The 2nd edition of the Stormwater & Wastewater Conference 2025 officially opened today at the Jeddah Hilton, convening government officials, global technology innovators, and leading industry experts to drive the development of resilient and sustainable water infrastructure systems across the Kingdom in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
The conference commenced with opening remarks from Great Minds Group, followed by an address from Conference Chairperson Nariba Gittens, Associate Director at WSP, who emphasized the pressing need for innovative and collaborative approaches to modernize stormwater and wastewater systems across the region.
In the keynote session, Eng. Hazem Ibrahim, Vice President of the Saudi Society of Civil Engineering, underscored the urgency of shifting from traditional drainage models to integrated, nature-based solutions capable of supporting rapid urban expansion while enhancing climate resilience.
A thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Dr. Imad Abed Alrahim, a consultant for the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing from AECOM, focused on the strategic importance of data-driven infrastructure improvements and sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) in mitigating flood risks and boosting water management efficiency. "Good progress has been done in infrastructure projects in KSA, where although the events have been more serious, however the damage and losses have been lower due to the great work being done by the different organizations in KSA," he remarked. He further emphasized, "The integration of green infrastructure is not an option—it is essential to the future of urban development."
The event showcases the latest technologies and solutions from leading international companies committed to revolutionizing water infrastructure in the Kingdom. Fugro is presenting advanced geotechnical and site investigation solutions that deliver critical data insights for optimizing flood control and drainage projects in complex urban environments.
Tamimi Group & TCC are demonstrating their expertise in delivering large-scale water and civil infrastructure projects designed to meet the growing demands of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly urbanizing cities.
KSB is exhibiting its newest high-performance pumps and valves engineered to improve operational reliability and energy efficiency across wastewater treatment and stormwater management facilities.
Polypipe Middle East is introducing sustainable drainage solutions featuring smart water management systems and permeable piping technologies developed to reduce runoff and promote water reuse in urban landscapes.
Alwasail, IDOM, and other participants are unveiling an array of pipe systems, engineering services, and innovative design technologies that support the expansion of drainage and wastewater networks for both urban and industrial applications.
Autodesk is showcasing state-of-the-art digital modeling platforms that facilitate flood risk assessment, drainage system design, and comprehensive infrastructure lifecycle management, empowering urban planners with data-driven tools to optimize decision-making processes.
Grundfos is presenting energy-efficient pump technologies specifically designed for wastewater and stormwater handling, delivering superior performance while minimizing environmental impact.
The exhibition floor is active with prominent companies such as Taldeen, Hydrofence, Torishima, Detectronic, BMS Gharbalah, Aravia, and WT Burden. These exhibitors are introducing advanced solutions in filtration systems, flood defense barriers, real-time water quality monitoring, and high-performance piping materials engineered for the Gulf region’s unique environmental conditions.
Henkel and AVR are also contributing their specialized expertise in industrial sealing, protective technologies, and control systems designed for modern water utility applications.
The opening day concluded with insightful presentations on circular water management strategies, advanced flood modeling techniques, and sustainable urban water solutions, setting the stage for deeper technical sessions and collaborative discussions on day two.