Saudi Arabia Commits $12 Billion To Support Yemen's Development And Stability Through 264 Projects

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is steadfast in its efforts to support Yemen's development and stability. This commitment was solidified by a 2018 royal decree from King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, establishing the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen (SDRPY). The initiative aims to enhance infrastructure and provide essential services, working closely with the Yemeni government and local entities.

Saudi Arabia has been a key supporter of Yemen's economic and relief sectors for many years. Between 2012 and 2023, it provided financial grants amounting to approximately $12 billion. These funds supported Yemen's budget, facilitated salary payments, and helped stabilize the Yemeni riyal through foreign exchange reserves.

SDRPY has significantly contributed to healthcare in Yemen by constructing and equipping hospitals. Notable projects include the King Salman Medical and Educational City in AlMahrah Governorate, featuring a 110-bed hospital. The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Hospital in Aden has offered over 2.4 million medical services, including surgeries and cardiac interventions.

Recent healthcare projects include the Specialized Oncology Center in Taiz Governorate, aimed at improving regional healthcare efficiency. The Hadhramout University Hospital project provides extensive facilities for cancer treatment. Additionally, SDRPY is enhancing healthcare access by building the Sabah Hospital in Abyan Governorate.

In education, SDRPY is implementing 58 projects across 11 governorates. These initiatives cover general education, higher education, and vocational training. More than 30 model schools have been established, along with university developments like the expansion of Saba Region University in Ma'rib Governorate.

The program also focuses on enhancing educational standards through projects like equipping laboratories at the University of Aden's Faculty of Pharmacy. This effort aims to improve research capabilities in medical sciences. Additionally, SDRPY is developing faculties at Taiz University to address medical personnel shortages.

Transportation Infrastructure

To boost transportation infrastructure, SDRPY has launched over 30 projects benefiting more than 14 million people. These initiatives have improved port operations, road safety, and border crossings. Notably, Aden International Airport's rehabilitation increased its capacity to one million passengers annually.

The Kingdom encourages international organisations to join development efforts in Yemen under Yemeni government leadership. Through SDRPY projects, Saudi Arabia continues to support Yemen's stability and growth by collaborating with over 40 partners worldwide.

SDRPY has executed 264 development projects across eight sectors: education, health, water, energy, transportation, agriculture and fisheries, capacity building for the Yemeni government, and broader development programs. These efforts have improved connectivity between cities and rural areas while expanding educational access at all levels.

The Kingdom remains committed to supporting Yemen's government in serving its people effectively. By fostering sustainable growth through strategic initiatives like SDRPY, Saudi Arabia aims to promote peace and stability in Yemen for years to come.

With inputs from SPA