Saudi Arabia completes over 200 km of stormwater drainage networks in first half of 2026
RIYADH — The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing completed more than 200 kilometers of stormwater drainage networks across several cities and regions during the first half of 2026.The ministry said approximately 200.3 kilometers of drainage networks were completed during the period, including more than 115 kilometers of main networks and around 85 kilometers of secondary networks.The pace of construction averaged more than one kilometer per day during the first six months of the year, reflecting the scale of infrastructure development underway across Saudi cities.The projects are designed to increase cities’ capacity to manage rainfall more efficiently, improve road safety and traffic flow, reduce the impact of water accumulation, protect public facilities and municipal assets, and ensure the continuity of services during adverse weather conditions.The completed works also included components aimed at mitigating flood risks, with more than 10.2 kilometers of box culverts and around 4.9 kilometers of stormwater and flood drainage channels constructed.A total of 24 retaining walls were also completed as part of efforts to strengthen the integrated drainage system and protect areas and facilities exposed to rainfall and flood risks.More than 87,500 cubic meters of reinforced concrete were used in the construction of box culverts, drainage channels and retaining walls, the ministry said.Working with municipalities and local authorities, the ministry said infrastructure projects are being prioritized according to the urban development patterns, rainfall conditions and specific requirements of individual cities.The approach aims to direct resources toward priority locations, improve the efficiency of existing infrastructure and expand drainage networks in line with urban growth.The projects form part of a broader drive to develop municipal infrastructure and build cities that are more resilient and better prepared to cope with heavy rainfall while protecting residents, public facilities and other assets.The ministry said it will continue implementing and developing stormwater drainage and flood mitigation projects across the Kingdom to improve urban resilience and provide safer, more efficient and sustainable cities.