Reforming Saudi Arabia: A Look at MBS’s Changes

When President Donald Trump selected Saudi Arabia as his first destination during his new term, it underscored the attention on ongoing changes in the nation. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) is set to visit the White House soon, and it’s interesting to note that he turns 40 this month, marking a decade in power.

One of the most noticeable transformations has been in women’s rights. In a nation with over 20 million people, women can now drive and travel without the need for male guardians. They are increasingly taking on roles in law, aviation, diplomacy, and even academia. Currently, they represent about 36% of the workforce. While this might feel ordinary to Americans, it’s a significant indicator of social change in Saudi Arabia.

On the regional front, MBS is blending domestic reforms with foreign policy strategies. He supports expanding the Abraham Accords but insists that any lasting normalization with Israel hinges on establishing a clear path to Palestinian statehood. The political conditions following the situation in Gaza are essential for integrating Israel into the region.

This swift pace of change hasn’t come without its challenges. Dissent is heavily suppressed, and the political landscape remains constrained. Critics highlight the arrests of activists, business leaders, and even members of the royal family. Historically, rapid reform often clashes with established interests, as seen with reformers like Turkey’s Ataturk and Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew. Major changes in such strict systems often require measures to stifle opposition.

MBS has acknowledged that he has made mistakes—some costly, others unpopular—but he’s shown a remarkable capacity to learn quickly, which is, perhaps, a rare trait in leadership.

What Has Changed Under MBS

• Decline of Religious Police: For over a century, religious police enforced strict dress codes and gender segregation. Their reduced role has opened up public life, allowing for mixed workplaces and modern entertainment.
• Women’s Rights on the Rise: The ban on driving has ended, and women now enjoy more autonomy over work and travel. This shift has redefined their participation in the labor market in ways that would have seemed impossible a decade ago.
• Cultural Renaissance: Domestic entertainment is thriving, with cinemas reopening and events like Formula 1 and international festivals attracting global talent. Initiatives like MegaLair Project aim to define the nation’s cultural landscape.
• Digital Government: A unified digital platform makes public services more efficient, allowing citizens to complete tasks swiftly and reducing opportunities for corruption.
• Anti-Corruption Measures: The controversial campaign in 2017 recovered billions in assets, sending a message that even those at the top aren’t above scrutiny, which is a shift in expectations around accountability.
• Economic Reforms: Aiming to reduce reliance on oil, Saudi Arabia is investing in technology and renewable energy. The Public Investment Fund is now a major player in global technology and infrastructure.
• Major Development Projects: Initiatives like Neom and Qiddiya are some of the most ambitious development projects today, although their success will largely depend on attracting residents and investors.
• Financial Reforms: The transition away from subsidized fuel and utilities aims to enhance fiscal discipline and broaden the revenue base, making the economy less susceptible to fluctuations in oil prices.
• Legal Modernization: New codified laws are replacing previous judicial discretion, improving predictability for citizens and investors alike, which is crucial for attracting foreign investment.
• Education Overhaul: A revamped curriculum emphasizes STEM fields and critical thinking, moving away from outdated religious teachings.
• Increase in Homeownership: Various support programs have boosted homeownership rates from 45% to 63% in recent years.
• A Broader Global Outlook: The Kingdom is now poised to host major global events and is actively engaging in international diplomacy.

A Unique Reform Agenda

MBS’s age sets him apart from many historical reformers. At just 40, he has the potential for a long career in power, enabling him to embed changes into Saudi institutions and society. This poses a challenge for any future retrogression. Few leaders manage to accomplish so much in a decade, and MBS appears to be in a prime position to redefine his country’s global role.

Looking ahead, the focus in Washington is on integrating defense, technological cooperation, energy, and investments—aiming to create jobs while navigating complex diplomatic relations with both Arab nations and Israel amidst ongoing political issues concerning Palestinians.

Whether MBS can harmonize internal reforms with regional strategies remains to be seen, but success could extend far beyond the Gulf region.