In the dynamic heart of Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector, the sustained demand for robust and scalable infrastructure continues to shape the region's energy landscape.
At the absolute forefront of this ongoing industrial evolution is a landmark development in commercial water management. Almar Water Solutions, operating prominently as a vital part of Jameel Environmental Services, has officially been awarded a monumental expansion contract. The global leader in water infrastructure development and services will spearhead the expansion of the critically important Zuluf Water Treatment Project. Awarded by Aramco, this colossal undertaking is currently poised to proceed to financial close, remaining subject to customary conditions. This latest award serves as a powerful testament to the long-standing, collaborative relationship between both organisations.
To facilitate this massive industrial progression, an immense financial commitment has been established. The second phase of the Zuluf expansion brings with it a staggering total investment of $940 million. Structurally, the execution of this expansion has been meticulously planned to ensure seamless operational continuity. The contract was awarded to the exact same special purpose vehicle (SPV) through a direct extension of the previously established contractual framework. By extending the existing arrangements, the involved entities guarantee full continuity with the original concession structure. This particular structural framework comprises a formidable joint venture. Within this partnership, Almar Water Solutions operates as the leading party, working in close, strategic collaboration with the Al Jomaih Energy & Water Company to deliver these vital solutions.
The sheer scale of this infrastructural expansion represents a transformative leap in regional production capabilities. Upon completion, this highly anticipated second phase will successfully add a brand-new facility boasting an extraordinary operational capacity. The plant is meticulously designed to process approximately 308,000 cubic metres per day, which directly translates to an immense 1.9 million barrels of water per day. This significant enhancement in daily capacity will drastically increase the overall production of treated water specifically required for injection purposes. The current expansion fundamentally builds upon the highly successful foundation of the project's initial stage. The first phase of the Zuluf Water Treatment Plant, widely recognised as a strategic industrial facility, was officially launched in 2023 with a daily capacity of 185,000 cubic metres.
A critical element of this enormous undertaking is the overarching operational model governing the facility's lifecycle. Much like the inaugural phase, the newly expanded project shares an identical development structure operating under a rigorous BOOT concession. This Build-Own-Operate-Transfer arrangement provides a highly stable, long-term operational framework that is securely contracted to last until the year 2050. Together, the combined output and expert management of both operational phases represent a highly scalable, enduring infrastructure solution. It has been expressly designed and implemented to meet the rapidly growing demand for high-quality injection water. Furthermore, the combined facility design guarantees that this massive volume of resources is delivered with unparalleled operational reliability and efficiency.
Handling a project of this unprecedented magnitude requires exceptional industrial expertise. Consequently, Almar has been deliberately selected to manage the intricate technical, financial, and operational complexities associated with the endeavour, providing secure water solutions for this critical industrial activity. Reflecting on the significance of the partnership, Carlos Cosín, CEO of Almar Water Solutions, stated: “This award reflects the strength of our partnership with Aramco and the long‑term trust placed in Almar. The Zuluf expansion reinforces our commitment to delivering reliable, efficient water solutions for critical industrial applications while creating sustainable value for clients and stakeholders.”
Ultimately, this ambitious Zuluf expansion dramatically reinforces Almar’s thoroughly proven track record in the global market. The organisation continues to excel in delivering large-scale, highly complex industrial water infrastructure through the utilisation of innovative financing and uniquely integrated delivery models. Beyond the immediate technical achievements of the new facility, this massive investment serves to further strengthen the company's strategic positioning within the wider Middle East. By consistently providing these secure, top-tier commercial water solutions, the organisation actively and substantially supports the broader region’s ongoing energy advancements and critical industrial growth.
Almar secures US$940mn Zuluf water project expansion
Almar Water Solutions, operating prominently as a vital part of Jameel Environmental Services, has officially been awarded a monumental expansion contract.
