Saudi Arabia’s Yemen reconstruction program signs power deal, expands major infrastructure projects
Riyadh – The Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen (SDRPY) has signed a new memorandum of understanding to enhance Yemen’s electricity infrastructure and expand key development projects across several governorates.
The agreement was signed in partnership with Yemen’s Ministry of Electricity and Energy and Gulf International Electric Power Co., marking a significant step in strengthening energy cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
The memorandum focuses on launching new power generation projects in the cities of Aden, Mukalla, Seiyun, and Taiz. According to officials, the initial production capacity will reach 300 megawatts, aiming to address power shortages and promote stability in Yemen’s energy sector.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Yemeni Prime Minister Salem Saleh bin Braik and Saudi Ambassador to Yemen Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Jaber. Both parties emphasized the importance of reliable energy infrastructure in supporting Yemen’s recovery and long-term development.
The agreement also includes provisions for training programs, sustainability measures, and strict adherence to quality standards and implementation timelines. These efforts aim to strengthen the efficiency of Yemen’s electricity network and ensure long-term operational stability.
Officials stated that the project will help improve service delivery, support essential infrastructure, and contribute to ongoing economic reform efforts in Yemen. The focus on renewable and sustainable energy aligns with the broader regional goal of advancing energy diversification.
Over the years, the SDRPY has played a crucial role in enhancing Yemen’s electricity generation capacity and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. The program continues to deliver projects designed to restore critical infrastructure and improve quality of life across the country.
More than 12 million people have benefited from SDRPY’s projects and initiatives, which include the Saudi oil derivatives grant. This grant has powered 80 electricity generation stations across multiple Yemeni governorates, helping to stabilize energy supply and improve local services.
To date, SDRPY has implemented 265 development projects across eight key sectors — education, health, water, energy, transportation, agriculture, and other essential services. These initiatives reflect Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to supporting Yemen’s reconstruction and recovery efforts.
In addition to the new power deal, SDRPY announced the completion of the second phase of the Al-Abir Road expansion and rehabilitation project in Hadramawt. The newly completed section extends 40 kilometers from Al-Dhuwaibi to Ghuwairban, significantly improving road connectivity in the region.
The first phase of the Al-Abir Road project, covering 50 kilometers, was completed in May 2024. With both phases combined, a total of 91 kilometers of the road have now been completed, representing a major advancement in Yemen’s transport infrastructure.
Al-Abir Road serves as one of Yemen’s most critical transport corridors, linking the governorates of Ma’rib, Hadramawt, and Shabwa. It also provides an essential connection between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and humanitarian aid.
The upgraded road is expected to boost regional trade, improve safety, and support economic activities by providing more reliable access routes between key areas. The project is part of SDRPY’s broader strategy to enhance Yemen’s transportation network and support long-term development.
In a related development, SDRPY is nearing completion of the rehabilitation and expansion of the Al-Wadi’ah border crossing, one of Yemen’s most vital land entry points.
This project includes modernized infrastructure, enhanced road systems, upgraded plazas, improved power and water sources, and advanced monitoring systems. These improvements aim to facilitate trade, travel, and cross-border cooperation between Yemen and Saudi Arabia.
Through its continuous efforts, the SDRPY remains a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting Yemen’s recovery, rebuilding essential infrastructure, and promoting sustainable development across various sectors.
