The College of Science (CoS) at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) hosted the GCC Dams Experts Meeting on Thursday 26th October, 2017 in the Crescent Building at UAEU. The meeting was attended by Professor Ahmed Murad, Dean of the CoS and a member of UAE Council of Scientists; Professor Abdul Aziz Al Tarbaq from King Saud University, Drs. Ali Al Maktoomi and Anwar Kasyouf from Sultan Qaboos University, and Professor Mohsen Sharif, the Director of UAEU National Water Center.

Professor Murad explained the purpose of the meeting, “this meeting aims to discuss vital issues, to the UAE and other Gulf countries, and to find innovative, sustainable, research-based solutions that can contribute to water security and am increase in groundwater levels. These solutions will help to secure water for future coming generations and contribute to the UAE 2030 vision in terms of water security. UAEU is keen to promote scientific research to help towards sustainable development and the preservation of natural water resources.”

Professor Murad stressed that the college places great importance on issues of national strategic significance and aspires to achieve sustainability through science. He added that building dams helps in increasing groundwater levels. This is done by harvesting water, which is then absorbed into the groundwater.  

The experts in attendance discussed the importance of dams in raising groundwater levels, and how to promote research on this issue.