Governor of Mecca
The Governor of Mecca, officially the Emir of Mecca, is the head of government of Mecca Province and represents the King of Saudi Arabia in the province. The governor is the highest-ranking official in Mecca Province and holds broad authority over its administration, security, and development. The officeholder supervises the work of the Holy Mecca Municipality and also serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the Royal Commission for Mecca City and Holy Sites.
History
In 1916, while the Ottoman Empire was still engaged in World War I, the Arab Revolt was launched against Ottoman rule in the Arabian Peninsula. As a result of the revolt, Hussein bin Ali of the Hashemite dynasty proclaimed the Kingdom of Hejaz, ending centuries of Ottoman authority in the region.The kingdom was internationally recognized in 1920, but its independence was short-lived. From 1924 to 1925, it was conquered by the Third Saudi State during the Saudi conquest of Hejaz, leading to the exile of the Hashemite dynasty to Cyprus.
Following the annexation, Abdulaziz Ibn Saud unified Hejaz with his Najdi domains, creating the Kingdom of Hejaz and Nejd in 1927 as a dual monarchy under his leadership.
During this period, Faisal bin Abdulaziz, who would later become king, served as Viceroy of Hejaz, an administrative role that eventually evolved into the modern office of the Governor of Mecca.
In 1932, the Kingdom of Hejaz and Nejd was officially unified and renamed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Functions of the Governor
- Representing the authority of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in the province.
- Ensure the Justice to the citizens of the province.
- Works to maintain security in the province.
- Provides the all services to the citizens of the province.
- Work on the development of the province.
- Appoints the important officials of the provincial authority including the Deputy Governor
- Ensure the effectiveness of law and order in the province.