In a major push to enhance water security and infrastructure, Saudi Arabia’s National Water Company (NWC) has kicked off 38 water and sanitation projects in the Asir region, with a total investment of approximately $533 million (SAR 2 billion). These projects, comprising 27 water initiatives and 11 sanitation projects, aim to expand access to clean water, improve wastewater management, and align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals for sustainable development.
Project Breakdown
The 38 projects are strategically designed to address the growing demand for water and sanitation services in the Asir region. Below is a detailed overview of the initiatives:
| Category | Details | Numbers |
| Total Projects | Water and sanitation projects in Asir region | 38 (27 water, 11 sanitation) |
| Investment | Total cost of projects | $533 million (SAR 2 billion) |
| Water Projects | Transmission lines and networks | 2,177 km |
| Water reservoirs constructed, capacity | 16 reservoirs, 54,500 m³ | |
| Pumping stations capacity | 15,000 m³ per day | |
| Sanitation Projects | Pipelines and networks | 357 km |
| Treatment plant capacity | 9,300 m³ per day | |
| Lift stations capacity | 106,000 m³ per day | |
| Locations Served | Districts including Abha, Khamis Mushait, An Namas, Ahad Rafidah, Mahayel Asir, Bisha, Balgarn, Al Wadiyan, Al-Qahma, Tanda, Al Haridah | – |
Water Projects
The 27 water projects focus on expanding the region’s water distribution network. These initiatives include:
- Transmission Lines and Networks: Construction of approximately 2,177 kilometres of pipelines to deliver clean water to communities across Asir.
- Water Reservoirs: Building 16 reservoirs with a combined capacity of 54,500 cubic meters to store and manage the water supply effectively.
- Pumping Stations: Installation of stations capable of pumping 15,000 cubic meters of water per day, ensuring consistent water flow to urban and rural areas.
These projects will serve key districts such as Abha, Khamis Mushait, An Namas, Ahad Rafidah, and Mahayel Asir, addressing the region’s growing water needs.
Sanitation Projects
The 11 sanitation projects aim to improve wastewater management and reduce environmental impact. Key components include:
- Pipelines and Networks: Over 357 kilometers of pipelines will be constructed to enhance sewage collection and transport.
- Wastewater Treatment Plant: A new treatment plant with a capacity of 9,300 cubic meters per day will be built in Al Qahma and Al Haridah centers.
- Lift Stations: Installation of lift stations with a total capacity of 106,000 cubic meters per day to support efficient wastewater handling.
These projects will benefit areas such as Bisha, Balgarn, Al Wadiyan, Al-Qahma, Tanda, and Al Haridah, improving sanitation services and promoting environmental sustainability.
Strategic Importance
The Asir region projects are a cornerstone of NWC’s mission to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s water and sanitation infrastructure. By expanding water distribution and improving sewage systems, NWC aims to:
- Ensure reliable access to clean water for residents.
- Mitigate environmental damage through advanced wastewater treatment.
- Enhance operational efficiency to meet the Kingdom’s growing population demands.
These efforts align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes sustainable development, economic diversification, and improved quality of life. The projects are expected to play a critical role in supporting public health and environmental goals in the Asir region.
Boost to the Construction Sector
The $533 million investment is set to stimulate the construction industry in Asir. The extensive scope of work, including pipelines, reservoirs, treatment plants, and lift stations, will create opportunities for local and international contractors, engineers, and suppliers. This initiative is likely to generate jobs and drive economic activity, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a hub for infrastructure development.
NWC’s Broader Efforts
The Asir projects are part of NWC’s ongoing commitment to improving water and sanitation infrastructure across the Kingdom. Earlier this year, NWC announced 30 similar projects in the Riyadh region, also valued at $533 million, which included 1,955 kilometers of pipelines and networks. Additionally, in May 2024, NWC launched 46 projects worth over SAR 1.6 billion, and in August 2024, 20 projects valued at approximately SAR 1 billion. These initiatives reflect NWC’s proactive approach to addressing Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure needs.
Vision 2030 Alignment
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 outlines ambitious goals for modernizing infrastructure to support economic growth and population expansion. The Asir projects contribute directly to these objectives by:
- Enhancing water security through expanded distribution networks.
- Improving sanitation services to protect public health and the environment.
- Supporting sustainable urban development in line with the Kingdom’s long-term vision.
Future Plans
NWC is expected to continue its infrastructure investments, with plans to award contracts for water purification plants and sewerage lines in 2025. These upcoming projects will further strengthen Saudi Arabia’s water security and support its growing population, ensuring long-term sustainability.
The launch of 38 water and sanitation projects in the Asir region marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s journey toward sustainable development. With a $533 million investment, these projects will enhance water access, improve sanitation, and support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. As NWC continues to drive infrastructure development, the construction sector in Asir and beyond is poised for growth, creating economic opportunities and improving the quality of life for residents.
