In 2007, Saudi Arabia made significant strides in its development plans, focusing on raising living standards, improving quality of life, and diversifying the economic base. These efforts led to increased contributions from producing sectors to the GDP, enhanced productivity, and greater competitiveness of Saudi products domestically and internationally. Major infrastructure projects were completed, expanding education, health, and social services qualitatively. The growth in public-private partnerships and the commencement of six new economic cities, led by King Abdullah Economic City, marked a substantial shift in the national economy. The Saudi economy achieved a real growth rate of 4.4% in 2008, with per capita GDP rising by 17.9% to SR 97,029. Gross investment grew from SR 211,267 million in 2006 to SR 249,967 million in 2007, reflecting an 18.3% increase and generating new job opportunities.