Arar: Vice Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Eng. Mansour Al-Mushaiti confirmed that Northern Borders Region is a vital strategic hub for investment, driven by its natural resources, vast rangelands, and the Arar land port, which enhances trade and logistics in the environment, water, and agriculture sectors.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Al-Mushaiti, speaking at the Northern Borders Investment Forum, emphasized the ministry’s commitment to sustainable development. He noted that rehabilitated land has decreased from 167,000 hectares in 2015 to 89,000 in 2023, with initiatives such as the planting of one million trees and the Ma’ilah National Park project, which spans 14 million square meters and is 70% complete and open for investment.

In the water sector, over SAR2.2 billion has been invested in projects, including 730 km of water and sewage networks and large storage tanks, nearly doubling the region’s water pumping capacity from 43,000 to 82,000 cubic meters per day.

Regarding agriculture, Al-Mushaiti reported support exceeding SAR379 million through programs like Saudi Reef, benefiting over 8,400 individuals. An additional SAR255 million was allocated for livestock and agricultural production.

He concluded that Northern Borders now boasts strong infrastructure and a conducive environment for sustainable economic returns, indicating a promising agricultural and environmental future.