MBS is the name that has become synonymous with change and modernization in Saudi Arabia. As the Crown Prince of the Kingdom he has been at the helm of many of the changes that have rebranded the country both domestically and internationally. This blog will follow the journey of MBS, his vision for Saudi Arabia and the changes he has made.
MBS: The Leader
MBS was born on August 31, 1985 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He is the son of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and his third wife Fahda bint Falah Al Hithlain. MBS was educated in Saudi Arabia where he graduated from King Saud University with a Law degree. From a young age MBS was interested in politics and leadership which set the tone for his future as Crown Prince.
The Rise
In 2015 when King Salman became King MBS rose rapidly up the ranks. He was appointed as Minister of Defence, one of the youngest Defence Ministers in the world. In 2017 King Salman named MBS as Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia replacing his cousin Mohammed bin Nayef. This cemented MBS’s position as next in line to the Saudi throne.
Vision 2030: Mohammed bin Salman’s Plan for the Future
What is Vision 2030?
One of the biggest projects of Mohammed bin Salman is Vision 2030. This is a big plan to diversify the Saudi economy, reduce the dependence on oil and develop sectors like tourism, entertainment and technology. Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 will turn Saudi into a global business and innovation hub.
Objectives of Vision 2030
Under Mohammed bin Salman’s supervision:
- Economic Diversification: Mohammed bin Salman wants to reduce Saudi’s dependence on oil by promoting tourism and technology.
- Social Reforms: Mohammed bin Salman has brought about big social changes, including allowing women to drive and attend public events like concerts and sports.
- Cultural Change: MBS is opening up Saudi to the world by promoting culture and entertainment which was previously banned.
Mohammed bin Salman’s Social Reforms
Women
One of the most popular reforms under Mohammed bin Salman is the empowerment of women. In 2018 Saudi lifted the ban on women driving, a move that was widely welcomed in the Kingdom and globally. MBS has also encouraged more women to join the workforce to increase their participation in the labour market.
Youth
With over 60% of Saudi’s population under 30, Mohammed bin Salman has focused on youth. He has launched initiatives to encourage entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity among young Saudis. Mohammed bin Salman believes the youth are the future of Saudi and they are key to achieving Vision 2030.
Economic Reforms and Challenges
The Saudi Aramco IPO
In 2019 under Mohammed bin Salman’s supervision, Saudi Aramco, the world’s biggest oil company went public. The Initial Public Offering (IPO) was a big step in Mohammed bin Salman’s plan to diversify the economy. The IPO will raise funds to support Vision 2030 projects.
Challenges of Mohammed bin Salman
Despite the big plans, MBS has many challenges. The global oil market’s volatility, geopolitical tensions and social acceptance of reforms are big obstacles. However, Mohammed bin Salman remains committed to his vision of making Saudi Arabia modern and prosperous.
Mohammed bin Salman’s Global Relations
With the West
Mohammed bin Salman has worked to strengthen Saudi’s ties with Western countries especially the United States. He has stressed the importance of strategic partnerships in areas like defense, trade and investment. Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the U.S. in 2018 was a new chapter in Saudi-U.S. relations.
Regional Influence
MBS Mohammed bin Salman has also sought to increase Saudi’s influence in the Middle East. He has taken a firm stance on regional issues like Yemen and Iran. MBS focuses his foreign policy on securing Saudi Arabia and leading the region.
The Future of Saudi Arabia under Mohammed bin Salman
A Kingdom in Transformation
Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership marks a new era for Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom is undergoing rapid changes, and Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 is at the heart of this transformation.
The modernization efforts, economic diversification, and social reforms are setting the stage for a new Saudi Arabia, one that is more open, innovative, and globally competitive.
Mohammed bin Salman’s Legacy
As MBS continues to implement his vision, his legacy is already taking shape. People see him as a reformer who challenges the status quo to achieve his goals.
However, the success of Mohammed bin Salman’s initiatives will depend on his ability to navigate the challenges ahead and maintain the support of the Saudi people.
Conclusion
Mohammed bin Salman is undoubtedly one of the most influential leaders in modern Saudi Arabia. His vision, determination, and willingness to embrace change have set him apart as a leader committed to transforming the Kingdom.
Through Vision 2030, Mohammed bin Salman aims to create a thriving, diversified economy and a more open society. As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve under his leadership, the world watches closely, eager to see what the future holds for the Kingdom and its modern prince, MBS .
