Coastal Development and Climate Risk Reduction in the Persian/Arabian Gulf: The case of Qatar

Abstract

limate change consideration in coastal developments in the GCC regions are neither adequately studied nor incorporated into specific policies. The rapid pace of coastal development seeks to accommodate short-term to mid-term growth needs, while climate vulnerability issues are rarely addressed on project-based terms. Climate policies are seen as an overarching environmental issue that can be addressed in a future phase of “post-growth.” The scattered national-level policy initiatives toward climate risk reduction need to evolve into a regional approach encompassing all Persian/Arabian Gulf countries. The waters of the Gulf can be considered a common resource vulnerable to degradation, increased salinity, and the loss of marine ecosystems. The example of the State of Qatar shows that economic transformation toward a knowledge-based economic model can help mobilize technological options to increase climate resilience and develop effective institutional arrangements. In light of recent international climate agreements and increasing evidence of climate impacts, the need and urgency for actions are increasing. These may lead to more targeted development policies for reducing climate-related risks.