Water resources management refers to a set of policies, plans, and actions aimed at the optimal utilization, protection, and equitable distribution of surface and groundwater resources. This management includes controlling water extraction, preventing pollution, increasing consumption efficiency, and applying irrigation methods. In rural areas, proper water resource management plays a fundamental role in agricultural sustainability, food security, preventing rural outmigration. Furthermore, community participation in decision-making is considered one of the key principles of sustainable water resource management.

Sustainable rural planning is a process that, by considering economic, social, and environmental dimensions, seeks to improve the quality of life of rural residents without degrading natural resources for future generations. In this type of planning, the conservation of water, soil, and vegetation resources is emphasized alongside the development of economic activities such as agriculture, livestock farming, and rural tourism. Emphasis on the efficient use of resources, creation of sustainable

The objective of this research is to examine water resources management and its role in sustainable rural planning (Case Study: Khuzestan Province). In terms of purpose, the study is theoretical–applied, and in terms of nature and methodology, it is descriptive–analytical. Geographic tools and techniques, including the ANP

Given the province’s specific climatic conditions, the strong dependence of rural areas on surface and groundwater resources, and challenges such as drought, salinity, and declining water quality, a scientific evaluation of water management criteria is essential. In this study, the ANP model was applied to determine the relative importance of criteria and their internal relationships, and the analysis process was conducted using SuperDecision software.

The results indicate that criteria such as water use efficiency, integrated watershed management, improvement of irrigation systems, and community participation have the greatest impact on rural sustainability. These factors can therefore be considered key policy priorities for rural areas of Khuzestan Province.