The quantitative evolution of housing provision in Saudi Arabia, 1970-1995 : from acute shortage to excess supply

Abstract EN

Saudi Arabia has recently passed through a period of exceptionally rapid development in many economic and social fields.

Five five-year development plans were put into action over the period 1970-1995, and those plans formed the basis for programs of development which have produced dramatic changes in many sectors.

A review of the economic and demographic changes, including a study of successes achieved and problems encountered, can provide guidance for the further development of Saudi Arabia as well as lessons for any other country experiencing a similar economic boom with a parallel population growth.

Within the overall context of Saudi development, this paper reviews the stages that the housing provision in the country has passed through over the period 1970-1995, it studies those stages and, finally, it draws relevant lessons for the future.

On some matters, comparison is made with similar situations in other countries.