https://arab.news/5zyza
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh Al-Jasser has predicted that 80 percent of the targeted investments in the country’s transport and logistics sector will come from the private sector.
Speaking at the third PIF Private Sector Forum in Riyadh, Al-Jasser emphasized the crucial role of the private sector, announcing that new agreements worth over SR18 billion ($4.8 billion) have been signed with private companies in the port and maritime industries.
“The private sector is a vital partner in developing the transport and logistics system, and this partnership continues to grow and strengthen,” Al-Jasser remarked. He also mentioned that four major road projects are currently being offered to the private sector.
Air transport has shown significant growth, with an increase of 15 percent last year and around 26 percent in 2023.
Al-Jasser highlighted the ongoing expansion of Madinah airport, noting that the private sector is overseeing the entire capacity expansion.
“The private sector is responsible for the construction, operation, and management of this project,” he explained.
The minister also drew attention to upcoming privatization plans for Abha, Taif, Hail, and Qassim airports, as well as additional road projects.
“The total value of opportunities that will be made available through partnerships with the private sector—whether through privatization or other models—amounts to SR240 billion in the transport and logistics sectors,” Al-Jasser added.
He concluded by noting that private sector participation in the transport system is already substantial, with many operations under private management.