Saudi Abunayyan Holding Proposes Algerian Desalination, Industrial Centers

Algeria's Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, recently received Turki bin Saeed Al-Amri, CEO of Saudi Abunayyan Holding, at the Ministry's headquarters. The meeting, which included Saudi Ambassador Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Bassiri and Lahcen Badah, CEO of the Algerian Water Desalination Company, centered on concrete proposals to expand Abunayyan Holding's investment and industrial footprint within Algeria. This engagement underscores the robust bilateral cooperation between Algeria and Saudi Arabia, building upon previous discussions concerning partnership and investment opportunities in seawater desalination and related industrial equipment.

During the discussions, Abunayyan Holding presented new initiatives, notably the establishment of an industrial center dedicated to assembly and maintenance services for water desalination equipment. This center aims to provide local technical and logistical support, which is critical for the sustainability of strategic projects. Furthermore, the Saudi group expressed its intent to establish a branch of its Energy and Water Academy in Algeria. This academy would focus on transferring knowledge and developing local capabilities in the management and operation of desalination plants, complementing broader efforts to facilitate technology transfer and localize the production of essential components, including membranes and core equipment.

Minister Arkab welcomed these proposals, highlighting their alignment with the Algerian government's strategic objectives. These national priorities include increasing local integration rates, localizing vital industries, and creating stable employment opportunities. The Minister affirmed the sector's readiness, through the Algerian Water Desalination Company and relevant supervisory bodies, to provide the necessary facilities and ensure favorable conditions for the successful implementation of these strategic partnerships and projects.