Numerous options exist to assist countries in mitigating the sources and impacts of sand and dust storms (SDS). However, as a transboundary issue, combating sand and dust storms requires cooperation across borders. In this context, the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), in partnership with the Government of Sweden, launched a Dialogue Series on Fostering Interregional Collaboration on Sand and Dust Storms.
The first dialogue (Doha, February 2025) fostered understanding among nominated national focal points from ESCAP and ESCWA member States in Western Asia. The second dialogue (Abu Dhabi, May 2025) focused on collaborative solutions and priority measures and led to the conceptualization of a collaborative initiative.

This paper was produced by ESCAP/APDIM and ESCWA, based on the country presentations delivered during the first dialogue as well as additional analysis and maps produced by ESCAP and ESCWA.

The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the regional challenges and to facilitate discussions on concrete steps and actions needed to address the sand and dust storm challenge in Western Asia, building on a shared understanding of the problem.