(As narrated by Ahmad ibn Ibrahim Ghazzawi)
“Surrounding His Majesty were the hearts of millions — from every class, in cities, deserts, and distant villages — all raising their prayers to Almighty God, asking Him to aid the King in doing good, grant him victory, bless him with righteous advisors, guide him to what He loves and approves, and lead him to the straight path.”
Year after year — indeed month after month, week after week, day and night — the people witnessed signs of progress and reform. They saw with their own eyes the evidence of construction, development, and advancement across the nation. Every sector of the country moved from good to better:
• education at all levels — higher, intermediate, primary, and preparatory — reaching both desert and city;
• the army, its weapons, battalions, and units on land, sea, and air;
• roads stretching north, south, east, and west;
• communications, telegraph and mail, linking major cities with villages, the Arab and Islamic world, and even the far reaches of the globe.
Health services expanded dramatically. Major hospitals and clinics were built, and medical care was made available even in remote valleys and mountain regions through mobile ambulances — sparing patients the hardship of traveling long distances across the desert.
Schools, mosques, and institutions of religious guidance spread throughout the land. Education and healthcare were made free of charge, and large sums were devoted to supporting students. Scholarships abroad multiplied in every field — military, police, medical, literary, social, economic, and legal. The people, in great numbers, eagerly embraced learning and development, striving to build a refined society that honors its mission: upholding Islam, preserving the sanctity of the holy land, and advancing in civilization without abandoning moral and religious principles.
The achievements of the past years are too numerous to count. What has been accomplished in such a short time would normally require generations in the lives of nations. Among these achievements is the flourishing of the press — newspapers and journals of science, literature, military affairs, commerce, and more — including this very publication, proudly bearing a noble name and reviving the heritage of ancient Arab culture, reminiscent of the historic “Souq ‘Ukāẓ.”
Major Religious and Urban Achievements
His Majesty rebuilt and expanded the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, renewed the structures of al‑Ṣafā and al‑Marwah, and renovated the Sacred Mosque in Mecca. He devoted immense resources — countless millions — to strengthening the Holy Kaaba and improving the sacred sites. No ruler in fourteen centuries had undertaken such monumental work except Saud ibn Abdulaziz, may God preserve him.
Municipalities in Mecca, Riyadh, and other cities advanced rapidly in organization and development, earning praise from visitors and pilgrims alike. Roads, shelters, water stations, hotels, and facilities for pilgrims were built on an unprecedented scale. Despite the massive crowds, transportation and movement became safe and orderly, allowing pilgrims to perform their rites in peace.
The contrast between the hardships of past centuries — as described by Ibn Battuta and Ibn Jubayr — and the comfort of the present era is striking. Water, once sold for a dinar, now flows freely and cold, provided by the state at no cost.
Security reached exemplary levels. Lost valuables remained untouched until their owners returned — a testament to the enforcement of Islamic law and the moral integrity of society.
Economic and Social Development
The government invested heavily in agriculture, industry, mining, and production, striving for national self‑sufficiency in food, clothing, and medicine. It extended generous assistance to Arab and Muslim nations in need, embodying the Qur’anic principle: “The believers are but brothers.”
His Majesty revived the tradition of meeting with delegations from across the Islamic world during the annual pilgrimage season, supporting the Muslim World League, strengthening bonds of unity, and promoting cooperation in religious, cultural, and social matters.
His unwavering support for the causes of Arabs and Muslims — in Palestine, Algeria, Oman, and elsewhere — became a hallmark of his reign. He offered assistance without seeking praise, seeking only the reward promised by God.
A Closing Reflection
“Say: Work, and God will see your deeds, and His Messenger, and the believers…”
“If God guides through you even one person, it is better for you than the finest of treasures.”
Such was the path of King Saud — in his nation and beyond it — giving generously for the sake of God, striving for the uplift of his people, and seeking the reward of the Hereafter.
The text concludes with a prayer that God support the King, prolong his life, and strengthen his partnership with Crown Prince Faisal — described as the wise leader, steadfast pillar, and skilled statesman — and that God unite the Arabs and Muslims and protect them from their enemies.