Saudi Arabia Expands Cloud Seeding Program to Increase Rainfall and Water Resources
Saudi Arabia is running a Regional Cloud Seeding Program to increase rainfall in the Kingdom. Currently, the program works in six main regions: Riyadh, Qassim, Hail, Makkah, Al-Baha, and Asir. The plan is to expand gradually to all regions based on climate studies and rainfall patterns.
What is cloud seeding?
Cloud seeding is a technology that helps produce more rain. Special aircraft release safe, eco-friendly materials into specific clouds. These materials trigger physical changes inside the clouds, making them release more rain in targeted areas. Recommend: The Ministry of Justice in Saudi Arabia launches e-translation services through Taqadhi
Could you please explain the reasons behind Saudi Arabia's actions?
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the program as part of Vision 2030 and the Middle East Green Initiative. Its goals are
➤ Increase rainfall and water resources.
➤ Reduce drought and desertification.
➤ Support farming and vegetation growth.
➤ Improve the environment and fight climate change.
Progress so far
✅ The first official program started in 2022, although experiments began as early as 1986.
✅ Since the launch, we have conducted about 752 flights (1,879 hours) and 51 research flights (169 hours).
✅ A recent operation in Ramah governorate showed positive results with improved cloud water content. Recommend: Saudi Arabia now allows to use Digital ID to own property for foreigners
Future plans
🔹 Saudi Arabia is developing local knowledge, aircraft, and new technologies to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
🔹 Training programs are being set up for Saudi experts in cloud seeding.
🔹 Different methods will be used depending on the season, since summer clouds are warmer and need other techniques compared to winter clouds.
Cloud seeding is considered a safe, affordable, and flexible solution to improve water security in the Kingdom while supporting long-term environmental goals. See Also: Saudi new rules allows foreign investors to own up to 49% of Saudi companies
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