Saudi Arabia Leads Globally in Water Safety Standards

Saudi Arabia has ranked first globally in water safety and drowning prevention standards, following the implementation of a comprehensive national strategy. The achievement comes in the wake of the adoption of the National Policy for Drowning Prevention, which has led to a 17% reduction in drowning deaths across the Kingdom.

The policy was enacted through 12 integrated national initiatives developed by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture. These initiatives align with broader preventive frameworks and strategic investments in national programs designed to enhance public health and safety. In addition to saving lives, the measures are estimated to have prevented over SAR 800 million in economic losses, underscoring the societal and financial impact of the country’s water safety efforts.

Saudi Arabia’s approach is grounded in both domestic legislation and international agreements, with best global practices adapted to reflect the Kingdom’s specific environmental and geographic context. A key component of the strategy is the creation of a sustainable and effective national system for water safety.