Sudan, Cameroon and Palau were among countries that have received financial support from the Saudi Fund for Development so far in 2026, as it continued its work despite growing geopolitical tensions.
Established in 1974 and commenced operations in 1975, SFD has financed more than 800 development projects in over 100 countries, with a cumulative value exceeding $22 billion.
SFD provides financing across a wide range of sectors, including health, education, transport, water, and energy. Its projects aim to improve living conditions, strengthen local capacities, and generate job opportunities for millions of people in developing countries.
Improving water access in Sudan
In January, SFD signed a $10 million memorandum of understanding with Sudan and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to strengthen water supply systems and support communities affected by conflict and water scarcity in the North African nation.
In a press statement, SFD said that the contribution reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to development support and improving essential services for vulnerable populations.
Under the agreement, the Saudi-funded grant will support the rehabilitation and expansion of key water supply systems, including improvements to the Nile water system in Khartoum.
The initiative also incorporates solar-powered operations, technical capacity building, and community participation to ensure long-term sustainability, equitable access, and strengthened resilience to climate-related pressures.
Barham Salih, UN High Commissioner for Refugees said: “When people have access to essential services, they regain dignity, stability, and the ability to move forward. This generous financial support goes beyond meeting immediate water needs — it strengthens resilience and self-reliance among displaced people while reinforcing the critical systems host communities depend on.”
Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of SFD said that access to safe and reliable water is fundamental to health, stability, and everyday life.
“Through this grant and our partnership with UNHCR, the Saudi Fund for Development is helping to strengthen essential water infrastructure in Sudan and provide sustainable solutions that meet both urgent needs and long-term development goals,” added Al-Marshad.
Funding for industrial city project in Oman
In February, SFD signed a MoU to support the establishment of the Thumrait Industrial City Project in Oman with a value of $40 million.
The MoU seeks to promote the industrial, logistical, developmental, and social sectors in Dhofar Governorate by establishing the integrated Thumrait Industrial City, which will span approximately 3.94 million sq. meters.
The project involves the construction and equipping of administrative buildings, service facilities, and public amenities. It also includes road development, electrical infrastructure, water distribution networks, and the building of two wastewater treatment plants.
Al-Marshad said that the deal reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Oman’s development sectors and strengthening bilateral development cooperation.
Road rehabilitation in Cameroon
In March, SFD signed a development loan agreement with Cameroon to finance the rehabilitation of the Sorawel-Dourbeye Road.
Under the agreement, SFD will provide $75 million to support the rehabilitation of a key road corridor.
The project will reduce isolation, strengthen connectivity, and facilitate regional trade with neighboring countries, including Nigeria and Chad, while improving access to essential services.
The project is also expected to improve access to markets, healthcare, and education for local communities. It will also support regional trade and economic integration, contributing to long-term growth.
“This agreement reflects SFD’s commitment to supporting development that improves people’s daily lives and creates long-term opportunity. By enhancing connectivity, expanding access to essential services, and supporting regional trade, the project will contribute to sustainable development in Cameroon and the wider region,” said Al-Marshad.
SFD’s partnership with Cameroon goes back more than 40 years. Since then, the fund has supported 10 development projects totaling more than $180 million across key sectors, including infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Helping hand to Palau
In April, SFD signed a $15 million development loan agreement with the Republic of Palau, marking the Fund’s first-ever development partnership in the Pacific island nation.
Designed to empower the local economy, the financing will support projects spearheaded by Palauan developers, businesses, and entrepreneurs. By aligning with Palau’s national priorities, the funds will catalyze high-impact initiatives and foster sustainable, grassroots economic growth.
“We are proud to launch our first collaboration with the Republic of Palau. By expanding access to vital funding, we aim to uplift local entrepreneurs and help secure a resilient future for the Palauan people. This agreement embodies our broader mission to foster prosperity across island nations,” said Al-Marshad.
President of Palau Surangel S. Whipps Jr. stated the deep appreciation for the assistance, and said that the “agreement is about building a stronger Palauan economy by channeling this financing through our National Development Bank so that Palauan developers, businesses, and entrepreneurs can lead new projects that create jobs, unlock investment, and keep more value here at home.”
Cooperation agreement to support developing nations
In May, SFD signed a framework cooperation agreement with Banque Saudi Fransi to enhance the participation of Saudi companies in the implementation of development projects financed by the Fund in developing countries around the world.
The agreement aims to provide integrated financing products and solutions and banking services to support Saudi companies participating in the implementation of projects in various countries, Saudi Press Agency reported.
“The agreement comes as an affirmation of the importance of enhancing development cooperation, in order to contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and supporting development initiatives in developing countries,” the report added.
