Mapping the Kingdom
An in-depth exploration of Saudi Arabia's administrative framework, focusing on its governorates and their role in governance.
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Overview
Administrative Structure
The governorates of Saudi Arabia represent the second-tier administrative divisions within the Kingdom. They are established under the Provinces System, serving as crucial units for local governance and administration across the nation. Each governorate operates under the purview of its respective first-level province.
Key Details
Native Name: محافظات المملكة العربية السعودية (Muḥāfaẓāt al-Mamlakah al-ʻArabīyah as-Saʻūdīyah)
Country: Saudi Arabia[1]
Number: 136 (as of 2012)
Established: 1992
Administered by: Governors
Geographic Context
These governorates are integral to the administrative map of Saudi Arabia, falling under the jurisdiction of the Kingdom's 13 first-level provinces. They ensure localized administration and service delivery, reflecting the country's vast geography and diverse population centers.
Classification System
Categorization Criteria
Governorates are systematically categorized into three distinct levels. This classification is determined by a combination of factors, including population density, the availability and accessibility of public services, specific geographic and environmental conditions, prevailing security considerations, and the robustness of transportation infrastructure.
The Three Tiers
The established categories are:
- Capital (Amānah): This designation is reserved for the administrative capital of each province.
- Category A: Governorates meeting specific criteria for development and services.
- Category B: Governorates that form the remaining administrative units.
This tiered system was formally established in Article 3 of the Provinces System, initially issued in 1992 and subsequently amended in 1993.[1][2]
Historical Development
Genesis of the System
The foundational framework for the governorates, known as the Provinces System, was enacted in 1992 via a royal order issued by King Fahd. At its inception, the system comprised 118 governorates, designed to decentralize governmental authority and enhance administrative efficiency by empowering local leadership.
Expansion and Evolution
In 2012, under the reign of King Abdullah, the number of governorates was expanded to 136. This increase reflected the Kingdom's demographic growth and evolving geographical needs, ensuring the administrative structure remained relevant and effective across its expanding territories.[3]
Governance Structure
Appointed Leadership
Each governorate is headed by a governor, officially titled muḥāfiẓ. This position is appointed directly by royal decree, ensuring a high level of authority and direct connection to the central government. A deputy governor typically assists the governor in managing the administrative affairs of the governorate.
Local Centers
Further subdividing the governorates are administrative units known as centers (مر اكز - marākiz), also referred to as sub-governorates. These centers are crucial for local service delivery, acting as the primary interface between the populace and the administrative structure, and coordinating effectively with provincial authorities.[2]
Comprehensive List of Governorates
Saudi Arabia's Administrative Divisions
Below is a detailed listing of the governorates within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, categorized by their respective provinces, along with population data from the 2010 census. This table provides a granular view of the administrative landscape.
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References
References
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. The data regarding population figures and specific administrative boundaries are subject to change and official verification.
This is not official government information or legal advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for official government documentation, legal consultation, or professional advice. Always refer to official Saudi Arabian government sources for the most current and accurate administrative and legal information. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.