A KAUST-led study found that the El Niño–Southern Oscillation affects Red Sea salinity through changes in winds, water inflow, and evaporation. Understanding these links may support research on the sea and efforts to protect coral reefs.
Swiss glaciers lost more than 5% of their ice in 2026, and nearly a fifth over five years. Researchers link the loss to a low-snow winter and hot, dry conditions.
Researchers at Sultan Qaboos University tested whether water harvested from the air can support hydroponic farming with solar energy. The trial greenhouse produced stronger tomato plants and larger lettuce leaves, but the system still needs technical improvements.
Omani trekker Fathiya Al Zadjali was rescued after three nights stranded on a mountain during severe flooding in Nepal. Her family lost contact with her while she waited with other survivors for a helicopter rescue.
A glacier collapse near the Nepal-Tibet border caused destructive flash floods on August 26. More than 160 people were reported dead, while nearly 1,500 remained missing as rescue work continued.
A newly published study by researchers at Sultan Qaboos University found that floods increased microplastic pollution at most sampled sites in Oman’s Wadi Al Khoud. The sharpest rise was recorded near a flood-retention dam.
Sixteen Moroccan fishermen were brought safely aboard a nearby fishing vessel after their boat sank in rough conditions off the southern coast. The rescuing crew then headed to Dakhla port with the survivors.
Iraq’s cabinet has activated a framework water agreement with Türkiye. The mechanism for financing projects under the agreement is scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2026.
Jordan’s Water Authority launched 34 digital services covering private wells, laboratories, drilling, and treated-water requests. The initiative allows residents, businesses, and public institutions to complete transactions online.
