The ruling family seems to be preparing for the succession of Prince Muhammad bin Salman (MbS) (b.1985) to the throne whilst King Salman bin Abdulaziz (b.1935) is living and can use the immense authority of a Saudi monarch, enhanced by Salman’s record in government, and his long-held role as family administrator.

Appointments of young princes from different branches of the family to senior positions in government at national and provincial level have strengthened MbS’s position within the Al-Saud and signalled a bequeathing of power to a new Saudi Arabia generation. The kingdom may soon be ruled by someone in his early 30s with a focus on the future and a clear wish to break with the past.

Those dealing with the country politically, diplomatically and commercially will need to adjust to the thinking of a confident and new Saudi Arabia generation in a hurry to transform Saudi Arabia and see it play a more robust role in the region. Over time this may be moderated by experience but the ride over the next 2-3 years will not be smooth.

Under the last four kings, a few senior princes controlled significant parts of the state such as the ministries of defence and interior — in Salman’s case governor of Riyadh — and built up fiefdoms and patronage networks at national and local level. Under King Salman, however, power is being concentred around him and MbS, who is also minister of defence. MbS controls the re-organised ministry of interior — following the removal of Prince Muhammad bin Nayef (b.1959) and his replacement by the much younger prince — and he oversees the economy. Only the National Guard — commanded by Prince Mit’ab bin Abdullah, the son of the late King Abdullah bin Abdelaziz (2005-2015) — is currently separate.

This article was taken from our Saudi Arabia Strategic Brief publication. If you have any further questions then please contact us.