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Ten Years of King Salman’s Reign in Saudi Arabia: Reform, Vision, Empowerment, and Growth

King Salman bin Abdulaziz (SPA)
King Salman bin Abdulaziz (SPA)
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Ten Years of King Salman’s Reign in Saudi Arabia: Reform, Vision, Empowerment, and Growth

King Salman bin Abdulaziz (SPA)
King Salman bin Abdulaziz (SPA)

Throughout his tenure as the governor of Riyadh, King Salman bin Abdulaziz stood out as one of the most connected figures to Saudi Arabia’s corridors of power.
As the 25th son of the Kingdom’s founder, King Abdulaziz Al Saud, he earned his father’s trust at an early age and remained a close confidant to all successive Saudi monarchs—Saud, Faisal, Khalid, Fahd, and Abdullah.
Often called the “Ruler of Riyadh,” a unique title among regional governors, King Salman was seen as a natural-born leader. He was also known as the “custodian of the royal family’s secrets,” acting as a trusted advisor and envoy for the monarchy.
On behalf of Saudi kings, King Salman undertook key political tasks, signed agreements with foreign capitals, and represented the Kingdom at major regional and global events, solidifying his role as a respected statesman long before becoming king.
During his long tenure as governor of Riyadh, King Salman bin Abdulaziz cultivated relationships with global leaders, heads of state, and cultural figures, positioning Saudi Arabia’s capital as a hub of international diplomacy.
Under his leadership, Riyadh hosted numerous high-profile visitors, political leaders, summits, and conferences, elevating its role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s strategic decisions.
When King Salman ascended to the throne on January 23, 2015—exactly a decade ago—he assumed the title of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. His reign has been marked by significant reforms that earned global recognition.
King Salman introduced measures to protect and promote human rights, including laws that strengthened the rights of women, children, people with disabilities, and workers, solidifying his legacy as a reformist leader.
Since King Salman became king in 2015, Saudi Arabia has introduced significant reforms to promote equality and protect human rights. Laws were enacted to safeguard the rights of women, children, people with disabilities, and workers, while providing legal avenues for redress through courts and human rights organizations.
One of the most transformative changes was allowing women to drive. On June 24, 2018, the historic decision took effect after King Salman issued a royal decree in September 2017.
This marked a turning point for women’s freedoms in the Kingdom.
Saudi women also made strides in politics and business. In 2015, they participated in municipal elections for the first time, winning 21 seats. In 2018, women gained the right to start businesses without male guardian approval, register marriages and divorces, and report family matters independently.
That same year, the Kingdom introduced an anti-harassment law, allowed families to attend football matches, and granted women licenses to participate in the Olympics and become pilots.
Women now hold leadership roles, including ambassadorial positions in the US, Norway, and Sweden. Thirteen women were appointed to the Human Rights Commission, making up half its members.
They also entered roles once reserved for men in government and the private sector.
Under King Salman, Saudi Arabia has enacted major reforms, especially in civil rights.
Women now have greater equality, including the right to obtain family records for their children and equal rights in the workplace. Restrictions, such as requiring a woman’s residence to match her husband’s, have also been removed.
These changes earned Riyadh the title of Arab Capital of Women.
A Champion of Culture and History
King Salman is also deeply committed to preserving Saudi history and promoting culture. He has played a pivotal role in documenting the history of the Arabian Peninsula and the Saudi state.
His weekly council serves as a forum for dialogue with scholars and intellectuals, and he chairs key cultural institutions, including the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives and the King Fahd National Library.
One of his landmark achievements was establishing the “Saudi Arabia: Yesterday and Today” exhibition in the 1980s, which toured over 10 countries, including the US and Canada, showcasing the Kingdom’s heritage and achievements.
Known as a “friend of writers and journalists,” King Salman has long supported cultural initiatives. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman once described him as an avid reader of history who encouraged his children to read by discussing books with them weekly.
A Life of Leadership and Development
Born on December 31, 1935, King Salman grew up in Riyadh, where he received an education in religious and modern sciences. He memorized the Quran by age 10, instilling a sense of discipline and responsibility that shaped his leadership style.
At 19, he became acting governor of Riyadh, and in 1955, its full-time governor. Over five decades, he transformed Riyadh from a small city of 200,000 into a bustling hub of commerce, education, and culture. The city saw the development of modern infrastructure, schools, hospitals, and landmarks.
Beyond urban development, King Salman contributed to humanitarian efforts, chaired relief committees, and strengthened Riyadh’s position as a leading city in the region. His legacy reflects his dedication to progress, culture, and the Kingdom’s advancement.
Saudi Arabia’s Transformation Under King Salman
Since King Salman assumed power in 2015, Saudi Arabia has embarked on a transformative journey of reforms and modernization. Early in his reign, he issued decrees to improve government performance and empower youth leadership. Central to this progress is “Vision 2030,” led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which focuses on diversifying the economy, enhancing services, and improving quality of life while preserving the nation’s heritage.
Preserving Heritage, Modernizing Culture
King Salman has prioritized safeguarding Saudi Arabia’s history. Key sites have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage locations. Historic landmarks have been turned into tourist attractions, while cultural values have been incorporated into education, blending tradition with modernity in Saudi cities.
Social Progress and Youth Empowerment
Saudi society has seen significant changes under King Salman. Young people benefit from scholarships, entrepreneurial support, and innovation programs. Entertainment has flourished with the return of cinemas, theaters, and cultural festivals, fostering creativity and national pride.
Economic Diversification and Digital Growth
Vision 2030 has driven Saudi Arabia toward a more diverse and technology-focused economy. Investments in advanced industries, partnerships with global companies, and digital transformation have positioned the Kingdom as a leader in innovation. Military industries have been localized, creating jobs and boosting national security.
A Global Destination for Events and Business
Saudi Arabia has become a hub for international sports, cultural events, and business gatherings. Hosting global tournaments and festivals has spurred infrastructure improvements and attracted investment. Enhanced transport networks and world-class hospitality services have made the Kingdom a key destination for tourism and commerce.
Vision 2030: A Path to the Future
Vision 2030 has launched major projects in renewable energy, technology, and tourism while fostering environmental sustainability. Under King Salman’s reign, Saudi Arabia is rapidly building a diverse, innovation-driven economy, laying the foundation for a thriving and sustainable future.

