Is Makkah Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, is treated and generally meets national safety standards for potable water. It undergoes chlorination and filtration.
However, many residents and visitors prefer bottled water due to taste and possible contamination in local distribution systems. Municipal pipes can affect water quality.
For health safety, especially for non-locals, drinking bottled or properly boiled water is commonly recommended despite official safety assurances.
Last checked: 2025-08-25
Source of Water in Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Makkah's tap water primarily comes from desalinated seawater processed by large-scale desalination plants along the Red Sea coast.
Additional sources include treated groundwater extracted from deep wells to supplement water supply during high demand periods.
Water is then transported via pipelines to Makkah, where it undergoes further treatment before distribution to consumers.
Makkah Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Makkah provide treated water, generally meeting safety standards set by local authorities. Maintenance varies by location.
Contamination risks exist if fountains are poorly maintained or exposed to environmental pollutants. Users should assess cleanliness before use.
For cautious consumption, many prefer bottled water or personal water bottles, especially for travelers or those with sensitive health conditions.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Makkah. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.
Nearby Places
(769 km)About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.