Saudi-Yemeni relations are deeply rooted in history, based on solid foundations of geographical proximity, shared religion and language, and intertwined social and tribal ties. Since the 1970s, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has consistently provided all forms of support to its brotherly nation of Yemen, whether political support to maintain stability, economic support to bolster the currency, or humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of those in need. As a culmination of this historical trajectory, the establishment of the "Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen" marked a qualitative shift in the concept of support, moving from the stage of emergency relief to one of sustainable development and institutional building.
A strategic vision for sustainable development
In mid-2018, by royal decree of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may God protect him, the Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen was launched with a clear vision aimed at directly addressing the needs of the Yemeni people. The program's role extends beyond mere construction; it encompasses human development and capacity building, relying on a strategy aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and implementing global best practices to ensure the lasting impact of these projects for future generations.
Numbers and facts: 268 projects in 8 sectors
Through this program, the Kingdom has achieved tangible results on the ground, implementing more than 268 development projects and initiatives across 16 Yemeni governorates. These efforts focused on eight vital sectors that form the backbone of the economy: education, health, water, energy, transportation, agriculture and fisheries, and building the capacity of government institutions. This comprehensive planning reflects a genuine desire to revitalize the Yemeni economy and improve the living standards of its citizens.
A revolution in the health and education sectors
The program has given special attention to the health and education of the Yemeni people. The King Salman Medical and Educational City in Al-Mahra Governorate stands out as a medical landmark, spanning one million square meters and making it the largest medical complex serving the eastern governorates. Simultaneously, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Hospital in Aden continues to provide high-quality services to more than three million beneficiaries, equipped with the latest medical technologies. In the education sector, the program has not only focused on renovating schools but has also extended its support to universities in Aden, Taiz, Marib, and Hadramawt by establishing medical and pharmacy colleges and equipping laboratories, thus ensuring the graduation of qualified Yemeni professionals who will lead their country's future.
The lifebloods: transportation and water
Recognizing the vital role of infrastructure in driving economic growth, the program rehabilitated ports, airports, and seaports, including Aden International Airport and Nishtun Port, as well as 150 km of key roads such as the Al-Abr Road. These projects benefited over 14 million people, facilitating trade and transportation. In the water sector, the program successfully secured sustainable water sources, covering 100% of the needs of Al-Ghaydah city and 50% of the needs of Socotra Island, thus enhancing water security amidst environmental challenges.
Strategic importance and expected impact
The importance of these projects extends beyond their direct service provision; they represent a fundamental pillar for restoring the health of Yemeni state institutions and strengthening security and social stability. By creating job opportunities, supporting livelihoods, and empowering youth and women, the Saudi program contributes to drying up the sources of extremism and despair, and lays the foundation for an attractive environment for future investment. This generous support affirms to the entire world that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is Yemen's closest brother and steadfast supporter in times of both prosperity and adversity, and that Yemen's stability is an integral part of the security and stability of the entire region.
