At Stormwater and Wastewater Conference
The second edition of the Stormwater and Wastewater Conference will be held on June 23-24, 2025, at the Jeddah Hilton.
The event is expected to bring together government officials, engineers and international experts as Saudi Arabia prepares to tackle mounting infrastructure pressures caused by rapid urbanisation and the growing effects of climate change.
The conference will align with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s national plan to modernise infrastructure and diversify its economy. Delegates will address key challenges related to flood risks and wastewater management, with a focus on developing more resilient and sustainable systems.
The event is being organised by Creative Connect and Great Minds Event Management with support from various Saudi public and technical bodies. It builds on the success of the 2023 inaugural edition, which laid a foundation for broader collaboration on water infrastructure.
As temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, cities such as Jeddah and Riyadh are likely to face greater risks from seasonal floods and water shortages. Authorities are expected to strengthen environmental planning and adopt innovative water management systems in response to these challenges.
The conference will provide a platform for exchanging ideas on stormwater drainage, wastewater treatment, and water reuse technologies. Organisers said the event will promote cooperation between public and private stakeholders to enhance operational efficiency and long-term sustainability in urban areas.
Representatives from Saudi institutions, including the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, Jeddah Municipality, the Royal Commission for AlUla and the Saudi Society of Civil Engineering, are scheduled to participate. Delegates from international technology firms and regional sustainability experts are also expected to attend.
Speakers are likely to discuss regulatory reforms, infrastructure financing, and best practices in climate adaptation and mitigation. Many of the sessions will focus on developing integrated systems that manage water scarcity while mitigating the effects of urban flooding.
Officials are expected to outline plans to increase the use of treated wastewater for non-potable purposes such as agriculture and landscaping. As freshwater resources remain constrained, water recycling will continue to play a key role in Saudi Arabia’s broader water security strategy.
A concurrent exhibition will feature technologies in water monitoring, drainage analytics and decentralised treatment systems. Many of the showcased solutions will be designed to support urban growth while reducing environmental impact.
Case studies presented by engineers and planners will explore the practical applications of new technologies. These will include drainage upgrades in western Jeddah and pilot programmes using artificial intelligence to manage wastewater networks in high-density areas.
Workshops at the conference will examine how Gulf cities can collaborate on shared water management challenges. Delegates from countries including the United Arab Emirates are expected to discuss how Saudi Arabia’s experience can inform infrastructure strategies across the region.
The UAE faces similar pressures from water scarcity and sudden storm events. Emirati representatives will likely emphasise the value of regional data-sharing, aligned policy frameworks, and joint research to address common climate risks.
Saudi authorities have identified climate adaptation as a policy priority following recent incidents of extreme weather. The country has committed to enhancing its environmental initiatives, including restoring vegetation, combating desertification, and integrating energy-efficient technologies into public infrastructure.
Officials will likely stress that strengthening water and wastewater systems is essential for sustainable economic development and national resilience. Infrastructure improvements are expected to play a vital role in protecting communities and securing natural resources in the face of environmental uncertainty.
The forum will also provide an opportunity to examine public-private partnership models. Sessions will explore the legal and financial mechanisms necessary to expedite infrastructure development through private investment.
While no major announcements are expected at the conference, organisers said feedback gathered during discussions will help shape upcoming policy decisions. Follow-up activities could include tenders, pilot projects, and trials of emerging technologies.
Register here: https://stormwaterandwastewaterksa.com/#register
Middle East News 247 is a Media Partner of the Stormwater and Wastewater Conference 2025.
Image: As temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, cities are likely to face greater risks from seasonal floods and water shortages. Credit: Dibakar Roy
