19-04-2024 11:05 AM Jerusalem Timing

Saudi King Replaces Housing Minister, Head of Royal Court

Saudi King Replaces Housing Minister, Head of Royal Court

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman has appointed a new housing minister and replaced the head of his royal court in the latest government shakeup.

KSASaudi Arabia's King Salman has appointed a new housing minister and replaced the head of his royal court in the latest government shakeup.

As the new housing minister, Majed al-Hoqail is tasked with ensuring greater access to affordable housing for millions of Saudis who complain that low wages and high property prices have left them unable to buy a home.

Al-Hogail was previously CEO of Rafal Real Estate Development Co.

King Salman also replaced Hamad al-Sweillam as the head of his royal court with Khaled al-Issa. He previously was deputy to the once-influential Khaled al-Tuwaijri, who headed the royal court under the late King Abdullah. The post is seen as powerful because it serves as gatekeeper to the monarch.

The government shakeup was announced in Saudi state media on Monday.