How Saudi Arabia is preserving its precious freshwater resources

King Fahd Dam, located in Bisha governorate, Asir province, is one of the largest concrete dams in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia is increasing the amount of rainwater harvesting through new dams and efficiently managing existing dams to allocate water to agriculture. ()SPA)
Short Url
Updated 01 February 2025
Follow

How Saudi Arabia is preserving its precious freshwater resources

  • Vision 2030 prioritizes sustainable water management through conservation programs, advanced irrigation, and public awareness initiatives
  • US firm Ecolab partners with Saudi companies like Aramco to develop water-saving technologies and improve resource management

RIYADH: Water scarcity is a pressing issue in Saudi Arabia, significantly impacting the country’s socio-economic development as well as its environmental sustainability.

As one of the hottest and driest regions in the world, the Kingdom faces many challenges owing to its limited natural freshwater sources and high rates of evaporation.

These harsh realities have forced the country to rely on limited groundwater and desalination plants, where 75 percent of the country’s water supply comes from.

However, the nature of the desalination process raises concerns about environmental sustainability and carbon emissions due to the amount of energy used by these technologies.

In addition, the over-extraction of groundwater for agricultural and domestic use could exhaust natural aquifers and deteriorate water quality.

This realization has pushed officials to explore solutions to develop the water sector in order to meet the needs of the Kingdom’s growing population.

Opinion

This section contains relevant reference points, placed in (Opinion field)

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform agenda emphasizes green development, and sustainable water sources are a key aspect of the plan.

To achieve this objective, the Kingdom is collaborating with foreign companies including the US firm Ecolab to mitigate the severity of water loss.

Christophe Beck, chairman and CEO of Ecolab, outlined some of the company’s strategies to preserve water while reducing energy usage.

“In 2024, we helped preserve enough water for 800 million people, and we are on the path to 1 billion by 2030,” Beck told Arab News.

“We have built our capabilities around the world because of the science we have at our disposal. We have 3,000 people in research and development and digital technology.




Ecolab has been operating in Saudi Arabia for 47 years, collaborating with local firms in managing water supplies, combating potential pollutants and infections, and on human and natural resource protection. (Supplied)




Ecolab employs around 3,000 people in research and development and digital technology to run its operations in 40 different industries across 172 countries. (Supplied)

Ecolab operates in 40 different industries across 172 countries, managing water supplies, combating potential pollutants and infections, and focusing on human and natural resource protection.

The company has been operating in Saudi Arabia for 47 years, collaborating with local firms such as Saudi Aramco, SABIC, and Almarai.

“This country has a lot of natural resources and a lot of ambition. But one thing is missing — water. There are no lakes, no rivers, but there is a lot of sea around us. However, this is not freshwater. That’s a big challenge,” said Beck.




In the oases of Al-Ahsa in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, scientists have found that traditional farming techniques stretching back centuries helped preserve one of the region’s green gems. (Supplied)

The necessity to preserve freshwater has led the Kingdom to introduce water conservation programs, along with promoting efficient irrigation technologies and enhancing public awareness about water usage.

In addition, the National Water Co. has completed several operations to ensure easy access to fresh water for all in any location within Saudi Arabia, including rural areas.

NWC distributed more than 3.7 billion cubic meters of water during the past year in various regions of the Kingdom and treated more than 2.1 billion cubic meters of wastewater during the same year.

DID YOUKNOW?

• Ecolab operates in 172 countries, including Singapore, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Taiwan.

• 10% of animal species rely on freshwater ecosystems, according to Nature Conservancy Canada.

• Two-thirds of the world’s population experiences water shortages at least once a year, according to WWF.

However, achieving water security will require a holistic approach that integrates technology, media, and community engagement.

“Awareness helps, as does realizing that no one can solve it alone,” said Beck.

“When I think about Saudi Arabia, I think we have all we need. The natural resources, the industries, the means, and the ambition. But we don’t have water, and we have too few water experts who know how to reuse or recycle water to power the future industries of the Kingdom.

“What I hope to accomplish in Saudi Arabia, and again, we’ve been here for 47 years, is really thinking in the long term, to turn Saudi Arabia into an example of a country that can grow without using more water at the same time.




General view of the Ras al-Khair water desalination plant, owned by the Saudi government's Saline Water Conversion Corporation, along the Gulf coast in eastern Saudi Arabia. (AFP)

“And if Saudi Arabia can do it, many countries around the region can do it, and around the world as well.”

Addressing water scarcity is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of Saudi Arabia’s economy and overall quality of life.

Without significant and immediate action, the challenges associated with water scarcity and with the increasing heat conditions and drought worldwide, are likely going to intensify not only for Saudi Arabia but for several other countries in the region in the coming years.
 

