Saudi Arabia fines up to SR200,000 for water misuse

Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations to penalize water misuse, with fines reaching up to 200,000 Saudi riyals. These measures are part of efforts by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture to promote water conservation across various sectors. The regulations cover five key areas: urban, agricultural, industrial, service, and general violations. In urban settings, fines can include SR10,000 for using inefficient plumbing fixtures. Random violations, like tampering with water-saving components or allowing water wastage, could lead to penalties of up to SR50,000. The most serious offense is using drinking water tanks for non-drinking purposes, which may incur the maximum fine. In agriculture, failing to meet water licensing requirements can attract fines of up to SR100,000. Using inefficient irrigation systems might cost up to SR20,000. For the industrial sector, exceeding water usage limits can also result in fines of up to SR200,000. General violations can carry smaller fines, like SR5,000 for not submitting required data to the National Center for Water Efficiency. Service providers must also comply; failing to implement required water efficiency assessments could lead to penalties up to SR200,000.