Chinese construction firms have secured a major infrastructure project in Saudi Arabia to connect the cities of Abha and Jizan, in a development valued at approximately SAR 19 billion ($5 billion), according to regional project reporting and official statements.
The project, overseen by the Asir Region Development Authority, will span around 130 kilometres and is expected to reduce travel time between the two cities to approximately 90 minutes, compared with nearly three hours currently.
Chinese companies involved in the project include China Harbour Engineering Company and Sichuan Construction Engineering Group, which were part of prequalified consortiums and are now contributing to execution phases, according to infrastructure sector reports .
The project will incorporate complex engineering works, including bridges and tunnels, highlighting its significance as one of the Kingdom’s major transport developments.
According to Abdulqader Othman Ameer, the project could reach SAR 39 billion under a build-operate model, reflecting broader investment in transport infrastructure across the Asir region.
The development forms part of Saudi Arabia’s wider strategy to enhance regional connectivity, linking major urban centres such as Abha, Khamis Mushait, and Al-Majardah, while also supporting plans to integrate Bisha into the national railway network.
The infrastructure push is being complemented by SAR 5 billion in private sector investments, largely focused on hospitality and tourism, as Abha prepares to host matches during the FIFA World Cup 2034.
As The Middle East Observer notes, the Abha–Jizan project reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued reliance on international construction expertise—particularly Chinese firms—in delivering large-scale infrastructure under its economic diversification strategy. The Middle East Observer highlights that such partnerships are central to accelerating project delivery timelines while supporting regional development and long-term connectivity objectives.
