Yemen plans to start building a port in the Qishn area of the eastern Mahra region at a cost of $130 million in two months, Deputy Transport Minister Naser Shuraif said.

January 2, the government approved a deal with Ajham Energy & Mining Co. for the construction of the Arabian Sea port in an area bordering Oman and involving a 50-year concession, Shuraif said by phone.

The deal stipulates the construction of the port within about three years and includes building a road for $45 million to transport the minerals to the maritime hub.  

The country has been devastated by a seven-year conflict that spurred a humanitarian catastrophe. The project will provide an opportunity for improvement, the official said.