Saudi Arabia has unveiled development projects worth around $500 million across southern Yemen. The initiatives include building hospitals, schools, roads, and providing fuel to boost electricity production.
Many projects are planned in areas formerly controlled by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and allied separatists. These groups were removed during a Saudi-backed military offensive earlier this month.
The move signals a more assertive role for Saudi Arabia in Yemen, amid growing tensions with the UAE. The separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) advanced across southern Yemen last year, reaching near the Saudi border. Riyadh considered this a threat to its national security and supported an offensive that ousted the STC from power.
On Wednesday, Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman met with the head of Yemen’s internationally recognized government and members of the Presidential Leadership Council. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support and announced aid and development plans across ten provinces.
One notable project includes the construction of a mosque on Socotra Island named “The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques”, referencing the Saudi king. Socotra had been under UAE influence for years before the recent changes.
Saudi Arabia emphasized that these initiatives aim to enhance security, stability, and development in Yemen. Officials said the projects reflect the kingdom’s commitment to building a better future for the Yemeni people.
Previously, Saudi Arabia and the UAE worked together in a coalition fighting Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. This conflict caused one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. However, the Gulf powers now have differences over influence in southern Yemen and other regional issues.
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This latest initiative shows Saudi Arabia’s strategic interest in Yemen and its determination to lead reconstruction and development in the south. Officials said the projects will strengthen governance, services, and economic activity across affected provinces.
