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A fourth Saudi state: The crown prince's reforms in politics, society and the economy

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  • Steinberg, Guido

Abstract

The political, social and economic reforms spearheaded by Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman serve the goal of consolidating his rule in the long term. Bin Salman has centralised decision-making in his own hands and is in full control of the country's politics. Authoritarianism under the crown prince is far more radical and uncompromising than was the case in Saudi Arabia until 2015. From the outset, Bin Salman promoted a pronounced Saudi nationalism, which many observers describe as a "Saudi-first" policy. From the crown prince's point of view, social and cultural liberalisation is a prerequisite for the success of his economic reforms and thus for the long-term survival of the kingdom and the ruling family. The reforms have had only limited success because Saudi Arabia remains highly dependent on oil revenues, despite a recent economic upturn.

Suggested Citation

  • Steinberg, Guido, 2026. "A fourth Saudi state: The crown prince's reforms in politics, society and the economy," SWP Research Papers 4/2026, Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP), German Institute for International and Security Affairs.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:swprps:336785
    DOI: 10.18449/2026RP04
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