التوزيع المكاني للسكان و التنمية في المملكة العربية السعودية 1394 ه-1413 ه

Abstract EN

This study discusses changes in the spatial distribution of population in Saudi Arabia (1394-1413) by analysing the factors responsible for the resulting distribution at both the regional and local levels.

Research data were obtained from the 1394 and 1413 population censuses .

Since changes in the spatial distribution of population in Saudi Arabia are directly related to acheivements in socioeconomic development the country during the last two decades, certain developmental variables were used in the analysis to determine the degree of their impact onpopulation distribution.

Data analysis and findings indicate an increase in the level of population concentration between 1394-1413H.whereby 64% of the country's population in 1413 lived in three regions: Makkah , Riyadh and Eastren particularaly in the cities of Riyadh Jeddah , Makkah, Dammam and Taif as compared with 56% of the country population who where living in these three regions in 1394.

Statistical analysis showed a strong relationship between the distribution of population among regions and several socio-economic variables particularly the distribution of the laboer force , expatriates , urban centers and industrial establishments.

In order to acheive a better spatial distribution of population in the future and avoid, problems associated with population concentaration, this study recommends the delegation of some functions and activities in major urban centers to medium and small towns all over the country by increasing investments in such places provided that they are viable to growth.