Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, known as MBS, is the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia. He is the son of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and the grandson of the nation’s founder, King Abdulaziz. Born in 1985 in Riyadh, he got a law degree from King Saud University.
In 2009, he became an advisor to his father. By 2015, he was deputy crown prince and defense minister after his father took the throne. In 2017, he took over as crown prince, succeeding his cousin Muhammad bin Nayef.
Since then, MBS has made big changes. He has reduced the power of the Wahhabi religious group, improved women’s rights, and started the Saudi Vision 2030 program. This program aims to make the economy less dependent on oil.
But, his rule has also seen tough actions against critics and the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. MBS has also played a big part in the Yemen conflict and the Qatar crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, known as MBS, is the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia.
- He has introduced a series of social and economic reforms, including curtailing the influence of the Wahhabi religious establishment, improving women’s rights, and launching the Saudi Vision 2030 program.
- However, his rule has also been marked by an authoritarian crackdown on dissidents and the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
- MBS has led Saudi Arabia’s intervention in the Yemen conflict and been involved in the Qatar diplomatic crisis.
- He has consolidated power and become the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia.
Early Life and Education
Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud, known as MBS, was born on August 31, 1985, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He is the first child of Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the current King of Saudi Arabia, and his third wife, Fahda bint Falah Al Hithlain. As the eighth child and seventh son, MBS grew up in a famous royal family with a big role in the country’s leadership.
Childhood and Family Background
Mohammad bin Salman was exposed to the Saudi royal family and government early on. His father, King Salman, held important roles like Governor of Riyadh Province and Minister of Defense before becoming king in 2015. This background helped shape MBS‘s view of Saudi Arabia’s challenges and complexities.
Studies at King Saud University
- Mohammad bin Salman then went to King Saud University in Riyadh for his higher education. He earned a law degree in 2007.
- At the university, MBS was a top student, ranking second in his class.
- His academic success and royal background set the stage for Mohammad bin Salman‘s future power and influence in the Saudi government.
“My father always taught me that if I wanted to achieve something in life, I had to work hard, be patient and never give up.”
Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud‘s early life and education have greatly influenced his path to becoming a key figure in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
Rise to Power
After finishing at King Saud University, Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud, or MBS, worked in the private sector for a while. At 24, in 2009, he became a special adviser to his father, King Salman, when Salman was the governor of Riyadh Province.
As King Salman became more powerful, becoming Crown Prince in 2012 and then King in 2015, MBS grew in power too. In 2015, King Salman made MBS the Minister of Defense. He kept this job until 2022, when he became Prime Minister.
Advisor to His Father, King Salman
As an adviser to his father, MBS learned a lot about the Saudi Arabian government and the Council of Ministers. Being close to King Salman helped MBS grow his power in the royal family and Saudi Arabian politics.
Appointment as Minister of Defense
In 2015, King Salman named MBS the Minister of Defense. This job made him in charge of the military. It also made him even more powerful in the Saudi Arabian government.
Intervention in Yemen Conflict
In 2015, Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud (also known as MBS) became the new Defense Minister. He led a bold move into Yemen’s civil war. This war started in 2014 between the Yemeni government and the Houthi rebels. The Houthi group was linked to Iran, a rival of Saudi Arabia.
Operation Decisive Storm
The Saudi-led “Operation Decisive Storm” was launched to help the Yemeni government fight the Houthi rebels. But, this move didn’t end the war. Instead, it led to a long stalemate and a huge humanitarian crisis.
Ongoing Military Campaign
MBS has kept the Saudi-led military effort in Yemen going. There’s no end in sight. The war has faced global criticism for its effect on civilians. The United Nations calls it the world’s worst humanitarian disaster.
MBS still backs the military action. He sees it as key to fight Iranian influence and protect the Saudi-backed Yemeni government.
“The operation is to protect the people of Yemen and its legitimate government from the Houthi militias.”
– Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud, on the launch of Operation Decisive Storm
Economic Vision and Reforms
Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud, known as MBS, has led major economic changes in Saudi Arabia. He oversees the state oil company Aramco and the Council of Economic and Developmental Affairs. This council is key in making economic development policies.
Saudi Vision 2030
MBS’s main project is the Saudi Vision 2030. This plan aims to lessen the country’s oil dependence and grow its economy. It plans to draw in foreign investment, start new industries, and update the kingdom’s infrastructure and services.
Diversification Efforts
MBS wants to make Aramco, the biggest oil company, public through an IPO. Despite delays, he keeps pushing to diversify the economy. The kingdom is investing in tourism, renewable energy, and tech to lessen oil exports.
| Initiative | Target | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Aramco IPO | Raise funds for economic diversification | Repeatedly delayed |
| Tourism sector development | Attract foreign visitors and investment | Ongoing efforts |
| Renewable energy projects | Reduce reliance on oil, promote sustainability | Significant progress made |
Some of MBS’s economic plans have hit hurdles, but his drive to diversify the economy is key. His efforts to lessen oil dependence will define the kingdom’s future and its global position.
Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud noteworthy
In recent years, Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud, often called MBS, has become a key figure in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. He is seen as the de facto ruler of the kingdom. He has brought in big social and economic changes, making him known as a ruthless reformer.
One big achievement of MBS was lifting the ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia. This move was seen as a big step towards equality for women. He also limited the power of the religious police, known as the “Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.” This move helped reduce strict religious rules on the people.
MBS started the Saudi Vision 2030 program. This plan aims to make the Saudi economy less dependent on oil. It includes plans to grow new industries like tourism and entertainment. It also focuses on investing in renewable energy and technology.
But, MBS’s rule has faced a lot of criticism. His authoritarian crackdown on dissidents has been widely criticized. The high-profile assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul was a major controversy. His aggressive foreign policy has also caused problems, like the intervention in the Yemen conflict and the Qatar diplomatic crisis. This has made him known as a decisive and assertive leader.
Despite the criticism, MBS has strengthened his position. He is still a major player in Saudi and regional affairs. As the young crown prince, his choices will greatly affect the region and the world.
Social Reforms
During his time as Crown Prince, Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud, known as MBS, has made big changes in Saudi Arabia. He focused on reducing the power of the religious police and improving women’s rights.
Curbing Religious Police Powers
MBS reduced the authority of the religious police, known as the “Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.” This group was often seen as too powerful, taking away personal freedoms. Thanks to MBS, they now have less power, giving people more freedom and making Saudi Arabia more progressive.
Lifting the Ban on Women Driving
In 2018, MBS made a big move by allowing women to drive. This was a huge step towards equality and empowering women in a very conservative country. Women could now get driver’s licenses and drive without needing a man’s okay.
But, not everyone is happy with these changes. Some women’s rights activists feel the reforms don’t go far enough. They want more freedom and equality.
“The decision to allow women to drive is not a political one, but a social and economic one, and it is fit with the kingdom’s vision 2030, which aims to boost the economy and improve the livelihood of the people.”
– Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud
Anti-Corruption Purge
Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, made a bold move in 2017. He launched an anti-corruption purge to tackle widespread corruption. Dozens of Saudi princes, business leaders, and senior officials were detained. These included some of the country’s wealthiest and most influential people.
The Saudi government said the purge aimed to fight corruption and rebuild trust. But many saw it as MBS trying to remove rivals and strengthen his rule.
This anti-corruption campaign was a first in Saudi history. The government took in more than $100 billion from those detained. Detained figures had to give up some control of their businesses or pay large sums to be released.
The Impact of the Purge
The purge had big effects on Saudi Arabia. Many top business leaders and royal family members were in danger. MBS was tightening his control and getting rid of potential threats.
The purge showed the Saudi public that MBS was serious about fighting corruption. He wants to modernize the kingdom’s economy and government, following his Vision 2030 plan.
“The purge was a bold move by MBS to solidify his power and reshape the Saudi political landscape.”
The effects of the anti-corruption campaign are still being seen. It has changed the power balance in the Saudi ruling elite. Prince Mohammed bin Salman is now the clear leader of the kingdom.
Foreign Policy
Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud, or MBS, has greatly influenced the kingdom’s foreign policy. He was a key figure in the Qatar diplomatic crisis that started in 2017.
MBS led a bold move by blocking Qatar diplomatically and economically. He claimed Qatar supported terrorism and had close ties with Iran. This action caused tension within the Gulf Cooperation Council, a group of Arab states. The blockade lasted for years, showing Saudi Arabia’s strong stance under MBS’s leadership.
Khashoggi Case
The Jamal Khashoggi case is another major issue linked to MBS. In 2018, the dissident journalist was killed at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey. The CIA found that MBS ordered the killing, causing widespread outrage and harming Saudi Arabia’s reputation worldwide.
“The Khashoggi case was a defining moment that highlighted the Crown Prince’s authoritarian tendencies and the risks associated with his consolidation of power.”
The Khashoggi case led to a big diplomatic crisis. Turkey’s President Erdogan pushed for justice and truth about the murder. This event showed the challenges MBS faced in managing Saudi Arabia’s foreign relations globally.
Consolidation of Power
Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud (MBS), the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, made big moves to become the real ruler after 2017. He took over as Crown Prince, replacing his cousin Muhammad bin Nayef.
In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, MBS took even more control. He locked up other Saudi royals, like Ahmad, the king’s brother, and Muhammad bin Nayef, the former Crown Prince he had ousted.
