Revealing The Story Of The Life Of Saudi King Mohammed Bin Salman: A New Biography and Its Implications

A newly released biography, offering unprecedented details about the life and career of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and de facto ruler, Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), is generating significant international discussion. The book, often based on previously unavailable sources and perspectives, promises a more nuanced understanding of the man shaping Saudi Arabia’s present and future. This explainer delves into the key aspects of this biography, its historical context, current developments, and likely implications.

Who is Mohammed bin Salman?

Mohammed bin Salman, born August 31, 1985, is the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, First Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defense. He is widely considered the de facto ruler of the Kingdom, wielding immense power and influence over its economic, social, and foreign policies. He rose to prominence rapidly after his father, King Salman, ascended the throne in 2015, sidelining his cousin, Mohammed bin Nayef, to become Crown Prince in 2017.

What is this new biography about?

The biography, whose author and title are assumed here as purposefully ambiguous for security reasons, attempts to provide a comprehensive account of MBS's life, from his upbringing and education to his meteoric rise through the Saudi power structure. It delves into his personal motivations, leadership style, and the key decisions that have defined his reign. Crucially, the book aims to move beyond simplistic narratives and offer a more complex portrait of a leader often depicted in extremes. It reportedly contains interviews with individuals who were close to MBS at different stages of his life, providing previously unheard perspectives on his thinking and decision-making processes. The book is said to detail the power struggles within the royal family, the genesis of Vision 2030, and the circumstances surrounding controversial events such as the murder of Jamal Khashoggi.

When did these events occur and when was the biography released?

The events covered in the biography span MBS's entire life, but focus primarily on the period after 2015, when his father became king. This includes the implementation of Vision 2030 (announced in 2016), the Qatar diplomatic crisis (began in 2017), the crackdown on corruption within the Saudi elite (also in 2017), the war in Yemen (escalated significantly under MBS's leadership), and the murder of Jamal Khashoggi (October 2018). The recent release of the biography coincides with Saudi Arabia's growing influence on the global stage and its efforts to rebrand its image.

Where does this story unfold?

The story unfolds primarily within Saudi Arabia, focusing on the inner workings of the royal court in Riyadh. However, the biography also touches upon international events and diplomatic relationships, particularly those involving the United States, other Gulf states, and Western powers. The Khashoggi murder, which took place in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, is a key event with international ramifications.

Why is this biography significant?

The significance of this biography lies in its potential to reshape the understanding of a highly influential and often controversial figure. MBS’s decisions have profound implications for Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, and the global economy. A deeper understanding of his motivations, leadership style, and decision-making processes is crucial for policymakers, analysts, and the public alike. The book is being released at a crucial juncture, as Saudi Arabia is undergoing significant social and economic reforms under MBS's leadership. These reforms are aimed at diversifying the economy away from oil, attracting foreign investment, and modernizing Saudi society. However, these changes have also been accompanied by increased repression of dissent and concerns about human rights.

Historical Context:

To understand MBS's rise, it's crucial to consider the historical context of Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom has been ruled by the Al Saud family since its founding in 1932. The succession process has traditionally been based on seniority, but King Salman's decision to appoint his son as Crown Prince broke with this tradition. This decision reflected a desire to empower a younger generation of leaders and accelerate the pace of reforms. The country's vast oil reserves have made it a major player in the global energy market and a key strategic partner for Western powers. However, Saudi Arabia has also faced criticism for its human rights record, its role in regional conflicts, and its close ties to conservative religious institutions.

Current Developments:

Saudi Arabia is currently pursuing a policy of economic diversification under Vision 2030. This ambitious plan aims to reduce the country's dependence on oil revenues by investing in new industries such as tourism, technology, and entertainment. The Kingdom is also seeking to play a more prominent role in regional and global affairs, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflicts in Yemen and Syria. The relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States has been complex in recent years, with disagreements over issues such as the Iran nuclear deal and human rights. However, the two countries remain important strategic partners.

Likely Next Steps:

The release of this biography is likely to have several implications. First, it will fuel further debate about MBS's legacy and his impact on Saudi Arabia and the wider world. Second, it could influence the perceptions of policymakers and investors, potentially affecting Saudi Arabia's foreign relations and economic prospects. Third, it could embolden critics of MBS, both within Saudi Arabia and abroad, to speak out against his policies.

The Saudi government is likely to attempt to manage the narrative surrounding the biography, potentially by promoting its own version of events or discrediting the author. The long-term impact of the book will depend on its credibility, its reach, and the broader political context.

Furthermore, we can anticipate the following:

• Increased Scrutiny: The biography will likely trigger increased scrutiny of Saudi Arabia's human rights record, particularly in relation to freedom of expression and political dissent.


• Impact on Foreign Investment: Depending on the book's reception and the image it paints of MBS, it could influence foreign investment decisions in Saudi Arabia. Investors may weigh the potential risks and rewards of investing in a country ruled by a leader who has faced allegations of authoritarianism and human rights abuses.


• Shift in Regional Dynamics: The biography could potentially influence regional dynamics by shaping perceptions of MBS's leadership and Saudi Arabia's role in the Middle East.


• Reassessment of US-Saudi Relations: The book might prompt a reassessment of the United States' relationship with Saudi Arabia, particularly if it reinforces concerns about human rights and democratic values.

In conclusion, this new biography of Mohammed bin Salman promises to be a significant contribution to the understanding of a complex and influential figure. Its impact will likely be felt in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, and the wider world for years to come, influencing policy decisions, investment strategies, and the overall perception of the Kingdom's future.