Saudi Arabia Kicks off Implementation of World’s Largest Eco-friendly Water Osmosis System

The Governor of the Saudi Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC), Eng. Abdullah Al-Abdul Karim, addresses the Global Water Summit in Madrid. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Governor of the Saudi Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC), Eng. Abdullah Al-Abdul Karim, addresses the Global Water Summit in Madrid. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi Arabia Kicks off Implementation of World’s Largest Eco-friendly Water Osmosis System

The Governor of the Saudi Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC), Eng. Abdullah Al-Abdul Karim, addresses the Global Water Summit in Madrid. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Governor of the Saudi Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC), Eng. Abdullah Al-Abdul Karim, addresses the Global Water Summit in Madrid. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

The Governor of the Saudi Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC), Eng. Abdullah Al-Abdul Karim, said that work has begun to create the world’s largest environmentally friendly water osmosis system.

The Saudi official revealed the Kingdom’s aspirations to find solutions to the risks that threaten humanity, especially the increasing water demand. His comments came during a speech at the opening of the Global Water Summit, which kicked off on Wednesday in Madrid.

Al-Abdul Karim said that by 2024, the Saudi water desalination system would achieve a reduction in carbon emissions equivalent to 34 million tons annually, as part of its contribution to the goals of Vision 2030 and in line with the Saudi Green Initiative, through the implementation of the highest and best international standards in all its production systems.

The SWCC governor stressed that the Kingdom has long resorted to innovative solutions to protect the environment, pointing to the first seawater desalination project that dates back to 1978, which used environmentally friendly reverse osmosis techniques, with a capacity of 12 thousand of desalinated water per day.

He also noted that the Kingdom was deploying “bold and continuous efforts” to employ environmentally friendly technologies in production systems, with the aim to drastically reduce carbon emissions.

“We have already started to build our latest production system using environmentally friendly reverse osmosis techniques, with a production capacity of one million cubic meters of desalinated water per day. It will be the largest in the world in production capacity and the lowest in energy consumption,” Al-Abdul Karim told the summit in Madrid.

He added: “We must work hand in hand with equipment manufacturers to find engineering solutions based on desalination expertise in order to ensure a better global future for the desalinated water industry and make it have a positive impact on the environment.”



Riyadh to Host 3rd Edition of Saudi Tourism Forum Under the Slogan ‘To Discover’

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Riyadh to Host 3rd Edition of Saudi Tourism Forum Under the Slogan ‘To Discover’

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Riyadh is set to host the third edition of the Saudi Tourism Forum from January 7 to 9 at Roshn Front.

Organized in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Development Fund, the event will run under the theme "To Discover."

This year’s forum serves as a dynamic platform to highlight new and unique tourist destinations across the Kingdom, offering visitors innovative experiences while showcasing Saudi Arabia’s diverse tourism potential. With over 100 exhibitors, the forum provides an expansive space to explore the latest developments in the tourism sector, spotlight major investment projects, and foster skill development and partnerships to drive tourism growth.

Chief Executive Officer of 4M Event and Chairman of the Forum’s Organizing Committee Eng. Hamza Nasser emphasized the forum’s role in advancing collaboration within the tourism sector. "Through the forum, we aim to promote the beauty of Saudi tourist destinations, enhance cooperation among stakeholders, and raise awareness about investment and development opportunities. This aligns with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030,” he said.
Since its inception, the Saudi Tourism Forum has significantly advanced efforts to promote the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage and distinctive tourist sites. Supported by prominent partners and sponsors, the event underscores a shared commitment to developing this vital sector.
The program will feature a variety of seminars and workshops, offering insights into the latest trends and developments in tourism. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with keynote speakers, decision-makers, and industry professionals, enhancing their skills and knowledge.
The forum is expected to attract a diverse audience, including business leaders, investors, officials, and dignitaries, creating fertile ground for collaboration and partnerships.