RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is set to bolster its water security efforts with a new deal to build and operate 16 decentralized purification plants across the Kingdom. 

The Saudi Water Authority and the National Water Co. signed the deal to improve drinking water availability and advance sustainable groundwater desalination technologies. The plants are expected to produce over 18,000 cubic meters of water per day, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Saudi Arabia currently treats and reuses 21 percent of its wastewater, with plans to increase this to 70 percent by 2030. The new facilities are designed to align with this goal, contributing to both environmental sustainability and improved service delivery. 

The initiative forms part of SWA’s broader strategy to advance integrated water resource management, boost sector sustainability, and modernize infrastructure.  

“It also aims to maximize the benefit from the engineering and technical expertise and capabilities of the authority’s staff, and to implement the latest technologies and innovations in cooperation with global equipment manufacturers to ensure the highest levels of operational efficiency and sustainability,” the SPA report added.   

The purification plants are expected to serve over 80,000 people, supported by integrated water treatment and distribution systems. These systems are designed to enhance the reliability of water supply in regions facing resource constraints, marking a significant step toward fortifying essential services. 

Saudi Arabia continues to face water scarcity challenges due to its arid climate and limited natural water resources. Tackling this issue has driven the Kingdom to adopt innovative solutions for water production, management, and distribution.  

Over the past five decades, the Kingdom has undergone a rapid transformation in its water sector, evolving from its first desalination initiative in 1970 to the establishment of the SWA.  

Today, SWA plays a central role in regulation, oversight, and strategic planning under the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, ensuring sector sustainability, adherence to international standards, and continuous improvement in service quality.  

Today, SWA plays a pivotal role in regulation, oversight, and strategic planning under the umbrella of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, ensuring sector sustainability, compliance with international standards, and continuous improvement in service quality.