Saudi Arabia steps up global engagement ahead of Riyadh World Water Forum 2027

Saudi Arabia has emphasized that hosting the 11th World Water Forum in Riyadh in 2027 will be a key milestone for strengthening international cooperation in the water sector and accelerating the shift from pledges and initiatives to practical solutions that contribute to achieving and sustaining water security.

This was highlighted during the participation of Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani, Deputy Minister for Water at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, in a panel discussion at the Euro-Mediterranean Water Forum held in Rome, Italy, attended by ministers, officials, and international experts in the water sector.

Al-Shaibani explained that the Kingdom is preparing to host the forum from March 21 to 25, 2027, under the theme "Action for a Better Tomorrow," with the aim of strengthening international partnerships, supporting actionable solutions, and linking global commitments to clear programs with measurable impacts and trackable results.

He noted the importance of building on the outcomes of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference to maintain international momentum toward the Riyadh forum and to support coordination among governments, international organizations, the private sector, and the scientific and civil communities.

Transformations in Saudi Arabia's water sector

The Deputy Minister reviewed the transformations in the Kingdom's water sector under Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Water Strategy, highlighting achievements in water supply, desalination, transport and storage, reuse of treated water, as well as governance development and increased private sector participation.

Forum themes and international participation

Al-Shaibani noted that the Riyadh forum will address six main themes and more than 30 topics, including water security, water financing, water for people and nature, water governance and diplomacy, innovation, and the value of water. The event is expected to attract over 20,000 participants from more than 150 countries.

He stressed that the Kingdom is keen to ensure the forum's preparatory process is inclusive of all stakeholders and reflects the needs of different regions and countries, while promoting the participation of youth, academic institutions, the private sector, international organizations, and basin organizations.

In conclusion, Al-Shaibani called on the international community to actively contribute to the forum's preparations and to share initiatives, expertise, and partnerships that support practical and sustainable outcomes. He affirmed that the Kingdom looks forward to making the forum a global platform for joint action toward a more secure and sustainable water future.

It is worth noting that Saudi Arabia's participation in the Euro-Mediterranean Water Forum is part of its efforts to enhance international water cooperation and diplomacy and to promote its hosting of the 11th World Water Forum, which will be held in Riyadh in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and the World Water Council.