Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen Transforms Al-Abrar Road into a Vital Lifeline

For years, the Al-Obar road in Yemen has been a deadly trap, deteriorating and becoming filled with risks and tragic accidents. However, due to the intensive efforts of the Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen, this vital road has now transformed into a new lifeline for millions of Yemenis.

The Al-Obar road is a crucial artery in the Yemeni transportation network, connecting Yemen to Saudi Arabia and linking three major provinces – Marib, Hadramout, and Shabwa. This makes it of utmost importance for both public and commercial transportation. With limited alternatives available, thousands of travelers rely on this road daily, including those entering Yemen through the Al-Wadea border crossing with Saudi Arabia, Seyoun International Airport, and those departing through these points.

Despite its significance, the Al-Obar road was neglected for decades, lacking maintenance or rehabilitation, significantly increasing risks for travelers and turning it into one of the most dangerous roads in the country. In 2018 alone, accidents on the road claimed the lives of 105 people and injured around 800 others. The absence of medical facilities or emergency services along the road further heightened the danger for travelers.

In response to this urgent situation, the Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen launched a comprehensive project to rehabilitate and improve this vital artery. The first phase was completed in May 2024, covering 50 kilometers from Ad-Dowheebi to Al-Obar in Hadramout. The work included road expansion, repaving, installation of safety measures, navigation improvement to international standards. The second phase is currently underway, spanning from Ghuwairban to Ad-Dowheebi over 40 kilometers.

The Program’s General Supervisor, Ambassador Mohammed Said Al-Jaber, announced the completion of the first phase, describing the new road as a “lifeline,” emphasizing that subsequent phases are in progress. According to Program data, 11 million Yemenis benefit from the road, as the Saudi Program greatly enhances the transport sector in Yemen through comprehensive development projects. These include over 30 developmental projects and initiatives involving the development of ports, border crossings, airports, and roads. These initiatives aim to improve infrastructure and logistical services while also making travel safer, enhancing access to markets and services, and strengthening social and economic ties for Yemenis.

It is worth noting that the Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen has implemented 264 development projects in eight vital sectors, including education, health, water, energy, transport, agriculture, fisheries, and capacity development and support for the Yemeni government’s programs in 16 provinces.