 


Saudi Cabinet reviews regional developments, approves key agreements

Updated 11 February 2025
Follow

Saudi Cabinet reviews regional developments, approves key agreements

  • Ministers reject Israeli statements advocating displacement of Palestinians
  • Meeting praises Kingdom’s economic diversification efforts

RIYADH: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chaired the weekly Cabinet session in Riyadh on Tuesday, where key regional and international issues were discussed and agreements aimed at enhancing the Kingdom’s global partnerships were approved, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The crown prince briefed the Cabinet on his recent phone calls with Jordan’s King Abdullah II and UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

The Cabinet strongly rejected Israeli statements advocating the displacement of Palestinians, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the Palestinian cause. The ministers said that lasting peace could be achieved only through the two-state solution and peaceful coexistence.

The session highlighted the Kingdom’s growing influence in multilateral organizations, particularly its recent election to the Executive Committee of the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities. The achievement reflects global recognition of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to combat corruption and promote transparency.

On the domestic front, the Cabinet praised the continuing economic diversification efforts, particularly the launch of the King Salman Automobile Manufacturing Complex, which is expected to boost the economic contribution of the non-oil sector and support the National Industry and Logistics Development Program.

The ministers commended the completion of the Financial Sustainability Program’s executive plan, which aims to enhance spending efficiency, develop revenue streams and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s economic resilience under Vision 2030.

The Kingdom’s top ranking on the security index for the Group of 20 industrialized and emerging-market nations was also recognized as a testament to its leadership in ensuring stability and prosperity.

During the session, the Cabinet approved several agreements to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s international partnerships. In the field of security cooperation, ministers signed a deal with Jordan to combat narcotics trafficking, while on the diplomatic front, a mutual visa exemption deal was finalized with the Solomon Islands for holders of diplomatic, special and official passports.

Economic and trade relations were also discussed, with the Cabinet authorizing negotiations for a political consultations memorandum with Armenia and approving a commercial cooperation agreement with the Maldives.

A new partnership was also established with Oman in the field of economy and planning, while a separate memorandum of understanding was signed with Qatar to enhance financial cooperation. The government also approved an agreement with Serbia to avoid double taxation and prevent tax evasion.

In the cultural and scientific fields, a memorandum of understanding was signed with Morocco’s Hassan II Mosque Foundation to promote traditional arts, while another was agreed with the UK’s Meteorological Office for cooperation in meteorology.

Transport and infrastructure initiatives were also on the agenda, with the approval of an agreement with Egypt to enhance maritime connectivity and passenger transport in the Gulf of Aqaba. In the financial sector, the Cabinet endorsed a new partnership to enhance cooperation between the Saudi Central Bank and the Central Bank of Turkiye.

The Cabinet also approved amendments to the Public Prosecution Law and the Board of Grievances Law, adding experienced professionals to their respective councils. Additionally, key promotions were confirmed, including the appointment of Abdul-Moneim bin Abdul-Rahman bin Saleh Al-Mahmoud as an ambassador at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.


Saudi paralympic ball game helping empower people with disabilities

Boccia, a precision ball game, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity. (SPA)
Updated 11 February 2025
Follow

Saudi paralympic ball game helping empower people with disabilities

  • Boccia uses six leather balls per side and can be played by individuals, pairs, or teams of three

RIYADH: The sport of boccia is helping to empower people living with severe physical disabilities across the Kingdom, the head of its governing body said.

The precision ball game, which is related to bowls and petanque, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity.

Boccia, a precision ball game, was introduced into the Paralympic Games in 1984 and has since rocketed in popularity. (SPA)

Mohsen Al-Ismail, president of the Saudi Boccia Federation, said his organization was committed to promoting the sport throughout the Kingdom and helping nurture talent, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

When the game was introduced to the Paralympics it was designed to be played by people with cerebral palsy but now includes athletes with other disabilities affecting motor skills.

FASTFACTS

• Mohsen Al-Ismail, president of the Saudi Boccia Federation, said his organization was committed to promoting the sport throughout the Kingdom and helping nurture talent.

• In 1984, the sport attracted just 19 athletes from five countries. In 2024, there were 116 players from 75 countries.

In 1984, the sport attracted just 19 athletes from five countries. In 2024, there were 116 players from 75 countries.

Al-Ismail said the sport helped individuals with cerebral palsy, particularly those with nerve issues, by improving balance, stimulating blood circulation, strengthening muscles and supporting motor rehabilitation.

Boccia uses six leather balls per side and can be played by individuals, pairs, or teams of three. The aim is for players to throw their balls as close as they can to a white target ball, or jack.

The game dates back to ancient Greece and Egypt and its name is derived from the Latin word for “boss.”

 


Saudi Arabia tops G20 Safety Index, GASTAT report says

Updated 11 February 2025
Follow

Saudi Arabia tops G20 Safety Index, GASTAT report says

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has ranked first among G20 countries in public safety perception, with 92.6 percent of the Kingdom’s population feeling safe walking alone at night in their residential areas, according to the 2023 Safety Index Publication issued by the General Authority for Statistics.

