Requirements for transferring non-networked water and the deadline for rectification
The Saudi Water Authority has issued an urgent call to all workers and investors in the off-grid water transmission sector to expedite the rectification of their legal and technical statuses, as the deadline for the first phase, set for December 31st, approaches. This step is part of the Authority's efforts to implement the approved regulatory and technical requirements, which aim to organize this vital sector and ensure the quality of services provided to beneficiaries.
Requirements for the first stage: Examination and visual identity
The authority clarified that the current phase focuses on a set of essential requirements that cannot be compromised, foremost among them being the periodic inspection of tankers to ensure their mechanical and technical safety and suitability for transporting water. In addition, the authority emphasized the necessity of adhering to the approved visual identity , which aims to distinguish licensed tankers and standardize their appearance to reflect the service's modern image and facilitate the ability of regulatory bodies and users to identify the type of water transported (potable or non-potable).
Organizational context and strategic objectives
This measure is not merely a passing administrative decision, but rather part of a comprehensive national strategy for the water sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This regulation aims to eliminate the haphazard nature of water distribution via tankers and wastewater collection services. Through these regulations, the Kingdom seeks to achieve water security and enhance the efficiency of supply chains, in line with the objectives of Vision 2030, which places quality of life and the sustainability of natural resources at the heart of its priorities.
Expected impact: Quality, safety, and reliability
Compliance with these requirements is expected to bring about a significant improvement in the level of services provided. From a health perspective, the regulations ensure access to clean and safe water for consumers, reducing the health risks associated with transporting water in non-compliant tankers. Economically, these regulations promote fair competition among licensed service providers and curb illegal or unregulated activities in the sector, thereby enhancing the reliability of the local market.
Correction and Post-Correction Mechanism
The Saudi Water Authority urged all stakeholders to take advantage of the remaining period and visit its website to complete licensing procedures and rectify any existing issues. The Authority also warned that the expiration of the deadline will be followed by intensive monitoring campaigns and field inspections to identify violators. Legal procedures will be enforced and penalties will be imposed on anyone who fails to comply with the new requirements, paving the way for the second phase, which will include more precise supplementary technical requirements.
