Groundwater Sustainability Enhanced In Saudi Arabia By KACST And MEWA

The King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, held a workshop titled "Groundwater Sustainability: From Recharge to Restoration" at its Riyadh headquarters. Discussions focused on aquifer recharge, restoration technologies and sustainable practices to support water security in Saudi Arabia.

The event gathered 120 researchers, technical experts and policymakers from Saudi Arabia and other countries. Participants examined how scientific research, modern engineering solutions and policy measures can reduce pressure on non-renewable groundwater, improve storage efficiency and align water management with international standards and Saudi Vision 2030 targets.

Speakers linked groundwater sustainability efforts to the National Water Strategy, which seeks to lower production costs and dependency on non-renewable reserves. The strategy supports investment in research and development, promotes innovation in storage projects and encourages economic solutions that fit national sustainability plans and long-term development objectives.

MEWA Deputy Minister for Water Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shibani explained that the strategy frames the sector’s overall direction. Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shibani said it aims to secure safe water supply, protect and develop resources and improve use efficiency, while supporting sustainable development and strengthening readiness through the Sector Resilience Program.

KACST Vice President of Sustainability and Environment Dr. Abdullah Al-Khudairi said the workshop addresses growing water demand and resource scarcity by transferring knowledge and applying modern technologies. Dr. Abdullah Al-Khudairi noted that KACST focuses on research-based solutions in desalination, water treatment and renewable energy, alongside cooperation with national and international partners.

KACST General Manager of the Water Management and Treatment Institute Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Salman outlined the scientific value of the meeting. Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Salman said the workshop improves understanding of groundwater recharge and restoration, supports better aquifer management and helps build specialised national skills capable of handling normal and emergency water challenges.

Groundwater sustainability workshop sessions and recommendations

Technical sessions reviewed sources of water suitable for recharge, types of aquifers that can store water and related geological and environmental features. Presenters discussed advanced injection and monitoring systems, engineering designs for storage projects and technical standards that help maintain sustainable, safe and efficient groundwater restoration operations over the long term.

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Participants evaluated successful groundwater sustainability experiences from Saudi Arabia, the wider region and international case studies. At the end of discussions, recommendations supported integrated resource management plans, laws and policies on groundwater storage, stronger cooperation between research bodies and implementing agencies, and clear priorities for upcoming projects within arid and semi-arid environments.

Attendees also called for a dedicated platform to exchange expertise and strengthen national capabilities in water management. They viewed the workshop as part of Saudi Arabia’s broader effort to enhance water security, support an economy grounded in innovation and sustainability, and maintain reliable groundwater reserves for future generations and ongoing national development.

With inputs from SPA