JEDDAH: Banque Saudi Fransi has signed a financing deal worth SR6 billion ($1.6 billion) with Diriyah Co. to develop the Wadi Safar project, highlighting the private sector’s role in driving economic growth.

The development is a key cultural and tourism destination within the larger Diriyah area, which aims to attract over 50 million visitors by 2030 while supporting major initiatives, according to the bank, which rebranded as BSF in June after 48 years in the market.

During the signing ceremony, Bader Al-Salloom, CEO of BSF, and Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Co., emphasized the importance of this partnership in achieving sustainable development and enhancing Diriyah’s position as a prominent cultural and historical hub.

The agreement between the two parties aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of transforming the Kingdom into a global tourist destination. The Diriyah Gate Development Authority has set a precedent by blending respect for heritage with innovative, sustainable ventures, such as Al-Bujairi Terrace, which has become a major tourist attraction since its opening in 2022.

The deal is also part of BSF’s initiatives to back significant development projects that boost infrastructure, promote tourism, and drive economic growth in Saudi Arabia, the bank said in a statement.

The Wadi Safar project, introduced in December 2023 by the DGDA, is one of the three main initiatives under the Diriyah Co’s development plan.

It covers an area of approximately 62 sq. km and is set to become an upscale residential community, including high-end hospitality facilities, recreational and sports venues, and advanced commercial and retail spaces.

The project will offer premium real estate units designed to cater to the needs of both investors and visitors. Moreover, Wadi Safar’s gated community will serve as an oasis within Riyadh, featuring three major resorts: Six Senses, Aman, and Oberoi.

It is also the location for the ongoing development of the Greg Norman-designed championship signature golf course and Royal Diriyah Golf Club.

The Diriyah development project aims to generate around 178,000 job opportunities and is expected to contribute SR18.6 billion to the Kingdom’s gross domestic product upon completion.

RIYADH: Lebanon has finalized 22 cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia, setting the stage for a high-level visit next month to strengthen economic ties. 

The delegation could be led by President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, or both, according to Lebanese Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri in an interview with Asharq. 

This comes as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hosted President Aoun at the Royal Court in Al-Yamamah Palace on March 3 — Aoun’s first foreign visit since taking office — where they discussed Lebanon’s ongoing crisis and regional developments. 

The agreements, covering sectors from agriculture to intellectual property, are seen as crucial to securing broader international aid for Lebanon’s struggling economy. 

“This is a legitimate approach, and we must earn the trust of Arab nations and the international community,” Mitri said, emphasizing that Saudi Arabia’s support is vital for unlocking further international aid. He confirmed that the 22 agreements are fully drafted and ready for signing. 

On his arrival, Aoun had expressed hope that his talks with the crown prince would pave the way for a follow-up visit to sign agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two nations. 

The deals cover a wide range of sectors, including intellectual property, consumer protection, and environmental management, as well as agriculture and water resources, Rabih El-Amine, chairman of the Lebanese Executives Council, told Arab News earlier this month. 

El-Amine also pointed to agreements involving the Ministry of Information, the General Directorate of Civil Aviation, and Banque du Liban. 

Mitri further revealed that Lebanon is working on an independent fund — separate from government institutions handling refugee affairs — in partnership with international organizations to oversee post-war reconstruction efforts. This move aims to boost credibility with donors, especially in the wake of the recent Hezbollah-Israeli conflict. 

A World Bank report commissioned by the Lebanese government estimates the country needs roughly $11 billion for recovery and reconstruction. The report assessed damage across 10 key sectors, projecting infrastructure repairs at $3 billion to $5 billion in public sector funding, while housing, trade, industry, and tourism would require $6 billion to $8 billion in private investments. 

Mitri also noted that France has expressed willingness to host a conference to support Lebanon’s recovery. French officials have proposed preparatory meetings or merging them into a single event, though no date has been set. The conference would prioritize humanitarian aid and reconstruction, while a separate investment-focused event aims to attract international figures.