How Mohammed bin Salman Became a Powerful Figure in Saudi Arabia’s Game of Thrones

In Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, or MBS, has become a dominant figure in the game of thrones following the death of King Abdullah on January 23, 2015. He succeeded King Salman, who was not very well known before ascending to the throne. MBS has since consolidated his power and transformed the political landscape in Saudi Arabia over the past decade.

Born to King Salman and his third wife, Mohammed bin Salman was appointed as the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in June 2017. This promotion marked a significant shift in the line of succession in the kingdom, as MBS became next in line to the throne. His rapid rise to power has been characterized by bold and controversial decisions, including the implementation of economic reforms and a crackdown on corruption within the royal family.

Despite facing criticism and backlash for his actions, Mohammed bin Salman has also received praise for his efforts to modernize Saudi Arabia and diversify its economy. Under his leadership, the kingdom has made strides in various sectors, such as entertainment, tourism, and technology, aimed at reducing its dependence on oil revenues.

One of MBS’s most notable initiatives is Vision 2030, a strategic plan to transform Saudi Arabia into a global investment powerhouse. This ambitious vision includes initiatives to develop key sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure, in addition to promoting a more open and tolerant society. However, the Crown Prince’s plans have also raised concerns about human rights violations and political repression in the kingdom.

In recent years, Mohammed bin Salman’s reputation has been tainted by controversial events, such as the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. The incident sparked international outrage and scrutiny of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, leading to increased calls for accountability and justice. Despite these challenges, MBS remains a key player in Saudi Arabian politics and continues to wield considerable influence both domestically and on the world stage.