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Gulf

Al-Mahrami: Saudi Arabia Backs the Solution for Southern Yemen without Preconditions

Officials are seen at the consultative meeting on southern Yemen in Riyadh on Sunday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Officials are seen at the consultative meeting on southern Yemen in Riyadh on Sunday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Al-Mahrami: Saudi Arabia Backs the Solution for Southern Yemen without Preconditions

Officials are seen at the consultative meeting on southern Yemen in Riyadh on Sunday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Officials are seen at the consultative meeting on southern Yemen in Riyadh on Sunday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

A consultative meeting on southern Yemen kicked off in Riyadh on Sunday. The meeting brings together leaderships, elders and senior figures from southern Yemen. 

In a statement, the gatherers said the meeting reflects the South’s “collective will to search for a just, secure and guaranteed solution” to the southern cause “away from escalation or attempts to create secondary conflicts that do not serve the South and its future.” 

They praised Saudi Arabia’s “clear” support for their cause as demonstrated in direct meetings with its leaders and officials, said the statement that was read by member of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) Abou Zaraa Al-Mahrami. 

Saudi Arabia’s positions “align completely with the just demands of the people of the South and back their right to reach a comprehensive political solution that guarantees their dignity, security, stability and future without preconditions or political demands.” 

These positions allow the people to determine their political fate and destiny, including reclaiming full sovereignty, added the statement. 

Al-Mahrami said the upcoming Saudi-sponsored intra-southern dialogue “is a rare historic opportunity that should not be squandered or undermined through sparking internal southern disputes.” 

He cautioned against antagonizing the Kingdom or creating disputes with it, saying this “serves the parties that are opposed to our cause.” 

Furthermore, he stressed that no one will be marginalized, explaining that the dialogue is based on the greatest possible partnership and representation of the South. 

“Since arriving in Riyadh, we sensed clear and sincere support for the southern cause. Our presence here played a direct role in meeting the demands of our people and forces,” he continued. 

Al-Mahrami noted the Kingdom’s keenness on supporting the Yemeni people’s daily needs, as well as the country’s economy. 

“We also received direct assurances from Saudi officials that support for the southern forces will continue,” he added. The forces are protecting the South and its security and are deployed at battlefronts. 

The support will consolidate the stability of the South and block attempts to weaken the southern front or raise doubts about its people, he went on to say. 

The statement said Saudi Arabia’s economic and development support “are the pillars for the future partnership” between the South and the Kingdom. 

“Today’s meeting will pave the way for a real strategic future based on security, stability and development,” it stressed. 

Moreover, the statement noted that Saudi Arabia had been at the forefront in protecting the South against all threats. “It is the main partner in maintaining its security and stability and backing its just cause,” it added. 

“Saudi Arabia’s stances have proven that the Kingdom has and continues to be a sincere supporter and guarantor of the South’s security and stability,” it said. 

“The real danger against the South lies in the Houthi militias and their expansionist agendas against the South and entire region,” it warned. The statement also warned against the threat of ISIS and al-Qaeda. 

“We therefore categorically reject any attempts that aim to raise doubts against the Kingdom’s role,” it said, while also dismissing campaigns against the southern military and security forces led by the Giants Brigades and National Shield forces. 

Gulf

Saudi FM Discusses Regional Developments in Phone Calls with Counterparts

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi FM Discusses Regional Developments in Phone Calls with Counterparts

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah discussed the latest regional developments on Saturday in separate phone calls with his counterparts from Iraq, Jordan, Türkiye and Spain.

