Meshal Almutairi

(he/him)

Research

My research focuses on smart water governance in arid, high-tech urban environments, with NEOM in Saudi Arabia as a case study. I explore how artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies can be integrated into water management systems to improve efficiency, transparency, and equity. I am particularly interested in the intersection of political ecology, sustainable urban development, and emerging technologies.

Current Project
My PhD project aims to design a predictive and accountable water governance framework that aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. By combining AI-driven predictive analytics with blockchain-enabled transparency, my research seeks to address water scarcity challenges and support resilient, zero-carbon urban development in arid regions.

Why This Research Matters
Water scarcity is one of the most pressing environmental issues in arid regions worldwide. Traditional water governance approaches are often reactive and fragmented. By developing innovative frameworks that integrate advanced technologies with equitable governance principles, my research aims to contribute to sustainable solutions for water security and urban resilience in the face of climate change.

Thesis

AI-Governed Predictive Governance and Blockchain-Enabled Accountability for Sustainable Water Management in NEOM: A Framework for Zero Carbon Cities

The purpose of my thesis is to design an innovative governance framework for sustainable water management in arid, high-tech urban environments, using NEOM in Saudi Arabia as a case study. My research explores how artificial intelligence can enable predictive planning and how blockchain can enhance transparency and accountability in water governance.

By integrating technical and socio-political perspectives, my work aims to develop a governance model that ensures efficient, equitable, and resilient water systems aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and global sustainability goals. The research seeks to contribute new insights into combining advanced technologies with sustainable urban policy to address water scarcity challenges in arid regions.

Biography

I am currently pursuing a PhD at Cardiff University, where my research focuses on developing innovative frameworks for smart water governance in arid, high-tech cities such as NEOM, Saudi Arabia. This builds on my MSc in Environment and Development, also at Cardiff University, where I conducted a systematic review exploring the role of governance in sustainable water management.

Before moving into the field of environment and development, I worked extensively as an anaesthesia technologist in major hospitals across Saudi Arabia, including King Faisal Specialist Hospital, CMH Medical Centre, and Aldara Hospital. In these roles, I supported anaesthesia doctors in providing critical care during complex surgical procedures, honing skills in precision, teamwork, and resilience under pressure.

My diverse background in healthcare and environmental studies informs my interdisciplinary approach to research and drives my commitment to advancing resilient and equitable water management systems aligned with sustainable development goals.

Honours and awards

Graduated with honors with Bachelor of Science in Intra- and Perioperative Practice (Anesthesia), Cardiff University, 2016

Academic positions

Currently no previous academic positions. I look forward to gaining teaching or research assistant experience during my PhD at Cardiff University.

Speaking engagements

Currently no formal speaking engagements. I look forward to presenting my research at seminars, workshops, and conferences during my PhD studies.

Committees and reviewing

Currently no committee or reviewing roles. I look forward to engaging in departmental committees and contributing to peer review activities during my PhD at Cardiff University.

Supervisors

Antonio Ioris

Professor in Human Geography