Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah region, has described the Makkah urban observatory project as vital for any city or region that wishes to attain a high level of development. Prince Khaled who is also the Chairman of the High Council of Urban Observatory made the comments during a workshop in Jeddah on Monday. “Today's world does not permit improvisation or individual decisions. If we want to develop our country and propel ourselves to the forefront of advanced countries, we should follow the example of every advanced and civilized society.” The workshop was organized by Makkah Mayoralty and its focus was on the role of urban observatories in urban development strategies. Its main purpose is to collect, analyze and spread information about the indicators that reflect important development issues. Prince Khaled lauded the efforts of the mayoralty and every dedicated official who works hard to serve Makkah and the guests of Allah. “The Kingdom will soon see an exceptional phase of development led by King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and Crown Prince Naif,” the Emir said. Meanwhile, representatives from 12 public and private sectors have suggested that a council to serve the disabled be set up under Prince Khaled Al-Faisal. At a meeting in King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Jeddah the representatives recommended penalties against agencies which do not create jobs for sign instructors to help the disabled and expedite the processing of their paperwork. Other recommendations include special playing fields, the reduction of travel tickets by 50 percent, and the building of centers that provide information and statistics to government agencies on the disabled. Dr. Sami Badawood said: “The meeting shows Prince Khaled's keenness to make Jeddah one of the governorates that provides special services to the disabled.” __
