"The speedy development achieved by the province did not come by surprise but because of the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah," the governor told a meeting of administrators at his office in Makkah.

He referred to the slogan of the province's development strategy "Toward First World," expressing his confidence in the capabilities of Saudi manpower resources.

Prince Khaled said the governorate was successful in establishing university branches in all major cities of the province with the aim of manpower development.

Meanwhile, the Makkah Provincial Council met here and discussed the progress of new airport projects in the province including the new Taif and Rabigh airports.

The meeting also discussed the situation of projects that have not been completed by contractors. It emphasized the need for implementing all projects within a timeframe.