Saudi Arabia Tops Global Rankings in Water Safety Standards, Reduces Drowning Deaths
The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture announced that Saudi Arabia now leads the world in meeting the highest standards of water safety and drowning prevention, following the adoption of the National Drowning Prevention Policy. The Kingdom achieved a 17% reduction in drowning deaths, reflecting the effectiveness of its national programs to enhance public safety and generate positive economic and social impact.
The announcement came during a workshop organized by the ministry to mark World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on July 25. The initiative was launched by the Public Health Authority (Weqaya), with the participation of several government agencies. The ministry supported the event through awareness programs, internal activities, and digital campaigns aimed at promoting safe behaviors in aquatic environments and implementing preventive policies to protect lives.
The workshop highlighted that the Kingdom’s global leadership in water safety standards was the result of 12 integrated national initiatives aimed at drowning prevention. The initiatives helped the Kingdom avoid an estimated economic burden exceeding SAR800 million, underscoring the value of preventive policies and national investment.
The ministry added that the National Drowning Prevention Policy seeks to develop a comprehensive water safety framework through a unified national strategy focused on safeguarding lives across all water bodies in the Kingdom. The policy is based on local regulations and aligned with international treaties, and it incorporates the best global practices tailored to the Kingdom’s environmental and geographical characteristics.
The workshop stressed that the tangible reduction in drowning incidents and the avoidance of economic burdens were made possible through coordinated national efforts, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and the Kingdom’s commitment to building a sustainable and effective water safety system. The efforts align with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals to protect lives and enhance quality of life.
