Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Abdullah Saleh Kamel, chairman of the Makkah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized that Makkah is not only the heart of the Islamic world and the destination of Muslims, but also a city, with vast economic and development opportunities, that deserves to be in the forefront of smart cities worldwide.

He made the remarks while hosting a cultural event attended by a group of dignitaries, intellectuals, entrepreneurs, and media professionals. The event marked the 34th season of Al-Abdali Ahadiya, used to hold on Sundays.

Abdullah Kamel underscored the importance of the support extended by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, in his capacity as chairman of the Board of Directors of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites, for the development projects in Makkah and the holy sites. He also highlighted the ongoing cooperation between the Makkah Chamber and the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites.

Kamel said that the development, organization, and transportation projects taking place in Makkah are an extension of an ambitious vision that simultaneously enhances its religious and economic standing.

During the event, Abdullah Kamel spoke about the comprehensive development process that Makkah is witnessing in various fields, particularly in infrastructure, transportation, urban planning, and investment services.

He stated that the Makkah Masar project represents a quantum leap in transportation and logistics within the holy city, connecting vital areas to the Grand Mosque with ease and convenience, contributing to improving traffic efficiency and organization during the Hajj and Umrah seasons. He noted that the next phase will witness a further expansion of smart transportation and enhanced connectivity between neighborhoods and the holy sites.

Kamel noted that Makkah suffered in the past from slums and urban congestion, but its current state of comprehensive urban planning and modernization reflects the leadership's commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents and visitors, while preserving its sanctity and historical identity. “The holy city's diverse investment opportunities make it an attractive environment for all those seeking to contribute to its development. Promising sectors in Makkah include hospitality, transportation, technology, logistics services, and endowment products,” he said while emphasizing the importance of investing in these areas to keep pace with Makkah's hosting of millions of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims throughout the year.

For his part, Obaid bin Saad Al-Abdali, founder of Al-Abdali Ahadiya, commended the participation of Sheikh Abdullah Saleh Kamel, chairman of the Makkah Chamber of Commerce, stressing that his speech reflected the depth of the economic and development vision for the holiest place on earth. He called for the continuation of such meetings that bring together thought, economy, and culture on a single platform.

The meeting featured an open dialogue with the attendees, discussing the future of Makkah as a global development model that combines modern organization with religious sanctity. The meeting was met with great interaction from the attendees, who described it as one of the richest and most inspiring sessions of Al-Abdali Ahadiya.