NWC Completes SAR210 Million Water Projects in Al-Kharj, Al-Sulayel

The National Water Company (NWC) has completed three major water and sanitation projects in Al-Kharj and Al-Sulayel governorates in Riyadh Region, involving more than 119 kilometers of new lines and networks at a total cost exceeding SAR210 million, the company announced on March 13, 2025. The projects, carried out under the supervision of Saudi Arabia’s official water authorities, mark a significant step in the Kingdom’s drive to modernize water infrastructure, expand sanitation coverage, and reinforce environmental sustainability across rapidly growing regions.

So what does this level of investment mean for residents, businesses, and the Kingdom’s long-term development goals? The announcement reflects a sustained national effort to upgrade essential services in line with Saudi Vision 2030, which places water security, environmental protection, and quality of life among its central objectives. The NWC projects in Al-Kharj and Al-Sulayel are designed to serve expanding residential districts, improve operational efficiency, and reduce environmental impact, while supporting the broader strategic direction set by the Saudi leadership for the water and environmental sectors. The scale of the work, covering dozens of districts and tens of thousands of cubic meters of daily capacity, underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to delivering reliable, sustainable services to communities across Riyadh Region.

Context and Background

Why has the National Water Company prioritized Al-Kharj and Al-Sulayel for such substantial investment? Both governorates sit within Riyadh Region, one of the fastest-growing areas in the Kingdom, where population growth and urban expansion have placed increasing demands on water and sanitation networks. Al-Kharj, a historic agricultural center, and Al-Sulayel, a strategically located governorate to the south of the capital, have seen rising residential and commercial development. The NWC’s projects are therefore a direct response to the need for infrastructure that can keep pace with this growth while maintaining high standards of service and environmental responsibility.

The National Water Company, a major provider of water and wastewater services in Saudi Arabia, operates under the strategic direction of the Kingdom’s leadership to improve the operational efficiency of the water and environmental sectors. Its work aligns with national programs aimed at achieving water security, enhancing the distribution system, and contributing to environmental sustainability. The completion of these three projects follows a series of infrastructure milestones announced through official Saudi channels, demonstrating a consistent, phased approach to upgrading networks across the country. The projects also reflect the broader modernization of public services that has been a hallmark of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy, improve quality of life, and build world-class infrastructure.

In Al-Kharj, the completed work includes phase six of the sewage lines and networks, extending over 47.5 kilometers, along with an expansion of a lifting station to a capacity exceeding 57,000 cubic meters per day. This phase, at a cost of more than SAR131 million, will enhance services for the districts of Al-Worood, Al-Fursan, Al-Aaliya, and Al-Asamiya. Separately, the company completed the installation of eight water networks connecting existing lines to desalinated water lines, covering nearly three kilometers in total, at a cost exceeding SAR4.4 million. These connections will improve water service to 13 districts, including Al-Jawhara, Al-Muhammadiyah, Al-Hanakia, Al-Munifiya, Al-Nasifah, East Al-Nasifah, Al-Rashdan, Al-Slamiya, Maqboula, Rafi’a, North Rafi’a, Al-Faiha’a, and Bad’a bin Arfaj.

Key Details of the Completed Projects

What exactly has been delivered on the ground? In Al-Kharj, the expansion of the lifting station to more than 57,000 cubic meters per day represents a major increase in capacity, enabling the network to handle larger volumes of wastewater and supporting the reliability of the entire sanitation system. The 47.5 kilometers of new sewage lines and networks in phase six are designed to serve densely populated districts, reducing the risk of overflows and improving environmental conditions. The eight water network connections to desalinated water lines, though relatively short in length, play a critical role in integrating new supply sources into the local distribution system, ensuring that residents receive consistent, high-quality water.

In Al-Sulayel, the NWC completed phase one of the sewage networks, spanning 68.5 kilometers, and constructed a lifting station with a daily capacity of around 30,000 cubic meters, at a total cost of SAR75 million. This first phase establishes the backbone of a modern sanitation system for the governorate, which will support future expansion and connect more households and businesses to safe, efficient wastewater services. The lifting station is a key component, as it moves wastewater to treatment facilities, where it can be processed in line with environmental standards. Together, the Al-Kharj and Al-Sulayel projects cover more than 119 kilometers of lines and networks, a substantial addition to the region’s infrastructure.

