Saudi Arabia has launched a new initiative to support the reconstruction of Syria’s capital, Damascus, as part of its growing engagement with the country’s new authorities.
The state-backed King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief) will provide an aid package to clear approximately 75,000 cubic meters of rubble from the capital and its surroundings.
This project is part of a broader effort by Saudi Arabia to strengthen its ties with Syria and contribute to the country’s recovery.
The aid package will not only focus on debris removal but also extend to rebuilding 34 schools in Aleppo, Idlib, and Homs, reconstructing dozens of bakeries, and rehabilitating sewage and water infrastructure in Damascus.
Abdullah Al Rabeeah, who leads KSRelief, emphasized the charity’s commitment to supporting the Syrian people, stating that they were “honoured to inaugurate a number of humanitarian projects for the Syrian people,” including initiatives focused on health, food security, and education.
Syria’s Minister for Disaster Management, Raed al-Saleh, highlighted the significance of the agreements signed between the two countries, noting that they would enhance “humanitarian response efforts and reconstruction in Syria, affirming the strength of the humanitarian and brotherly relations between our two countries.”
This development underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing role in supporting Syria’s recovery and rebuilding efforts.
In late July, Saudi Arabia pledged $6.4 billion in investment and partnership deals with Syria, demonstrating its commitment to the country’s economic recovery.
Additionally, the kingdom announced plans to invest $2.9 billion in Syria and pledged to cover the country’s debt to the World Bank, alongside Qatar. These investments are crucial in helping Syria rebuild its economy, which contracted by almost 70% from its 2011 high during the civil war.
The reconstruction efforts in Syria are taking place within the context of the country’s ongoing recovery from years of conflict.
The new authorities in Damascus have sought international investment to kick-start the economy and rebuild infrastructure. Saudi Arabia’s support for Syria’s reconstruction is part of a broader regional effort to stabilize the country and promote economic growth.
As Syria navigates its complex geopolitical landscape, the role of regional actors like Saudi Arabia will be critical in shaping the country’s future.
Saudi Arabia’s reconstruction efforts in Syria are part of a broader strategy to strengthen economic ties between the two countries. The kingdom has pledged billions of dollars in investments to support Syria’s recovery, including a $6.4 billion investment and partnership deal announced in July. This investment aims to kick-start Syria’s economy, which contracted by almost 70% from its 2011 high during the civil war.
The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief) is playing a crucial role in supporting Syria’s humanitarian needs. KSRelief has launched several projects, including the removal of war debris, rehabilitation of sewage and water infrastructure, and rebuilding of schools and bakeries. These projects aim to alleviate the suffering of affected people and address high-priority areas of urgent needs.
The reconstruction efforts in Syria have significant implications for the region. Saudi Arabia’s investment in Syria’s reconstruction is expected to promote economic growth, stability, and cooperation between the two countries. The project also reflects the kingdom’s growing role in supporting regional development and humanitarian initiatives.
In addition to the reconstruction projects, Saudi Arabia has launched a $100 million real estate project in Damascus, signaling renewed economic cooperation with Syria.
The project, known as Al Jawhara Tower, will feature a mixed-use development with office, hospitality, and retail components. This investment is expected to contribute to Syria’s urban redevelopment efforts and promote economic growth.
The international community has been supportive of Syria’s reconstruction efforts. The United Kingdom, for example, has announced a $445 million economic partnership with Saudi Arabia, aimed at promoting joint investments and economic cooperation. This partnership reflects the growing recognition of the importance of Syria’s reconstruction for regional stability and economic growth.
