Some 45 participants from diverse stakeholders (including the Ministry of Environment Water and Agriculture (MEWA), Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC), Saudi Irrigation Organization (SIO), Ministry of Tourism and others) were informed about the study which will initially identify multipurpose uses of reservoirs and possibilities for private sector participation to develop and operate infrastructure (including tourism) in connection with this.
Fichtner has been contracted by SWPC to perform the study. Presentations by SWPC, MEWA and Fichtner were followed by a lively discussion amongst the stakeholders who generally welcomed the PPP initiative in the dams sector. The contract will culminate in delivery of the requisite documentation for private participation approval by the end of 2022.