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Arid lands’ imminent water problems are nowadays aggravating. In general, these problems are complex not only due to technical and economic parameters, but also due to policy and institutional framework, human resources development and socio-cultural reasons. The aim of this paper is to reflect the wide variety of water related topics with their inherent complexity and to identify water resources research areas for future. The paper proceeds by reviewing the nature of problems that are emerging in water resources management, and the policy and institutional challenges that have been presented in various forums. It then suggests what water resources strategies and options will be important in research, policy and human resources in order to respond successfully to these challenges. Finally the paper suggests future research needs which will make a difference for various communities and countries around the globe.