RIYADH: Water demand in Saudi Arabia rises significantly during Ramadan as households, mosques and restaurants increase consumption around iftar and suhoor.
Last year, around 10 million cubic meters of water per day were distributed across the Kingdom during the holy month. This year, the National Water Company said it was planning to distribute about 11 million cubic meters of water daily across the Kingdom during Ramadan.
The company said it had prepared thoroughly to ensure reliability and continuity of supply. Experts say the seasonal demand highlights the close relationship between water production and energy use in Saudi Arabia, where most drinking water is produced through desalination.
“Ramadan intensifies both energy and water demand simultaneously ... when water use spikes, energy systems must also ramp up to supply and distribute that water,” Ahmed Al-Nashrey, environmental and sustainability engineer at Saudi Aramco Base Oil Company Luberef, told Arab News.
Demand patterns also shift during Ramadan as households adjust their daily routines.
