Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s drive to reshape Saudi Arabia • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• Economic Diversification: Reducing reliance on oil by developing other sectors like tourism and private enterprise.
• Social Reforms: Modernizing societal norms, including changes to women's rights and the role of religious police.
• Soft Power: Using cultural and sporting influence to enhance international image.
• Sports Washing: Accusation of using sports to distract from human rights concerns.
• Consolidation of Power: Centralizing authority and eliminating potential rivals.
• Corruption Purge: Campaign against corruption, with dual interpretations of its motives.

Muhammad bin Salman's Transformation of Saudi Arabia

Muhammad bin Salman (NBS) is widely recognized for spearheading Saudi Arabia's modernization into the 21st century. As the kingdom's de facto ruler, he has significantly reshaped its economy, society, and global image, while maintaining a strong hold on power.

Economic Reforms and Diversification

A primary objective of NBS's agenda is to diversify the Saudi economy away from its heavy dependence on oil. This involves fostering the growth of the private sector and developing a robust tourism industry. Projections indicate non-oil revenue reaching up to $160 billion by 2020 and $267 billion by 2030, partly driven by diversified investments. In 2024, Saudi Arabia attracted a record 30 million foreign tourists, drawing private capital into sectors such as hotels, entertainment, and heritage sites.

Social Reforms

Social reform has been a cornerstone of NBS's leadership. Key changes include:

• 2016: Stripping the religious police of their powers.
• 2018: Permitting public entertainment, such as cinemas.
• Policy Changes: Women no longer require male guardian permission to work, travel, or participate in society. The ban on women driving was also lifted.

Consolidation of Power and Corruption Purge

Shortly after becoming Crown Prince, NBS initiated a significant purge targeting princes, businesses, and government officials, ostensibly to combat corruption. However, many observers interpreted this as a strategic move to eliminate rivals and consolidate his authority.

Human Rights Concerns and Criticisms

In stark contrast to the social reforms, there has been a surge in executions during NBS's tenure. Reports of crackdowns on dissent, arbitrary arrests, unfair trials, and forced labor are also prevalent.

Sports and Soft Power

The realm of sports has been instrumental in NBS's efforts to rebrand Saudi Arabia and project soft power. This includes the establishment of a golf league, the recruitment of prominent football players, and the acquisition of stadiums. The bid for the 2034 World Cup is framed as an "invitation to the world to witness Saudi Arabia's development, experience its welcoming society, culture, and heritage, and become part of its history." Critics, however, accuse the country of "sports washing," using sports to divert attention from its human rights record.

Jamal Khashoggi Murder and Diplomatic Impact

The 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi continues to cast a shadow over Saudi Arabia's diplomatic relations. This is particularly true following a US intelligence report that concluded NBS had approved Khashoggi's murder, despite repeated denials of any involvement.

Conclusion

Muhammad bin Salman's leadership has been characterized by ambitious reforms aimed at modernizing Saudi Arabia's economy and society, while simultaneously consolidating his power. While significant strides have been made in economic diversification and social liberalization, these advancements are juxtaposed with persistent concerns regarding human rights and the lingering impact of the Jamal Khashoggi assassination. The strategic use of sports to enhance the kingdom's global standing is also a prominent aspect of his approach, though it faces accusations of being a form of "sports washing."