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Privatization of water-supply services in Saudi Arabia: A unique experience

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  • Ouda, Omar K.M.
  • Al-Waked, Rafat F.
  • Alshehri, Abdulrahman A.

Abstract

Water-supply services worldwide experienced a wave of privatization over the last three decades, with majority of documented cases deemed failures. This paper reviews the Saudi water-supply service privatization initiative in the context of international privatization models and industry practices. The study shows that the Saudi model is unique in both structure and performance. It concludes that the model is a successful one to date and could be implemented in countries having a similar socio-economic structure. However, the long-term performance and sustainability of the model are inconclusive and need careful assessment based on financial and technical criteria.

Suggested Citation

  • Ouda, Omar K.M. & Al-Waked, Rafat F. & Alshehri, Abdulrahman A., 2014. "Privatization of water-supply services in Saudi Arabia: A unique experience," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 31(C), pages 107-113.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:juipol:v:31:y:2014:i:c:p:107-113
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jup.2014.10.003
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Tawfik, Mohamed & Nassif, Marie-Helene & Mahjoub, O. & Mahmoud, A. E. D. & Kassab, G. & Alomair, M. & Hoogesteger, J., 2022. "Water reuse policy and institutional development in MENA: case studies from Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia," IWMI Books, Reports H051738, International Water Management Institute.
    3. Goh, Kim Huat & See, Kok Fong, 2021. "Measuring the productivity growth of Malaysia's water sector: Implications for regulatory reform," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 71(C).
    4. Gazzeh, Karim & Abubakar, Ismaila Rimi, 2018. "Regional disparity in access to basic public services in Saudi Arabia: A sustainability challenge," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 52(C), pages 70-80.
    5. Curran, Franziska & Smart, Simon & Lacey, Justine & Greig, Chris & Lant, Paul, 2018. "Learning from experience in the water sector to improve access to energy services," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 51(C), pages 41-50.

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