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Shoaiba Power Plant
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The Shoaiba Power Plant is located approximately 120 kilometers south of Jeddah on the Red Sea coast and is one of the world's largest fossil fuel-fired power stations. The facility is a vital cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's energy and water supply, consisting of several phases developed over several decades. In addition to electricity generation, Shoaiba hosts one of the largest desalination complexes in the world, providing millions of cubic meters of potable water daily to the cities of Jeddah, Mecca, and Taif. The installed electrical capacity exceeds 5,000 megawatts, contributing significantly to the stability of the national grid. The facility employs state-of-the-art Independent Water and Power Plant (IWPP) technologies to maximize efficiency through combined production. Despite the primary focus on fossil fuels, there are ongoing efforts to augment the complex with solar energy projects in the surrounding areas. Shoaiba plays a strategic role in ensuring supply security for the rapidly growing metropolitan regions in the western part of the kingdom.
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Nearby: Jeddah (77 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 1 | 2 | 8 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 6 | 20 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
This massive combined complex is a powerhouse of the Saudi economy, converting fossil fuels into enormous amounts of essential electricity. Crucially, it simultaneously operates one of the world's most impressive desalination facilities to provide freshwater to major urban centers.
Visiting
Access to this critical national infrastructure is rigorously controlled by high-level security personnel and barriers. Standard tourist access to the interior technical areas is strictly forbidden, though the facility's immense exterior presence can be witnessed from afar.
Where to view it
Passing vehicles on the nearby coastal highways along the Red Sea are afforded sweeping views of its colossal smokestacks and desalination units. Observing from a safe distance along the desert approach roads provides a clear sense of the monumental industrial scale.
Local products
The immediate vicinity around the plant is strictly dedicated to heavy industry and security perimeters, offering no public retail spaces. Visitors hoping to purchase regional Saudi goods or marine-related items will need to travel north to the bustling markets of Jeddah.
Active season
Power generation and water desalination at this monumental complex continue around the clock, functioning consistently throughout the year. The visual activity, marked by high thermal emissions and operational traffic, is present constantly during both day and night.
Nearby
Travelers often view the industrial might of this plant while journeying between the holy cities and the expansive Red Sea coastline. A drive past the facility is typically combined with visits to coastal resort areas or exploring the broader maritime infrastructure.
Geography
Facts
- Shoaiba is one of the largest combined power and desalination plants in the world.
- The total installed power capacity exceeds 5,600 megawatts.
- The desalination facility produces approximately 1.3 million cubic meters of water daily.
- The plant supplies the major cities of Jeddah, Mecca, and Taif.
- The first phase of the project was commissioned as early as the 1980s.
- Shoaiba III is an IWPP project that was completed in 2009.
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Notable places around
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Shoaiba Power Plant?
One of the largest oil and gas power plants in the region for power generation.
Is the plant publicly accessible?
No, as critical infrastructure, access is strictly prohibited.
Why is it located there?
The seaside location allows for the use of seawater for cooling and easy connectivity.
How does it supply the country?
It provides large quantities of energy for the cities and industrial plants in the province.
Are there ecological measures?
Modern filter systems are intended to minimize emissions and reduce environmental impact.
Shoaiba Power Plant: where is it located?
Shoaiba Power Plant is located in Saudi Arabia.
Shoaiba Power Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Shoaiba Power Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Shoaiba Power Plant is located approximately 120 kilometers south of Jeddah on the Red Sea coast and is one of the world's largest fossil fuel-fired power stations.
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Nearby cities
Jeddah
A modern port city on the Red Sea that traditionally serves as the gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
Mecca
The holiest city in Islam, birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad, and the destination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Ta'if
A mountain city in the Mecca Province known for its cooler climate and the production of rose water.
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Al Lith
A gateway to the Red Sea south of Jeddah, known for its diving spots and the North Corniche.
Thuwal
A historic fishing village on the Red Sea, now home to the prestigious KAUST university.
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Al Qunfudhah
A historical Red Sea port known as the 'Bride of the Red Sea', offering stunning coastal views and traditional charm.
History & landmarks
King Fahd's Fountain
This impressive fountain in Jeddah shoots seawater into the sky at a record-breaking height.
Abraj Al Bait
A massive hotel complex in Mecca featuring the world's largest clock tower, located right next to the Great Mosque.
Kaaba
The cuboid building at the center of the Great Mosque of Mecca is the most sacred site in Islam.
Jabal al-Nour
A prominent mountain near Mecca that houses the famous Cave of Hira, a site of immense spiritual significance.
Thee Ain
Thee Ain is a 400-year-old heritage stone village in Al Bahah, built on a white marble hilltop.
Al Wahbah Crater
A massive volcanic crater on the western edge of the Harrat Kishb basalt plateau, often mistaken for a meteorite crater.
Nature
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Fakieh Aquarium
The only public aquarium in Saudi Arabia showcasing the marine life of the Red Sea.
Al Shallal Theme Park
A large amusement park on the Jeddah Corniche featuring roller coasters and an ice rink.
Jeddah Corniche Parks
A kilometer-long stretch of landscaped parks running along the coast of the Red Sea.
Atallah Happy Land Park
One of the oldest amusement parks in Jeddah, featuring a wide variety of rides and games.
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Wadi Fatima
A significant valley between the cities of Mecca and Jeddah that historically served as a green lifeline for caravans.
Ain Zubaydah
A historical aqueduct system built to provide water to Mecca and pilgrims.