Gulf News reported that Saudi Arabia, the world's largest desalinated water producer, plans to raise water prices for non residential users.

Mr Loay Al Mussalam CEO of National Water Co said that higher prices will be applied to commercial buildings, industries, government, schools and hospitals. He added that Saudi regulators are discussing the timing and structure of the tariffs.

NCB Capital said in a report that Saudi Arabia wants to raise prices to encourage water conservation. The kingdom needs SAR 124.9 billion in investments in desalination and water recycling plants to meet water demand.

According to data provided by National Water, under the current tariff system, water costs per month are SAR 0.1 for 1-50 cubic metres, SAR 0.15 for 50-100 cubic metres and SAR 6 for more than 300 cubic metres.

Mr Al Mussalam said "National Water will focus on tariff adjustments for the non domestic or non residential sector, without affecting the domestic or residential sector."

(Sourced from www.gulfnews.com)