Prince Faisal received phone calls from Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein; Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Ayman Safadi; Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan; and Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares.

Prince Faisal and Safadi also reviewed coordinated efforts aimed to promote security and stability in the region.

Gulf

With Saudi Backing, Yemen Moves to Forge Southern Consensus and Restore State Authority in the North

Members of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council meet with the Saudi Defense Minister. Saba
Members of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council meet with the Saudi Defense Minister. Saba
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With Saudi Backing, Yemen Moves to Forge Southern Consensus and Restore State Authority in the North

Members of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council meet with the Saudi Defense Minister. Saba
Members of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council meet with the Saudi Defense Minister. Saba

Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council took a series of far-reaching decisions on Thursday, including changes to its membership and the appointment of a new prime minister tasked with forming a new government, in a move aimed at reshaping power dynamics within the anti-Houthi camp and strengthening unified sovereign decision-making under declared Saudi support.

In a rapid sequence of decisions, the council revoked Faraj Al-Buhsani's membership, filled the resulting vacancies by appointing Lieutenant General Mahmoud Al-Subaihi and Dr. Salem Al-Khanbashi, accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Salem bin Braik’s government, and named Shaea Mohsen Al-Zandani to form a new cabinet.

The steps, which officials said were taken with Saudi Arabia playing a “decisive” role, are intended to normalize conditions in southern provinces, particularly Hadhramaut, and pave the way for a comprehensive south-to-south dialogue to be hosted in Riyadh.

The decision to strip Al-Buhsani of his membership in the Presidential Leadership Council was not merely a change in personnel, according to the legal reasoning published by official media, but a firm political and legal message.

The decision accused him of “breaching the principle of collective responsibility” and “challenging sovereign decisions.”

It said Al-Buhsani had “exploited his constitutional position to provide political and legal cover for illegal military movements” carried out by what it described as the dissolved Southern Transitional Council, including justifying the mobilization of forces from outside Hadhramaut to attack the province.

He was also accused of endorsing “unilateral measures” led by Aidarous al-Zubaidi, who has been referred to the public prosecutor on charges of high treason, actions that the decision said had contributed to undermining national unity.

The language of the ruling framed those actions as an “armed rebellion outside the framework of the state,” shifting the southern dispute from a political disagreement into a question of allegiance to state institutions and legitimacy.

The move was seen as a heavy blow to the dissolved Transitional Council and its supporters, reaffirming that southern demands must be pursued through constitutional and legal channels and through negotiations under Saudi sponsorship, rather than unilateral military action.

Rebalancing power

The appointment of Dr. Salem Al-Khanbashi, the governor of Hadhramaut, as a member of the Presidential Leadership Council while retaining his local post underscored the priority placed on stability in the oil-rich province.

In a previous interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Al-Khanbashi said the Saudi position had been “decisive” in the rapid withdrawal of Southern Transitional Council forces from Hadhramaut.

His elevation to the council is seen as recognition of his recent efforts and is expected to strengthen the government camp’s ability to manage political and security conditions in Hadhramaut and across southern Yemen.

The appointment of Lt. Gen. Mahmoud Al-Subaihi, a veteran military commander, was viewed as bolstering the representation of the professional military establishment within the council and sending a reassuring message to forces fighting on the front lines against the Houthis.

Officials said it could also be a step toward unifying military formations under the Ministry of Defense, a key Saudi and international demand.

Accepting the government's resignation and appointing Al-Zandani to form a new cabinet was aimed at renewing government performance to meet the demands of a new phase, shifting from crisis management to rebuilding institutions and improving services.

The move coincided with Saudi Arabia’s announcement of $90 million in financial support to pay salaries, in addition to covering military wages starting Sunday.

Broader context

The latest Yemeni moves cannot be separated from Saudi Arabia’s regional role. Alongside the internal decisions, Riyadh announced a new development package for Yemen worth 1.9 billion Saudi riyals, or about $500 million, and preparations to host a south-to-south dialogue conference, while continuing efforts to reunify military forces.

The Saudi strategy, according to officials, centers on supporting Yemen’s legitimate authority to impose control, unify armed forces, end armed activity outside the state, and facilitate inclusive southern dialogue under its sponsorship to reach a unified vision addressing the southern issue.

Saudi Arabia has also continued its development and humanitarian efforts, linking political stability in Yemen to improved services and living conditions to restore public confidence in state institutions.

These developments come as UN envoy Hans Grundberg has warned of the truce's fragility, stressing that the future of the south cannot be imposed by force.

The changes appear aimed at forging a more cohesive and unified southern leadership capable of entering decisive negotiations over the shape of Yemen’s future state, before turning to the long-delayed settlement in the north, where the Houthis continue to obstruct regional and international efforts to end the conflict and re-enter a peace process to restore stability across Yemen.