Saudi Arabian region to implement US$134.5 million water and sanitation projects

Al-Baha Region Department of Water director-general, Mohammed Al-Udhaid, said the projects would include the installation of pipelines, reservoirs and sanitation systems, as well as studies and designs for future water projects.

The Al-Baha Region, in the south of the country, is attempting to address potential water shortage issues that have affected other parts of the arid Middle East.

A recent study by Booz & Company had suggested that GCC countries would invest more than US$100bn in their water sector up until 2016 as the region attempts to overcome serious water shortage problems arising out of over-consumption and fast economic growth.

Speaking ahead of the Power + Water Middle East exhibition, to be held in Dubai in October 2012,  exhibition director Anita Mathews said, ? The water sector is a major challenge for GCC states which are among the most water scarce countries in the world.

?The problems of water shortage and water security are now being addressed and the relevant factors which influence the water resources identified.?