General of the Makkah Development Authority, briefed the Crown Prince on the new plans and projects. The total area to be developed is estimated at 587,250 square meters, with 90 percent being old buildings. The Jabal Khandama area, which is to be developed under the new project, is located southeast of Haram. Bordered by Malawi and Shaab Aamir on the north and Jabal Bakhsh on the south, it is a hilly area. Although the area is very close to Haram, few people reside there. The Makkah Development Authority plans to establish housing facilities for 24,000 people in the area. About 36 of 43 hectares in the Shamiya area, northwest of Haram, will be used for construction while the rest for the expansion of the mosque's courtyard. The authority has proposed that those who invest in projects in the area, such as hotels and residential towers, shall expand the courtyard. Saudi businessmen are expected to invest some SR3 billion to develop Shamiya. Some 46,000 square meters will be developed in the Jabal Al-Kaaba on the northeast of Haram. Abdul Latif Jameel Real Estate Investment Company is planning to establish a number of hotels, commercial centers and public facilities there. The authority has already conducted a study on developing Ajyad Hospital and surrounding areas. The Public Investment Fund will carry out the hospital project after paying compensation to property owners in the area.
