Social Development Bank, Jahez Group back startups with SR10m fund

Ghassab Al-Mandeel, CEO of Jahez Group
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Updated 04 February 2025
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Social Development Bank, Jahez Group back startups with SR10m fund

Saudi Arabia’s Social Development Bank successfully concluded a training camp for the Jahez Social Responsibility Portfolio, which took place over five days at the Dulani Business Center in Riyadh.

The camp resulted in supporting 20 entrepreneurial projects with a total financing of SR10 million ($2.7 million) and a funding ceiling of SR500,000 per project, drawn from the overall SR30 million value of the Jahez Social Responsibility Portfolio. 

SDB managed the portfolio by conducting feasibility studies, disbursing funds, and overseeing project progress to ensure their long-term sustainability. This integrated model is designed to empower entrepreneurs and foster a thriving startup ecosystem.

Throughout the camp, participants received extensive training in essential business skills, including economic feasibility studies and investment proposal presentations, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence needed to successfully enter the market. 

The initiative is part of a strategic partnership with Jahez, to strengthen public-private sector collaboration, drive sustainable development, and empower entrepreneurs in the fast-growing logistics sector.

Sultan Al-Hamidi, CEO of SDB, said: “The Jahez Social Responsibility Portfolio is not merely a financing tool but a comprehensive development framework aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among Saudi youth. Through our management of this portfolio, we are committed to creating a lasting economic impact, generating real opportunities for ambitious entrepreneurs. The Jahez camp was a bright beginning to a journey of contribution and accomplishments, where each supported project contributes to building a sustainable economy and a brighter future.”

Ghassab Al-Mandeel, CEO of Jahez Group, said: “Our partnership with SDB embodies our dedication to empowering entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary financial and operational support. This initiative aims to accelerate the growth of the logistics sector as a key driver of the national economy, while fostering innovation through pioneering projects aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Each training phase within the camp has been a crucial step toward turning promising ideas into viable, sustainable businesses.”

SDB launched a pioneering social responsibility portfolio, offering a structured framework for companies to effectively contribute to community development and sustainable growth. Jahez was the first partner in this initiative, committing an initial SR30 million to the portfolio.


Ajdan cements role in major projects by signing MoU with King Salman International Airport in Riyadh

Updated 14 February 2026
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Ajdan cements role in major projects by signing MoU with King Salman International Airport in Riyadh

Ajdan Real Estate Development Company signed an MoU with King Salman International Airport during the Public Investment Fund & Private Sector Forum 2026. 

The MoU aims to explore areas of cooperation and identify opportunities for mixed-use real estate and commercial development that will enhance project quality and meet the highest standards of efficiency and excellence.

Representing Ajdan at the signing ceremony was its CEO, Eng. Mohammed bin Abdulmohsen Al-Otaibi, while Dr. Mohammed Al-Jarallah, deputy chief executive for real estate development, signed on behalf of King Salman International Airport. The MoU establishes a strategic framework for future cooperation and paves the way for a long-term partnership on a number of flagship projects.

Under this memorandum, Ajdan collaborates with King Salman International Airport on the development of mixed-use spaces and commercial facilities within the airport’s premises, building on its role as a national real estate developer delivering innovative projects that advance sustainable development. The company will leverage its expertise in the planning, design, and management of integrated commercial destinations to ensure project execution meets the highest standards of quality and sustainability.

King Salman International Airport is one of the Kingdom’s largest strategic development projects in terms of area and operational ambition. The airport spans approximately 57 sq. km, of which about 12 sq. km are allocated for mixed-use real estate development, in addition to fully integrated economic and logistics zones covering more than 3 million square meters. 

These developments will enhance the integration of real estate, commercial, and service activities. The airport targets handling 100 million passengers annually by 2030, supported by comprehensive upgrades to facilities, infrastructure, and logistics services, positioning it as an advanced multi-sector investment platform and a driver of economic growth.

Eng. Mohammed bin Abdulmohsen Al-Otaibi, CEO of Ajdan, stated: “We take pride in our collaboration with King Salman International Airport, which reflects Ajdan’s commitment to developing integrated destinations in line with global standards. Through this partnership, we aim to leverage our expertise to deliver innovative solutions that create sustainable value for the airport and enhance the visitor experience.”

KSIA Acting CEO Marco Mejia said: “These seven partnerships reflect our ambitious vision to transform KSIA into a fully integrated urban and economic ecosystem that goes beyond the traditional concept of airports. We are proud to collaborate with a distinguished group of leading national real estate developers whose deep expertise and strong track records will help deliver high-quality projects, create sustainable economic value, and further position the airport as a leading investment hub.”

This step is part of Ajdan’s strategy to expand its strategic partnerships and develop sustainable urban and commercial destinations that help improve the quality of life and support economic growth across the Kingdom.