RIYADH: The Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen at the recent 13th World Urban Forum in Baku, Azerbaijan, showcased billions of dollars in projects aimed at rebuilding infrastructure, restoring services and supporting long-term stability in the country.
The forum, organized by UN-Habitat, brought together governments and development agencies focused on sustainable urban development and post-conflict recovery.
During the event which ran from May 17 to 22, the SDRPY held workshops and bilateral meetings, while also signing international cooperation agreements for Yemen’s urban recovery, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The centerpiece of the new agreement is the second phase of the Adequate Housing Project in Yemen which will rehabilitate 760 units for low-income families in Aden, Taiz and Lahij, benefiting 4,560 people.
The Kingdom will also train 220 unemployed youths in vocational skills, and upskill 50 government technical staff in housing rehabilitation and construction.
The agreement builds on the project’s first phase, completed in September 2024, which rehabilitated 650 homes and improved living conditions for more than 4,500 beneficiaries while also creating jobs and training opportunities.
Infographic generated by Gemini (Google AI)
At its pavilion in Baku, the SDRPY highlighted more than 287 projects and initiatives launched across Yemen since 2018 in partnership with the Yemeni government.
The projects span eight sectors, including energy, health, transport, education, water, agriculture and institutional capacity building, with total funding exceeding $1.14 billion.
Energy projects accounted for the largest share of investment at nearly $690 million, followed by health at about $147 million, and transport worth more than $103 million.
The program also screened its documentary film “THEN/NOW,” which highlighted the impact of Saudi-backed projects on infrastructure rehabilitation and the restoration of basic services across Yemen.
