Rabigh: A Model of Water Sustainability

Located 140 kilometers north of Jeddah, Rabigh Governorate is a shining example of water sustainability. With its rich history of water management and innovative desalination technologies, Rabigh has transformed its approach to water resource management.

Historically, Rabigh relied on ancient water storage systems, cisterns, to meet its needs of water. These underground tanks, expertly crafted from durable marine stones that are found along the Red Sea coast and are resistant to the effects of sea humidity, provided a reliable source of drinking and irrigation water for centuries.

The water in the cisterns would remain pure for up to three months, to the benefit of the residents of Rabigh and its surroundings, as well as of the pilgrims and visitors traveling to Makkah and Madinah.

In recent years, Rabigh has embraced modern water technologies. The Wadi Rabigh Dam, completed in 2009, captures rainwater for agricultural use. Desalination plants, including Rabigh 3 IWP, the world’s largest reverse osmosis desalination facility, according to the Guinness World Records™, have been established to meet the growing demand for fresh water.

The Energy and Water Academy in Rabigh plays a crucial role in developing local expertise in water management. The academy offers vocational training programs, equipping young Saudis with the skills needed to work in the water treatment and desalination industry.

Rabigh’s commitment to water sustainability is an extension of its ability to balance tradition and innovation. By preserving its historical water landmarks while adopting modern technologies, the governorate has secured a sustainable water future for its residents.