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Saudi king hits French beach, with 1,000 people in tow

A general view of the public beach called “La Mirandole” which is seen below the villa owned by the king of Saudi Arabia in Vallauris – Golf Juan, France, July 18, 2015.

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Beach access is normally open in France, and tensions often flare when towns close them off partially by granting concessions for firms offering rentals of parasols and chairs.

A petition against the so-called “privatisation” of the beach has garnered more than 100,000 signatures.

The ban had previously been scheduled to take effect when the king arrives later Saturday, but was brought forward to prevent an occupation of the beach before its controversial closure.

Two Saudi Arabian Airlines Boeing 747s arrived on Saturday evening at Nice airport with King Salman and his entourage on board.

The king’s inner-circle is staying at the villa – between Antibes – while about 700 others will stay at accommodations in Cannes.

“We ask their state to ensure the fundamental theory of the equality of inhabitants prior to the regulation”.

Access to the small beach is due to be closed to the public for security measures during the summer holiday stay of Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and his entourage.

Michel Chevillon, president of a of CannesWI motel managers, said the visit was ” plainly good announcement ” for motels and also the regional economy. However, local officials in Vallauris intervened and stopped the illegal construction.

He has written to French President Francois Hollande to object against unauthorised work done by the Saudis on the beach outside the property.

“We understand the security reasons and the nation’s greater interest”.

A cement platform was also poured on the beach for an elevator up to the villa. “But nobody can exonerate himself from the laws of the land”, Michelle Salucki wrote. Local authorities acquiesced on condition the elevator is removed after the visit.

“We’re exhausted and tired of this fooling ” one nearby female stated, estimated by AFP organization.

“These are people with purchasing-power that was excellent”, he said.

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” they should let us get a move, although I could notice itis not abnormal that you might want to guarantee their stability”.

French Riviera