Summary 1: Searching for Water

The Bedouin knew every well across the country. The reservoirs provided not only a source of water, but also guidance for navigation thorough the desert. The Bedouin improved the ability to read subtle clues about where water might be. For example like, following the twittering or flights of birds, or collecting rain. Most Bedouin dug-man sized wells, between 3 and 10 meters deep, with their bare hands. A coastal Bedouin, used a sheepskin water vessel called a ‘Qerba’ to desalinate sea water and make it suitable to drink. The Bedouin would drain a camel’s body for its water, because camels can store a lot of water in their stomach. The Bedouin were also acclimatised to the desert heat and able to withstand greater dehydration than the most.

Summary 2: The Masdar Project

The Masdar Project

Masdar, owned by Abu Dhabi government (Part of Mubadala) is thinking about constructing a wind farm near the border with Saudi Arabia which will cost US$200m, and be unique to the area. The product of the wind farm is going to add 7% of its renewable energy by 2020.

One of the most important issues that occur in the Gulf is that there is no wind. Because of that, special blades and turbines will have to be created to take advantage of the light breezes.

Masdar is responsible for helping AbuDhabi reach the 7% target. It already has two 100Mgw solar projects being built. The wind project would also produce 100mgw, but could be higher.

Masdar could award the construction contract as soon as January, depending on the results of studies, and could be producing electricity as soon as 2years later.

Wind power is more challenging to develop in the GCC than solar energy, because of the light winds. But, if you have the proper land, wind, and connection to the electric grid, then its possible.

This project would cost US$200m Masdar estimates, and would need to be financed like other ‘Green Projects’.

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