SOMA Newsletter

Welcome to the SOMA MATER weekly newsletter.

At SOMA MATER, we specialize in delivering comprehensive research and advisory services with a focus on Food & Water Security and Net Zero Transition in the MENA Region. In order to support our subscribing clients in navigating these topics and understanding the regional narrative, we produce monthly Food and Water Security and Net Zero Transition Intelligence Reports, along with our in-depth analysis and insights.

This weekly newsletter highlights the top 3 stories from the past week in Food and Water Security and Net Zero transition, along with SOMA MATER's analysis and perspective.

How is genomic research on the Ghaf tree advancing conservation in the UAE?

How is Abu Dhabi's water sector planning to address supply security and infrastructure challenges?

How is Saudi Arabia using bioswales and infrastructure investment to address urban flooding challenges?

Sustainably yours,

The SOMA team

The Ghaf Files: UAE's National Tree Gets Its First Genetic Passport

#FoodandWaterSecurity

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) completed the UAE's first-ever population genomics study of the Ghaf tree (Prosopis cineraria). It reveals genetic insights that will shape the conservation of the UAE's national tree and support the development of climate-resilient ecosystems across the country.

The study analyzed samples from diverse environments across the UAE—from coastal plains to mountain slopes—and uncovered 4 genetically distinct groups. Researchers identified a genetically unique population in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains and Jebel Hafeet National Park Reserve that may represent an evolutionarily distinct lineage. These findings are valuable as they are linked to environmental adaptation and stress response, offering guidance for climate-smart restoration in areas affected by desertification and salinity.

The research has produced more than data alone. EAD and ICBA developed digital tools to help conservationists and decision-makers plan evidence-based conservation strategies. This wealth of genetic information will directly support seed banking, rehabilitation efforts, and national Ghaf Tree planting initiatives, setting a precedent for integrating genomic science into conservation planning.

Sources:

https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/environment/environment-agency-abu-dhabi-and-international-center-for-biosaline-agriculture-complete-uaes-1st-ghaf-tree-population-genomics-study/

https://i0.wp.com/www.explorationjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/UAE-Ghaf-Tree-1.jpg?w=1170&ssl=1

Making Waves: Abu Dhabi's 10-Year Plan to Keep the Taps Running

#FoodandWaterSecurity

The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) has launched its Integrated Water Sector Strategy, charting a path to secure its water resources for decades. Backed by directives from His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and aligned with the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, the plan prioritizes supply security, groundwater preservation, and infrastructure modernization through advanced technologies and AI.

The strategy sets ambitious targets: reducing total water production costs, cutting network losses by 40% by 2035, and improving demand efficiency by 32% by 2030. To achieve this, it is rolling out a 10-year implementation plan built around 5 core programs: diversifying agricultural water sources, upgrading networks in 28 areas, installing smart monitoring systems, stimulating better consumption practices, and improving efficiency.

Central to the effort is a push for innovation: the Department is calling on researchers and forward-thinking minds to submit proposals for water desalination and reuse projects. Major initiatives include capturing 100 million cubic meters of rainwater annually and expanding recycled water use — designed to future-proof the emirate's water network as it scales to meet rapid growth.

Sources:

https://www.mediaoffice.abudhabi/en/energy/department-of-energy-launches-integrated-water-strategy-to-reinforce-sustainability-of-water-resources-across-the-emirate/

Bioswales to the Rescue: Saudi's Solution to Urban Floods

#FoodandWaterSecurity

During fall and winter, parts of Saudi Arabia experience heavy rainfall that overwhelms drainage systems. The resulting floods have caused fatalities and major damage, with Jeddah serving as a prominent example. Urban planning mistakes—such as allowing construction in natural flood valleys—created structural vulnerabilities that became apparent during severe rain events.

The issue is compounded by fragmented infrastructure development. Stormwater drainage, sanitation, roads, and utilities were not built in coordination, leaving cities exposed to storms. A 2019 King Saud University report reinforced that rapid urbanization had expanded into natural waterways, blocking runoff and worsening flash floods. In response, the government awarded contracts totaling around $238.3 million in 2014 for flood protection and drainage projects in areas like Medina province and Al-Khobar.

Since Vision 2030 launched, Saudi Arabia has been investing in infrastructure to address these gaps. One increasingly popular nature-based solution implemented is bioswales—vegetated channels that capture, filter, and redirect stormwater while allowing gradual soil infiltration. These systems slow runoff, reduce surface flooding, and ease pressure on drainage networks during peak storm events. To work effectively in Saudi’s soil conditions, bioswales often use engineered soil layers, gravel bases, under-drain systems, and drought-tolerant, native vegetation that minimizes irrigation needs.

Sources:

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2624270/amp

https://www.meed.com/saudi-arabia-awards-more-flood-protection-deals/#:~:text=13 August 2014 By Andrew,Khobar in the Eastern Province.