Saudi Arabia has slapped restrictions on export licences for cement companies in an attempt to ensure enough resources to fuel the kingdom’s construction boom. This move is seen as a precautionary measure in view of the huge demand for cement from major projects in Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah. And the decree issued by King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz to build 5,00,000 housing units for the poor has also generated unprecedented demand for cement. The country has set some terms and conditions for those producers who want to export cement. The restriction would ensure adequate supply and stock in the domestic market at a price of 200 Saudi riyals per tonne and 10 riyal per bag. If any company fulfils these conditions, then the state will allow it to export the surplus quantity. The export restrictions aimed at maintaining the stability of the local market, which is witnessing huge demand for cement for the ongoing development projects, especially in the Makkah Region. Several development projects are under various phases of implementation in the holy city. These included the expansion of the Haram Mosque and Jabal Omar Project.