Mohammed bin Salman has rapidly transformed Saudi Arabia since becoming a key government figure in 2015. Under his leadership, the kingdom is shifting from oil dependency towards diversification, emphasizing tourism and technology. His Vision 2030 initiative aims to modernize the economy and improve women’s rights, though concerns about human rights abuses and repression persist. Despite advancements, such as allowing women to drive, his tenure has been marred by violence and severe penalties for dissent.
Ten years ago, Mohammed bin Salman embarked on his journey in government leadership, quickly establishing himself as the dominant figure in Saudi Arabia. His approach has been described as both vigorous and unforgiving, marking a significant transformation within the nation.
In January 2015, a wave of surprise washed over the international community when King Salman appointed his son as the Minister of Defense. At just 29 years old, Mohammed bin Salman was relatively unknown on the global stage, yet he rapidly ascended to the position of Crown Prince and, later, Prime Minister by 2022, largely due to his father’s declining health and his own political maneuvers.
As the de facto leader, he has initiated an ambitious and sweeping overhaul of the kingdom, reshaping its future in remarkable ways.
Transitioning from Oil Dependency
Recognizing the impending challenges posed by the decline of the oil era, he famously stated, “Our constitution is based on the Quran and oil. That is very dangerous,” during a 2016 interview. This acknowledgment sparked a movement away from the kingdom’s reliance on oil, a dependency that has stifled the growth of alternative economic sectors.
To secure sustainable revenue streams, Saudi Arabia is shifting its focus towards developing industries such as tourism and entertainment. The profits from current oil sales are set to fund this vital economic diversification, with a notable commitment of $100 billion earmarked for advancements in artificial intelligence and other innovative technologies by 2024.
Amidst these changes, human rights advocates have raised concerns regarding Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 World Cup.
Vision 2030: A Blueprint for the Future
Saudi Arabia has set its sights on becoming a leader in the global video game industry with a $38 billion budget aimed for completion by 2030. This shift requires a cultural transformation in a nation previously known for its ultra-conservative values, particularly to engage its increasingly restless youth.
In 2016, Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as MbS, unveiled ‘Vision 2030’, a strategic plan designed to facilitate the kingdom’s transition away from oil dependency. A flagship component of this initiative is the creation of Neom, a futuristic megacity projected to cost $500 billion, featuring residential areas, industrial parks, and even a ski resort. However, financial constraints have led to a significant trimming of the project’s original scope.
Notably, Saudi Arabia became the last country to lift the ban on women driving, marking a significant step towards gender equality.
Advancements in Women’s Rights
The Vision 2030 plan also emphasizes the importance of increasing the percentage of working women. The year 2018 was particularly transformative for Saudi women, as the rigid dress codes began to relax, allowing for greater personal expression.
In a CBS interview, Mohammed bin Salman articulated that Sharia law mandates decency in dress for both men and women but clarified that it does not necessitate a black headscarf. Women were allowed to drive starting in June 2018 and gained the ability to travel without male guardian approval shortly after. Many segregation laws were also abolished, a series of reforms initiated by the Crown Prince.
However, the situation remains complex, as activists who championed these rights are still imprisoned. The ruling family aims to bestow freedoms rather than fostering a democratic society governed by the rule of law.
A Complex Legacy
During his tenure, the number of executions surged, with critics facing severe penalties for dissent, including lengthy prison sentences for merely expressing opinions on social media. The case of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who was murdered in 2018, casts a long shadow over Mohammed bin Salman’s rule. Although he condemned the act as a “heinous crime,” it is widely believed he was linked to the incident, as suggested by intelligence reports.
Over the past decade, Mohammed bin Salman has wielded considerable influence, embodying a paradoxical blend of modernization and oppression. While he has made strides in improving women’s rights and reintroducing cultural events like cinemas and concerts, his administration has simultaneously been marked by violence and repression against dissenters. His modernization efforts, though significant, have unfolded under the guise of an authoritarian regime.