The data, drawn from the Global Sustainable Development Goals Indicators Database, highlights the effectiveness of government initiatives aimed at enhancing security and quality of life across the country, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

GASTAT said the results reflected the contributions of various government sectors in ensuring the safety of individuals across all regions and governorates.

Saudi Arabia’s ranking aligned with its broader efforts as part of the Saudi Vision 2030 to enhance stability and well-being across multiple domains, including economic, food, environmental, health, social, political, intellectual, technological, and cybersecurity safety, SPA added.

The Safety Index Publication was a key outcome of the 2023 Household Socio-Economic Survey, which assessed various aspects of economic and social life in Saudi Arabia, including residents’ perceptions of safety in their local communities.


Saudi Arabia’s real estate giant ROSHN using AI to enhance efficiency, improve services

Pablo Sanz, Executive Director of Digital Products at ROSHN Group speaks to Arab News at LEAP 2025. (AN photo)
Updated 11 February 2025
Follow

Saudi Arabia’s real estate giant ROSHN using AI to enhance efficiency, improve services

  • Technology helps build 3D models, automate procurement, executive says
  • State-owned developer has plans to build fully integrated communities in 9 cities

RIYADH: State-owned property developer ROSHN said it is using artificial intelligence across its operations to enhance efficiency, improve the customer experience and support its sustainability efforts.

Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the LEAP 2025 technology conference in Riyadh, Pablo Sanz, executive director of digital products, said: “We are deploying multiple AI agents … so we can serve you better or we can solve your problems in a more convenient way.”

The move was part of the company’s broader strategy to simplify processes and improve accessibility, to assist customers with purchases, moving in and managing services, he said.

Sanz said AI-powered tools were being used to create 3D models of buildings, automate the procurement process, streamline construction, reduce waste, improve efficiency and analyze data on real estate markets.

ROSHN recently partnered with Google Cloud to enhance its AI capabilities. The collaboration is designed to improve data-driven decision making and ensure the company’s developments align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 for smart and sustainable cities.

“AI is changing how we do a lot of things,” Sanz said. “The human touch is still important, but AI allows us to work faster and make processes more convenient in many areas, from customer interactions to supplier relationships.”

ROSHN has plans to build fully integrated communities in nine cities across the country and is a key player in the Kingdom’s goal to achieve 70 percent home ownership by 2030.

 


Experts weigh improving sustainability while remaining profitable

Updated 11 February 2025
Follow

Experts weigh improving sustainability while remaining profitable

  • Significant investment needed to meet UN SDGs
  • Sustainable ecosystem, supply chains crucial

RIYADH: Experts at a Riyadh conference have discussed the challenge of improving sustainable practices while remaining profitable.

Javed Akbar, chief governance, risk, insurance and compliance officer at chemical manufacturer Tasnee, spoke to Arab News on the sidelines of the World ESG Summit in Riyadh on Tuesday.

“Balancing itself is a challenge, in terms of achieving economic goals and sustainability development goals,” he said.

“Significant spending” is required to achieve sustainability goals,” Akbar added.

A 2024 UN report found that between $2.5 trillion to $4 trillion needs to be spent annually to meet the organization’s sustainable development goals.

Akbar said businesses that are “primarily for profit” struggle to focus on sustainability.

Another challenge businesses face is the lack of a strong sustainable ecosystem, he said.

For example, some businesses may have positive intentions and want to invest in sustainability goals, but other partners may not share these goals.

Muna Abdulkadir Al-Amer, general manager at Naqaa Solutions for Environmental Services, spoke to Arab News about the financial benefits of sustainability.

When asked about how companies could balance economic growth and environmental protection, she said: “It actually goes hand in hand. We can provide it in a model where it can be profitable as well and has some sort of financial sustainability for the client.”

She highlighted how green practices can be profitable, saying: “When you are recycling, the materials that you are collecting, after they are segregated and cleaned, are worth money.

“When we sell them for the recycling factories, they are worth money and this money goes back to the client.”

However, she added that Naqaa’s primary focus was sustainability and not profitability.

This results in reducing waste and encouraging environmental protection, while “the financial return will go back to you,” Al-Amer said.

Naqaa was founded in 2011 as a university project between Al-Amer and her friends. Soon after the group graduated from Dar Alhekma University in Jeddah, they began receiving clients, including international companies aiming to improve sustainability efforts.

Finally, focusing on economic growth and environmental protection can bring a sense of social responsibility for people toward their societies, as collaborative work can make a difference for the overall ecosystem, Al-Amer said.

“What we are looking for is the social impacts of it there, where they (employees) come to a working environment and they are engaging in a bigger purpose in the organization they work at,” said Al-Amer.