Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH – The ongoing crackdown on corruption will also cover economic city projects in Rabigh, Madinah, Qassim and Jazan.

King Abdullah initiated the economic city projects in 2005 soon after ascending the Saudi throne after the death of King Fahd. King Abdullah Economic City in Rabigh was launched at the end of 2005 while the other three were inaugurated by the late king in 2006.

The four economic cities with advanced infrastructure facilities were expected to draw a combined capital investment of SR170 billion in 10 years and create more than 500,000 jobs for young Saudi men and women, Al-Watan Arabic daily reported.

It was announced that the four economic cities including Prince Abdulaziz Bin Mousaed Economic City in Hail, Knowledge Economic City in Madinah and Jazan Economic City would achieve five major objectives: Balanced regional development, diversification of revenue sources, creation of new job opportunities, transfer of knowledge and technology and modernization of infrastructure.

However, the four cities have failed to achieve their objectives due to shortcomings in implementation and corrupt practices.

The supreme committee to tackle corruption led by Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman has arrested a number of princes, ministers, business tycoons and senior officials as part of its efforts to combat graft and protect national interests.

Attorney General Saud Al-Mojeb said the actions carried out by the commission were undertaken “as part of the state’s judicial duty to combat corruption.”

He added: “The suspects are being granted the same rights and treatment as any other Saudi citizen. A suspect’s position or status does not influence the firm and fair application of justice.”

He vowed “a firm application of justice”, calling the operation “part of an overhaul to ensure transparency, openness and good governance.”

Crown Prince Muhammad has unveiled a raft of radical reforms, including lifting a ban on women driving, pledging to turn the country toward a more moderate interpretation of Islam, and launching an ambitious economic reform program designed to reduce the country’s dependence on oil.

King Abdullah Economic City was established in 2006 by a consortium of global real estate majors, including Emaar, a number of high-profile Saudi investors and government bodies, and the city’s master developer – Emaar.

KAEC is strategically located on the Red Sea coast with access to the world by sea, land rail and air. It is located between major shipping routes to Europe and Asia. It is the largest of the four economic cities in the country.

Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) is leading the development of these cities. Jazan Economic City is strategically located along an important sea route connecting Europe, Africa and Asia, with a focus on the energy and manufacturing industries.