Water resources are scarce in Saudi Arabia. It is a desert country lying within the continental zone where temperatures are high in summer and low in winter. It is also characterized by low annual rainfall. The scarcity of water was the reason behind many tribal conflicts until King Abdul Aziz recognized that provision of water was essential for the stability of his newly unified country. In the early 1930s, he recruited international experts to conduct geological surveys for underground water. He also decided to build dams to retain rainwater for irrigation and drinking after purification.

Under King Fahd, the need for water has increased dramatically as agriculture, industry and the population have expanded. No expense has been spared to meet demand for this most essential resource. There are currently four major programs for water provision in the Kingdom.