The National Water Company emphasized that these projects are part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the water distribution system, reduce environmental impact, and achieve water security and environmental sustainability. The company reiterated its commitment to executing its strategic plans to improve the operational efficiency of the water and environmental sectors, adhering to the highest standards of quality and performance and contributing to the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The projects were announced through the Saudi Press Agency, the Kingdom’s official news authority, underscoring the transparency and public accountability that accompany major infrastructure developments.

International and Regional Impact

How do these local projects resonate beyond Riyadh Region? Saudi Arabia’s investments in water infrastructure are closely watched by international partners, investors, and multilateral organizations interested in sustainability and urban development. By expanding sanitation coverage and integrating desalinated water into local networks, the Kingdom demonstrates a practical commitment to addressing water scarcity, a challenge shared by many countries in the Middle East and North Africa. The NWC’s work in Al-Kharj and Al-Sulayel therefore serves as a model for efficient, large-scale infrastructure delivery that can be replicated in other regions, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a leader in water management and environmental stewardship.

Regionally, the projects contribute to the stability and attractiveness of Riyadh Region as a place to live, work, and invest. Reliable water and sanitation services are essential for public health, economic activity, and social well-being. As Saudi Arabia continues to host major international events, attract foreign investment, and develop new urban centers, the quality of its infrastructure becomes an increasingly important factor in its global competitiveness. The completion of these projects sends a positive signal that the Kingdom is investing in the foundations of long-term prosperity, in line with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

Economic and Strategic Significance

Why does spending more than SAR210 million on water and sanitation make economic sense? Investments in infrastructure generate direct and indirect benefits: they create jobs during construction, improve the efficiency of service delivery, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and support public health by lowering the risk of waterborne diseases. For Al-Kharj and Al-Sulayel, the new networks and lifting stations will enable more efficient use of water resources, including desalinated water, which is a strategic priority for a country that relies heavily on desalination. By connecting existing lines to desalinated water sources, the NWC is enhancing the resilience of the water supply system and reducing losses.

Strategically, these projects align with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to achieve water security, a cornerstone of national development. Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in desalination capacity, water reuse, and network modernization to ensure that its growing population and economy have access to reliable water. The NWC’s phased approach, completing projects in stages, allows for continuous improvement and adaptation to local needs. The projects also demonstrate the effectiveness of public-private coordination and the ability of Saudi institutions to deliver complex infrastructure on time and within budget, which enhances investor confidence and supports the economic diversification agenda of Saudi Vision 2030.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How do these projects connect to the Kingdom’s long-term vision? Saudi Vision 2030 aims to build a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. Water security and environmental sustainability are integral to all three pillars. By expanding sanitation networks, reducing environmental impact, and improving water distribution, the NWC is directly contributing to the Vision’s objectives of enhancing quality of life, protecting natural resources, and fostering sustainable urban development. The projects also support the National Water Strategy, which seeks to ensure the sustainability of water resources and improve the efficiency of the sector.

Under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Saudi Arabia has made remarkable progress in modernizing its infrastructure and public services. The completion of these projects in Al-Kharj and Al-Sulayel is another milestone in that journey. As the Kingdom continues to implement Vision 2030, investments in water and environmental projects will remain a priority, ensuring that communities across Saudi Arabia benefit from reliable services and a cleaner environment. The NWC’s achievement reflects the dedication and professionalism of Saudi institutions and their commitment to building a better future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. What did the National Water Company announce on March 13, 2025?

A1. The National Water Company announced the completion of three major water and sanitation projects in Al-Kharj and Al-Sulayel governorates in Riyadh Region, involving over 119 kilometers of lines and networks at a total cost exceeding SAR210 million.

Q2. How much did the projects cost in total?

