Saudi Arabia’s National Water Company has opened bidding for Phase 1 of the Arafat Main Distribution Water Pipelines and Operational Storage Project in Makkah. This move aims to boost water supply in key districts, with tenders due by mid-September 2025 and work set to finish by late 2027.
Project Details and Scope
The tender focuses on building about 13 kilometers of main pipelines. These lines will range from 800 millimeters to 3,000 millimeters in diameter. They target Arafat areas 1, 6, and 7 to improve water flow and storage.
This phase includes engineering, procurement, and construction work. It supports the growing need for reliable water in the region. Officials expect the project to handle increased demand during peak times like the Hajj pilgrimage.
The National Water Company issued the tender on July 20, 2025. Bids close on September 18, 2025. Awarding the contract should happen by December 2025. Completion is planned for the third quarter of 2027.
Why This Matters for Makkah
Makkah faces high water needs due to millions of pilgrims each year. Arafat is a vital spot during Hajj, where crowds gather. Better pipelines will ensure steady supply and reduce shortages.
Saudi Arabia invests heavily in water infrastructure. The kingdom leads the world in desalination and plans billions in new projects. This tender fits into a larger push for sustainable water systems.
Recent efforts include similar upgrades in nearby areas. For example, projects in Taif and other spots have added millions of cubic meters of capacity. These steps help meet Vision 2030 goals for resource management.
Timeline and Bidding Process
Interested firms must submit detailed proposals by the deadline. The process follows strict rules to pick the best contractor. Past projects show that such tenders often attract global players with expertise in large-scale water works.
Here is a quick overview of key dates:
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Tender Issued | July 20, 2025 |
| Bids Due | September 18, 2025 |
| Contract Award | December 2025 |
| Project Completion | Q3 2027 |
This schedule allows time for thorough reviews. It also aligns with seasonal demands in the region.
The project budget remains under wraps for now. But similar efforts have cost hundreds of millions. This one builds on a history of successful water transmissions in the area.
Officials stress the need for quality and speed. Delays could affect pilgrimage seasons. Winning bidders will work closely with local teams.
Broader Impact on Saudi Water Sector
Saudi Arabia pumps billions into water projects each year. The National Water Company leads with over 1,400 initiatives worth more than 100 billion riyals. These cover desalination, transmission, and treatment.
Key benefits include:
- Stronger supply chains for urban and rural spots.
- Reduced waste through efficient networks.
- Support for economic growth in tourism and industry.
Recent news shows the company starting 1.3 billion dollar projects in other regions. These include sewage and efficiency upgrades. The Arafat effort adds to this momentum.
Experts predict more tenders soon. The focus is on tech like smart monitoring to cut leaks. This helps save water in a dry climate.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Building in Makkah brings unique hurdles. Terrain and crowds during events complicate work. Contractors must plan around these to avoid disruptions.
Climate change adds pressure. Hotter weather increases water use. Projects like this aim to build resilience.
Looking ahead, Phase 2 could expand to more areas. Success here might speed up other plans. The kingdom eyes full coverage by 2030.
This tender signals strong commitment to infrastructure. It promises better living for residents and visitors.
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