Status of wastewater treatment and reuse in Saudi Arabia and its forecasting for the year 2035

Abstract Water scarcity poses a significant challenge in Saudi Arabia, exacerbated by its arid climate and limited freshwater resources. In response to this, wastewater treatment and reuse have emerged as critical strategies for achieving sustainable water management. This study offers an in-depth analysis of the current state of wastewater treatment and reuse in Saudi Arabia, focusing on existing infrastructure, treatment technologies, and reuse practices across various sectors, including agriculture, industry, and municipal applications. To predict the future potential of wastewater treatment and reuse, the study employs advanced statistical techniques and regression models, projecting the situation in 2035. The results indicate a substantial increase of 43.6% in both treated wastewater production and its reuse by 2035. To ensure the robustness of these forecasts, the study employs ANOVA, normal distribution and sensitivity analysis, which confirm the reliability of the proposed model and its ability to provide accurate predictions. The findings of this research suggest that wastewater reuse could play a vital role in alleviating the Kingdom’s water scarcity challenges and improving overall water security. However, for this potential to be fully realized, challenges related to infrastructure development, public acceptance, and the creation of supportive policy frameworks must be addressed. This study highlights the importance of integrating wastewater reuse into long-term water resource planning to meet future demands. It offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders, providing actionable recommendations to guide the sustainable management of water resources in Saudi Arabia by 2035.