The tap water in Saudi Arabia is safe and doesn’t require any extra filtering.
Saudi Arabia relies heavily on desalination and advanced purification methods. While the taste may vary due to mineral content, the water meets safety standards.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ✅ Yes, it’s safe to drink Common Risks: Minimal — high quality standards Brush Teeth? ✅ Yes, no concerns Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ✅ Yes, safe to use tap water Use Ice in Drinks? ✅ Yes, generally safe in restaurants Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ❌ No, not necessary
Source: CDC Travelers’ Health, WHO water safety reports, and regional public health agencies.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
A filter bottle doesn’t just help you drink safely—it gives you peace of mind wherever you are. From rural villages to airport bathrooms, it lets you refill without worry. Based on user reviews, independent testing, and our own research, we’ve highlighted a few options that consistently perform well and are easy to travel with. You’ll find them listed below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Even in countries where tap water is considered safe, it’s still possible for travelers to experience mild digestive issues. Your body may not be used to the mineral composition, local bacteria (even the harmless kind), or differences in water treatment methods.
Here are a few minor risks and factors worth noting:
- Mineral levels may be higher or different than you’re used to, which can cause temporary discomfort for some travelers.
- Aged infrastructure in older cities or hotels could affect water clarity or taste, even if the water itself is safe.
- Filtered water may still be used in restaurants, especially for ice or washing produce, as an extra precaution.
- Public water systems vary by region; tap water in cities is typically highly regulated, while rural areas may be more variable.
- Travel fatigue or a change in diet can also affect how your body reacts to new water sources — not necessarily the water itself.
In general, the health risks are low in countries with safe tap water, but it’s still smart to be aware of local conditions and trust your own comfort level.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Saudi Arabia, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Saudi Arabia
In many Saudi Arabian homes, tap water is stored in rooftop tanks, which are regularly refilled by tanker trucks. Most people boil or filter this water before drinking it. In restaurants, bottled water is typically served by default; tap water is only available upon request.
Saudi Arabia is a global leader in desalination technology. In modern cities like Neom, high-tech facilities powered by renewable energy are even repurposing leftover brine into useful materials. In some regions, desalinated water is blended with brackish groundwater to balance mineral content.
The country is also innovating in agriculture—using closed-loop irrigation systems and saltwater farming to conserve water during extreme drought. During festivals or large events, mobile purification systems are sometimes deployed.
FAQs About Tap Water in Saudi Arabia
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
No worries—tap water in Saudi Arabia meets health standards and is safe for all daily hygiene.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Unless you have specific skin sensitivities, tap water here is perfectly okay for washing.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
Whether it’s from a hotel, restaurant, or bar, ice is safe to use.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
There’s no risk in showering with tap water—it’s fully treated.
Want to avoid unknown minerals or chlorine while you’re abroad? A travel-size shower filter might be worth it. It attaches in seconds—unless the showerhead’s built into the wall, which unfortunately means you’re out of luck. Many travelers swear by this one. Click here to view the latest deal.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
The water is treated and safe for all kitchen uses, including rinsing raw foods.
Is bottled water expensive in Saudi Arabia?
It’s reasonably priced, but the tap water is great, so you can skip it.
Saudi Arabia is frequently paired with regional travel to Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, or Yemen. Be sure to review water availability across your route.