SMC unit lands mental health PPP, Riyadh Air’s third destination

SMC subsidiary to run Sabic Behavioral Care Hospital: SMCHealthcare ’s subsidiary Al Mukhtas Al Sehhi Medical secured a SAR 3.8 bn, 15-year PPP contract to manage and operate the Sabic Behavioral Care Specialist Hospital, according to a Tadawul disclosure. SMC holds a 51% stake in Al Mukhtas, with the Health Ministry acting as procurer and asset owner.

IN DETAILS- The 150-bed mental health facility includes 19 outpatient clinics and six daycare rooms, with services spanning mental health, addiction treatment, rehabilitation, and aftercare. The award letter does not impose financial obligations or commitments under the law until the contract is formally executed.

Riyadh Air’s third destination

Riyadh Air flies to Dubai: Riyadh Air has officially rolled out its third destination with a once-daily service to Dubai in each direction on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, the airline said in a press release. The route was the seventh busiest international air corridor globally in 2025.

Moving fast: The newly airborne carrier launched its first domestic flight linking Riyadh and Jeddah last week, days after its first commercial international flight to London Heathrow. Riyadh Air has also been cleared for using US airspace, with the US Transportation Department granting it the right to run scheduled and charter service between the Kingdom and the US.

REMEMBER- Riyadh Air wants to integrate one Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner into its fleet each month and launch two new destinations every two months, reaching 100 cities by 2030.

RCRC begins Imam Abdullah bin Saud Road redevelopment

Heads up if you’re driving in northeastern Riyadh: The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) has begun reconstruction on 9 km of Imam Abdullah bin Saud Road at its intersection with Khalid bin Al Waleed Road, according to a press release. The project, which aims to ease congestion in the area, will keep three lanes open in each direction during works, but expect disruption around the area for the duration.

REMEMBER- The RCRC kicked off the second phase of the city’s main and ring road development program last year, launching eight projects worth SAR 8 bn, including the development of Imam Abdullah bin Saud Road. The phase is scheduled to be completed over three years.