Saudi Arabia is preparing to expand its cloud-seeding program as part of a broader effort to tackle its growing water shortage. Deputy Environment Minister Osama Ibrahim Faqeeha announced the expansion during a recent interview at the UN General Assembly in New York. The cloud-seeding initiative aims to artificially induce rainfall in a region facing severe water scarcity and desertification.

The program, which began in the early 2000s, was initially unsuccessful. However, recent advancements in artificial intelligence, meteorology, and remote sensing have significantly improved its effectiveness. According to Faqeeha, the team of domestic and international researchers now has a better understanding of the types of clouds that can be seeded and the specific timing needed for the process to work.

Cloud seeding involves introducing substances into clouds to cool them, causing rain to fall where it otherwise wouldn’t. This controversial method is being explored by many countries to combat rising global temperatures and water shortages. While some see it as a practical solution to drought, critics argue that more research is needed to understand the potential long-term effects on ecosystems.

Saudi Arabia’s expansion of the program is part of a broader push to combat desertification. Riyadh will host the COP16 summit on combating desertification in December, where it plans to lead discussions on innovative solutions to address land degradation. Faqeeha emphasized that the kingdom must explore every possible avenue to secure water for its citizens.

Despite the criticisms, the cloud-seeding program is moving forward as Saudi Arabia prepares to lead in regional research on weather modification. The kingdom is positioning itself as a leader in the fight against desertification in the Middle East, which could have global implications.