The total area of the Arab Region is about 14·2 million km², 90% of it lies within arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas. The area is characterized by harsh environment, fragile ecosystems and limited water resources and arable lands. Throughout its long history these lands were the main source of grain and animal production. Keywords: desertification, matrix of desertification, population growth and urbanization, water demand, cost, future outlook.