. Rising temperatures evaporate what little rain falls.
International efforts include UN programs for drought resilience. Countries share tech for better forecasting and water storage.
Some positive steps show promise. Saudi Arabia’s cloud seeding increased rain by 10 percent in trials this year.
Yet, experts stress the need for emission cuts. Without them, projections for 2030 predict even lower rainfall in these areas.
- Build rainwater harvesting systems to capture rare showers.
- Plant drought-resistant crops to maintain food security.
- Support global climate pacts for long-term relief.
What Can Be Done to Fight Back
Governments invest in solutions like solar-powered desalination. Egypt plans to expand these plants along its coast.
Community programs teach water-saving techniques. In Jordan, schools educate kids on conservation.
International aid funds irrigation projects. The World Bank supports efforts in Mauritania and Algeria.
Innovation plays a role. Apps now track water use, helping farmers plan better.
Collaboration across borders is key. Sharing river resources, like the Nile, requires fair agreements.
Share your thoughts on how to tackle global droughts. Comment below or spread this article to raise awareness.
