The mountains in the western part of the Kingdom are very rich in minerals, containing large deposits of limestone, gypsum, and sand. The eastern region is home to the richest oil fields in the world. The climate in Saudi Arabia varies greatly according to region. The Kingdom's Red Sea coast has a sub-equatorial climate. The summer is hot and humid and the winter mild with light rains between November and February.
Rainfall is light and occurs primarily during the winter season.
King Fahd has taken historic steps to revise the Kingdom's political and administrative system. In addition, for the first time, the rules of succession to become Head of State were put into writing and formalized. New bylaws were also introduced for the Council of Ministers. The Majlis Al-Shura, which was initially composed of 60 prominent members of Saudi social, political, and religious life, was expanded to 90 members in 1997. The Majlis Al-Shura advises the King and the Council of Ministers on a regular basis on matters pertaining to government programs and policies.