Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has announced a significant development package for Yemen, comprising SAR1.9 billion worth of projects and a new fuel grant to power Yemeni energy facilities. This initiative, directed by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is part of the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen (SDRPY) aimed at improving the lives of Yemeni people across various governorates.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the package includes 28 development projects targeting crucial sectors such as health, energy, education, and transport. These projects are designed to enhance the security and stability of Yemen while improving basic services in governorates like Aden, Hadramout, and Taiz. In addition, 27 other projects are currently in progress and expected to be completed by 2026-2027. Since its inception in 2018, the SDRPY has delivered a total of 240 projects.
In Aden, the program will support the continuous operation of Prince Mohammed bin Salman Hospital and initiate the establishment of Yemen's first desalination plant. This plant aims to tackle fresh water shortages and promote water security. Other key projects include furthering the Aden Airport Rehabilitation project to improve air transport services and the construction of government headquarters and a presidential complex to bolster Yemen's development.
Hadramout will see improvements in its road infrastructure and healthcare access with the construction of Hadramout University Hospital. Additionally, new colleges for computer science and information technology will be established to support higher education.
Al-Mahrah will benefit from the operation of King Salman Medical and Educational City for three years, alongside the establishment of a College of Applied and Health Sciences. In Socotra, educational and health facilities will be expanded, including the construction of a mosque and a technical institute.
The Abyan Governorate will receive a new hospital and model schools, while Shabwa will focus on healthcare and education expansion. Agricultural support will also be provided. In Taiz, a new hospital and power plant will be established to improve healthcare and electricity capacity.
In Marib, the program will enhance transportation infrastructure with the completion of the Al-Abr Highway project and establish a girls' educational complex. Al-Dhale'e will gain a rural hospital and improved teacher training programs. In Lahij, a maternal and child health center and a maternity emergency center will be set up.
The comprehensive support from Saudi Arabia includes the construction of 30 schools across multiple governorates, aiming to boost educational access and efficiency. The fuel derivatives grant is expected to enhance the reliability of electricity supply, benefiting hospitals, schools, and various public facilities, as well as promoting industrial and trade activities across Yemen.
Source: Saudi Press Agency