Is Riyadh Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is treated and generally meets national safety standards set by the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

However, due to the region's desalination reliance and distribution system, some residents prefer bottled or filtered water for taste and potential contamination concerns.

For visitors or sensitive individuals, using bottled water is advisable. Local authorities regularly monitor water quality to ensure safety for the public.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

Saudi Arabia is ranked as number 67 globally with a score of 64% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh's main tap water source is desalinated seawater from the Arabian Gulf, treated at advanced desalination plants.

Additional water comes from underground groundwater wells, which supplement the supply but are limited due to over-extraction concerns.

Treated wastewater is also increasingly reused for non-potable purposes, helping conserve freshwater resources in the region.

Riyadh Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Riyadh are generally maintained by local authorities to meet safety and hygiene standards.

However, due to potential sanitation issues, many people prefer bottled or personal water containers for drinking.

Visitors and sensitive individuals should exercise caution and consider using bottled water to avoid potential health risks.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Riyadh. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

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.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Riyadh is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.