Saudi Arabia Unveils New Irrigation Code to Save Water

Saudi Arabia has developed a new national Code of Irrigation Practices designed to cut agricultural water use, with projections showing potential annual savings of about 2 billion cubic meters of water once fully applied. The framework was prepared by the Saudi Irrigation Organization, part of the water sector under the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture.

The code is a voluntary framework rather than a binding law. It covers the full lifecycle of irrigation systems, including planning, design, installation, operation, and maintenance. Officials say it was in its final stages and set for official launch during the World Water Forum, following a public consultation held through the national e-participation platform in May and June 2025.

What the code targets

A central goal is to raise irrigation efficiency from around 55% to more than 70%. For grain cultivation specifically, the code aims to reduce water use from 9,750 cubic meters 500 cubic meters Under the draft, certifications would remain valid for three years and be subject to periodic audits.

For residents and the wider community, the move reflects the Kingdom's continued focus on water security in one of the world's most water-scarce regions. Agriculture accounts for a large share of national water consumption, so improving efficiency in this sector can ease pressure on scarce resources while supporting sustainable food production.

The available information does not indicate any specific fee or government charge for the code itself. The Saudi Irrigation Organization remains the relevant authority overseeing the framework.

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