Appointment as Crown Prince
In June 2017, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud named his son Mohammad bin Salman as the future king. This move made MBS the top person in power, replacing Muhammad bin Nayef.
2020 Royal Crackdown
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, MBS used the crisis to strengthen his rule. He arrested many princes, including some near the throne. This action made sure he was the only one in charge of Saudi Arabia.
“The 2020 royal crackdown was a clear message from MBS that he would not tolerate any challenges to his power. He was willing to go to great lengths to eliminate potential rivals and solidify his control over the kingdom.”
Global Economic Influence
As the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud, or MBS, has a big impact on the global economy. The COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict have made MBS a key figure worldwide.
Oil Prices and Inflation
MBS controls a lot of Saudi Arabia’s oil. This lets him change global oil prices. During the pandemic and war, his oil decisions affected inflation everywhere. Saudi Arabia is a big oil producer. This lets MBS use his power to help with global inflation.
Normalization Efforts
MBS has worked to improve relations with the Biden administration. He also wanted to make peace with Israel, but needed the U.S. to agree on certain conditions. When that didn’t work out, he turned to China. China helped Saudi Arabia and Iran make peace in 2023.
MBS is great at making big moves in the world economy. He makes important alliances and uses Saudi Arabia’s oil power to his advantage.
| Country | Ties with MBS | Key Developments |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Tensions initially, but efforts to mend ties | Conditional normalization efforts with Israel |
| China | Strengthened ties as alternative to the U.S. | Mediated deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran |
| Russia | Maintained neutral stance, avoiding direct confrontation | Leveraged oil production to address global inflation |
| Turkey | Mended ties with President Erdogan after Khashoggi incident | Collaborated on regional security and economic initiatives |
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Conclusion
Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud is a key figure in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. He has brought big changes with his social and economic reforms. At the same time, he has tightened his grip on power and taken a stronger stance in foreign policy.
His time in office has seen both good and bad, as he aims to make Saudi Arabia a major player. But, his actions have made many around the world take notice and criticize him. This shows the tough spot he’s in as he tries to lead the country forward.
As MBS leads Saudi Arabia, the world is watching closely. Everyone is curious to see if his big plans will make the country rich and influential on the global stage.
FAQs
Q: What notable achievements has Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud accomplished since becoming crown prince in 2015?
A: Since his meteoric rise to the throne in 2015, Mohammad bin Salman has spearheaded various reforms in Saudi Arabia, including the Vision 2030 initiative which aims to diversify the economy and make the kingdom less reliant on oil.
Q: How has Mohammad bin Salman addressed the ban on cinemas in Saudi Arabia?
A: The crown prince has also lifted the ban on cinemas, allowing for the establishment of theaters across the country, which has contributed to cultural diversification and entertainment options for residents and tourists alike.
Q: What is the significance of NEOM in Mohammad bin Salman’s vision for Saudi Arabia?
A: NEOM is a key part of the Vision 2030 initiative, envisioned as a futuristic mega-city that aims to attract investment and innovation, and serve as a model for sustainable living and urban development in the region.
Q: How has Mohammad bin Salman’s foreign policy shifted since taking office?
A: The crown prince has adopted a far more aggressive foreign policy to counter the influence of regional rivals, engaging in various diplomatic efforts and military interventions, including the ongoing war in Yemen.
Q: What has been the impact of Mohammad bin Salman’s policies on Saudi Arabia’s ties with Israel?
A: Under his leadership, there have been notable advancements in Saudi Arabia’s ties with Israel, as the crown prince seeks to forge alliances in the face of common threats, particularly in relation to Iran.
Q: How has the crown prince responded to the regional challenges posed by Recep Tayyip Erdoğan?
A: Mohammad bin Salman has pursued an aggressive foreign policy to counter the influence of regional rival Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, focusing on strengthening alliances with Gulf countries and other powers.
Q: In what ways has Saudi Arabia been affected by global events, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine?
A: The crown prince has been navigating the complexities of global events like Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has impacted oil prices and energy markets, prompting Saudi Arabia to reassess its economic strategies.
Q: What role has Al Jazeera played in shaping public perception of Mohammad bin Salman’s achievements?
A: Al Jazeera has been influential in covering the crown prince’s reforms and initiatives, shaping both domestic and international perceptions of his leadership and the changes occurring in Saudi Arabia.
Q: How has Mohammad bin Salman’s leadership affected foreign investment in Saudi Arabia?
A: The crown prince’s reforms, including the Vision 2030 initiative, have led to increased foreign investment, with a number of firms looking to establish a presence in the kingdom, fostering economic growth and diversification.
Source Links
- https://www.britannica.com/biography/Mohammed-bin-Salman
- https://english.aawsat.com/home/article/1308246/mohammed-bin-salman-year-crown-prince-and-achievements
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohammed_bin_Salman
