Saudi Innovation Challenge Targets Dam Sediment Buildup

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has launched the Innovation Challenge in Dam Sediment Management to address sediment buildup in dams across Saudi Arabia.

The initiative falls under the Saudi Innovation Grants Programme for Private Sector Challenges and invites innovators and technology firms to propose sustainable, long-term solutions to sediment accumulation. The ministry stated that the programme is intended to transform environmental challenges into development opportunities by leveraging advanced technologies to enhance water resource sustainability, in line with national water security objectives.

The challenge sets out technical and operational goals focused on improving dam storage efficiency by tackling soil and material buildup that reduces water capacity. It also seeks to extend the operational lifespan of dams through innovative maintenance approaches and to reduce costs associated with traditional dredging and upkeep.

Environmental sustainability forms a central component of the programme. The ministry is encouraging the safe and beneficial reuse of extracted sediments, including potential applications in construction materials, while aiming to minimise system disruptions linked to heavy sedimentation and maintain uninterrupted water flow.

Participation is open to local and international stakeholders, including startups and small and medium-sized enterprises specialising in environmental technologies, advanced engineering solution providers, as well as research centres and universities.