The Saudi Water Authority has adopted new regulations allowing real estate developers to implement water and sewage network connections for properties during the development phase, marking a significant step toward improving infrastructure planning and service efficiency across the Kingdom.
The decision reflects the authority’s broader strategy to streamline procedures, enhance coordination with developers, and ensure that utility services are integrated early in project execution rather than added after completion.
With this move, Saudi Water Authority aims to prevent repeated post-construction excavations that often cause traffic disruptions, safety risks, and damage to newly paved roads. By enabling developers to complete connections within property boundaries during construction, the regulation enhances safety, eliminates duplicate work, reduces costs, and preserves the appearance of residential neighborhoods.
Under the new regulation, the cost of connecting water service is set at $266.67 (SAR1,000) per meter. The fee applies provided the developer completes the connection works within property boundaries during the development phase, in early coordination with the designated service provider. This structured pricing model offers clarity and cost predictability for investors and property owners, while ensuring compliance with approved technical standards.
The Saudi Water Authority clarified that the regulation is part of a broader framework governing water and sewage service delivery to accredited urban plans and development projects. It seeks to standardize procedures nationwide, enhance service reliability, and accelerate project timelines. By limiting excavation in residential areas, the measure is expected to reduce operational costs, curb maintenance needs, and ease long-term pressure on infrastructure.
The regulation is also set to maximize returns on infrastructure investments by reducing recurring disruptions and safeguarding asset integrity. Fewer interventions will extend network lifespan, optimize resource use, and improve spending efficiency, enhancing service quality and residents’ quality of life.
This step aligns with the Saudi Water Authority’s development path since it began operations in May 2024. It reflects the authority’s focus on stronger governance, transparency, and sustainability in the water sector, while advancing Saudi Vision 2030 goals of modern infrastructure, efficient public services, and sustainable urban growth across the Kingdom.
