Concurrent with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture extending the deadline for obtaining licenses for well water use for various purposes by an additional year, the ministry reaffirmed the controls regulating groundwater use, which included 19 items to regulate usage, most notably obtaining a systematic license before using any well, along with adherence to technical and regulatory requirements aimed at protecting water resources and enhancing their sustainability. Data Update The controls include all beneficiaries of well water use, namely individuals, government entities, the business sector, and the non-profit sector, with priority given to water allocation for basic human needs, followed by uses for livestock watering, agricultural, urban, and industrial activities, achieving environmental balance and preserving water resources. The controls require well owners to use water only for the licensed purpose, and to submit a new license application when changing the use activity or adding another purpose. They also require updating the license data after completing the drilling, deepening, or cleaning of the well, and submitting a renewal application three months before the license expires. The license duration is two years, renewable. Water-Saving Systems The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture emphasized the necessity of adhering to the quantities specified in the license, rationalizing water consumption using water-saving means and systems, and prohibiting any practices that could harm or pollute groundwater or disrupt its natural structure. Additionally, it forbids discharging waste into wells, and requires immediate notification of the ministry upon discovering any contaminants that necessitate stopping the well's use. The controls also authorize ministry teams to monitor the uses of groundwater sources and verify compliance with requirements, obligating licensees to present the license upon request, and transfer it to the new owner within 90 days when the property containing a licensed well is transferred, or issue a new license if the well was not previously licensed. Enhancing Sustainability The extension of the deadline aims to provide a greater opportunity for beneficiaries to complete licensing procedures, thereby contributing to the regulation of groundwater use, improving management efficiency, and enhancing sustainability in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

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