Manama, Bahrain, January 8, 2025 – In a significant milestone for regional infrastructure development and bilateral cooperation, the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), represented by Deputy CEO Eng. Faisal bin Mohamed Al-Qahtani, participated in the official inauguration of the Bahrain Northern Road Project (Busaiteen Bridge) today. This pivotal project, which received a funding boost of $250 million, was made possible through a grant from the Government of Saudi Arabia via the SFD. The grand ceremony was also attended by Bahrain’s Deputy Prime Minister, Sheikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, further underscoring the strong partnership between the two nations in advancing critical infrastructure initiatives.
The Busaiteen Bridge and the broader northern road project are designed to significantly enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion within Bahrain’s transportation network. As one of the key strategic infrastructure developments, the project aims to provide a more efficient route for commuters and commercial traffic, facilitating smoother connectivity between northern and southern regions of Bahrain. This will not only improve daily transportation for residents but also bolster investment opportunities, creating a conducive environment for economic growth. The project’s successful completion will make a tangible impact on both the local economy and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region by enhancing regional connectivity.
In his address at the inauguration, Eng. Al-Qahtani emphasized the Saudi Fund for Development’s long-standing commitment to supporting the Kingdom of Bahrain’s economic growth and infrastructure development. The SFD, which has been actively involved in funding major projects across the region, worked in close collaboration with Bahrain’s Ministry of Works to ensure the timely and efficient completion of this critical infrastructure initiative. The partnership between the two countries highlights their shared commitment to fostering sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for their citizens.
The SFD’s involvement in the Busaiteen Bridge project marks another chapter in the deep-rooted development cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The Saudi Fund’s support for Bahrain spans nearly five decades, having commenced in 1977. Over this period, the SFD has financed 30 projects across a diverse range of sectors, including energy, transportation, and social infrastructure. These projects, which have been supported through concessional loans and grants from the Saudi government, have played a critical role in driving sustainable development in Bahrain and improving the living standards of its people.
The strategic partnership between the SFD and Bahrain reflects the broader diplomatic and economic ties that bind the two nations. As part of their shared vision for regional development, both countries have prioritized infrastructure projects that promote economic diversification, enhance regional connectivity, and create job opportunities. The Busaiteen Bridge is expected to be a catalyst for increased trade, further integration of the GCC’s transportation networks, and regional prosperity.
Moreover, the Busaiteen Bridge project aligns with Bahrain’s long-term goals to modernize its infrastructure and create a more efficient transportation ecosystem, which is vital for attracting foreign investment and improving the country’s global competitiveness. The bridge, which forms a crucial part of Bahrain’s northern road network, is expected to be instrumental in alleviating traffic congestion and boosting Bahrain’s economic mobility.
In conclusion, the inauguration of the Busaiteen Bridge is a testament to the successful partnership between the Saudi Fund for Development and the Government of Bahrain. As both nations continue to invest in sustainable infrastructure projects, the SFD’s ongoing support for Bahrain’s development reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader vision for promoting regional stability, economic prosperity, and shared growth within the Gulf region. This collaboration not only contributes to the improvement of Bahrain’s transportation sector but also serves as a model of successful regional cooperation in the broader GCC framework.
