Taif, March 03, 2025 – Taif Governorate, located in the western region of Saudi Arabia, has long been renowned for its ancient and sophisticated water management systems, which include springs, dams, and wells. These systems reflect the region’s historical and ongoing efforts to manage water resources, ensuring that water supply needs are met even in the challenging terrain of the Sarawat Mountains. With an innovative approach to managing its water supply, Taif has been able to transport water from the depths of the earth to the peaks of its mountainous landscape using cutting-edge technologies.
For over 120 years, Taif has distinguished itself as a model of water management and irrigation. Its unique water supply system, which evolved through various phases, has been pivotal in supporting the growth and prosperity of the region. Since the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the late King Abdulaziz, Taif has experienced significant infrastructural and developmental advancements, becoming one of the Kingdom's key sources of water. Today, the city remains a vital foundation for the Kingdom’s comprehensive and sustainable water system.
The governorate of Taif, alongside Maysan Governorate, benefits from an impressive 97% coverage of water networks and large dams, which serve both residents and the agricultural sector. This extensive network ensures a reliable and continuous supply of water, supporting both urban life and farming activities in the region. Notably, Taif is home to some of the Kingdom’s oldest dams, many of which date back to the Umayyad era, such as the Ekrimah Dam, which remains an enduring symbol of the region’s historical and technological advancements.
Historian Issa Al-Qasir, in a statement to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), emphasized that Taif holds a treasure trove of ancient water-related structures, many of which have been integral to sustaining life and agriculture in the region for centuries. Al-Qasir noted that the city is home to around 70 dams, many of which feature inscriptions, historical markings, and religious dates that speak to the deep historical significance of these structures. These dams, which have preserved water, protected properties, and supported agricultural activities, serve as a testament to the ingenuity of the people who built them.
One of the most remarkable of these ancient dams, according to Al-Qasir, was constructed before the Islamic era and is adorned with Kufic Arabic inscriptions carved into its stones. The dam, which measures 200 meters in length and 10 meters in width, is a prime example of the advanced engineering and architectural capabilities of the time. It stands as an impressive model of water management, not only serving as a functional structure but also as a piece of architectural history that reflects the sophisticated craftsmanship of the era.
The history of water management in Taif is a reflection of the region’s ability to adapt and innovate to meet its needs. The ancient dams, some of which continue to function today, provide a glimpse into the resourcefulness and resilience of past generations. They also highlight the importance of preserving and learning from these structures as modern water management practices continue to evolve.
Taif’s legacy in water management, from its historical systems to its modern-day infrastructure, underscores the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable water use. As the region continues to grow and develop, the continued importance of these historical systems, alongside new technologies, ensures that water security will remain a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s long-term strategy.