A2. The total cost of the three projects exceeded SAR210 million, reflecting a substantial investment in water and sanitation infrastructure in Riyadh Region.

Q3. What was completed in Al-Kharj as part of the sewage network expansion?

A3. In Al-Kharj, NWC completed phase six of the sewage lines and networks, extending over 47.5 kilometers, and expanded the lifting station to a capacity exceeding 57,000 cubic meters per day.

Q4. Which districts in Al-Kharj will benefit from the sewage project?

A4. The districts of Al-Worood, Al-Fursan, Al-Aaliya, and Al-Asamiya will benefit from the enhanced sewage services provided by the completed project.

Q5. What was the cost of the Al-Kharj sewage project?

A5. The Al-Kharj sewage project, including phase six and the lifting station expansion, cost more than SAR131 million.

Q6. What water network connections were completed in Al-Kharj?

A6. NWC completed the installation of eight water networks connecting existing lines to desalinated water lines, covering nearly three kilometers in total, at a cost exceeding SAR4.4 million.

Q7. Which districts will benefit from the new water network connections?

A7. Thirteen districts will benefit, including Al-Jawhara, Al-Muhammadiyah, Al-Hanakia, Al-Munifiya, Al-Nasifah, East Al-Nasifah, Al-Rashdan, Al-Slamiya, Maqboula, Rafi’a, North Rafi’a, Al-Faiha’a, and Bad’a bin Arfaj.

Q8. What was completed in Al-Sulayel?

A8. In Al-Sulayel, NWC completed phase one of the sewage networks, spanning 68.5 kilometers, and constructed a lifting station with a daily capacity of around 30,000 cubic meters.

Q9. What was the cost of the Al-Sulayel project?

A9. The Al-Sulayel project, including the sewage networks and lifting station, cost SAR75 million.

Q10. How many kilometers of lines and networks were completed in total?

A10. The projects involved more than 119 kilometers of lines and networks across Al-Kharj and Al-Sulayel, enhancing water and sanitation services in Riyadh Region.

Q11. What is the capacity of the expanded lifting station in Al-Kharj?

A11. The expanded lifting station in Al-Kharj has a capacity exceeding 57,000 cubic meters per day, significantly improving the handling of wastewater in the area.

Q12. What is the capacity of the new lifting station in Al-Sulayel?

A12. The new lifting station in Al-Sulayel has a daily capacity of around 30,000 cubic meters, supporting the newly constructed sewage networks.

Q13. Why are these projects important for environmental sustainability?

A13. These projects reduce environmental impact by improving wastewater management, preventing overflows, and integrating desalinated water into local networks, thereby supporting water security and environmental sustainability.

Q14. How do these projects contribute to Saudi Vision 2030?

A14. They contribute to Vision 2030 by enhancing quality of life, improving water distribution, achieving water security, and promoting environmental sustainability, all of which are key objectives of the Vision.

Q15. What did NWC say about its commitment to quality and performance?

A15. NWC emphasized its commitment to executing strategic plans to improve operational efficiency, adhering to the highest standards of quality and performance, and contributing to Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.

Q16. Which official Saudi source announced these projects?

A16. The projects were announced through the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Kingdom’s official news authority, reflecting transparency in reporting major infrastructure developments.

Q17. How will the new water networks in Al-Kharj improve service?

A17. The eight new water networks connect existing lines to desalinated water lines, ensuring a more reliable and higher-quality water supply to 13 districts in Al-Kharj.

Q18. What are the benefits of the sewage projects for residents?

A18. The sewage projects provide safe and efficient wastewater management, reduce health risks, improve environmental conditions, and support the expansion of residential and commercial areas.

Q19. How do these projects reflect Saudi Arabia’s leadership in water management?

A19. They demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to water security, large-scale infrastructure investment, and environmental stewardship, positioning the Kingdom as a regional leader in sustainable water management.

Q20. What is the expected long-term impact of these projects?

A20. In the long term, these projects will enhance the reliability of water and sanitation services, support population growth, protect the environment, and contribute to the economic and social development goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

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