Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, born on December 31, 1935, is the King of Saudi Arabia since 2015. He was also the Prime Minister from 2015 to 2022. He is the 25th son of King Abdulaziz, who founded Saudi Arabia. Salman became King on January 23, 2015, after serving as Crown Prince from June 18, 2012, to January 23, 2015. He is one of the oldest living leaders and the first Saudi head of state born after Saudi Arabia was formed.

Salman's mother is Hassa bint Ahmed Al Sudairi, and he is part of the Sudairi Seven, children of King Abdulaziz and Hassa. He worked as the deputy governor and later governor of Riyadh for 48 years from 1963 to 2011. After that, he became the minister of defense and then the crown prince in 2012. He became king in 2015 when his half-brother, King Abdullah, passed away. Since January 2024, he is the oldest surviving son of King Abdulaziz.

During his reign, Salman led several significant initiatives, including the Saudi intervention in the Yemeni Civil War, Saudi Vision 2030 (a plan to improve Saudi Arabia's economy), and allowing Saudi women to drive in 2017. He also aimed to improve relations with Israel to counter Iran's influence. His son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is seen as the real ruler due to the King's health issues and Mohammed's political strategies. Mohammed took over as prime minister in 2022.

Early Life and Education

King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was born on December 31, 1935, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He is the 25th son of the kingdom’s founder, King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, and Princess Hassa bint Ahmed Al Sudairi. His early education took place at the Princes' School in Riyadh, a private institution established by his father. There, he studied religion and modern science, laying a solid foundation for his future roles in governance and public service.

Entry into Public Service

Salman's journey into public service began early. In 1954, at the age of 19, he was appointed as the Deputy Governor of Riyadh Province. A year later, he became the Governor, a position he held for nearly five decades. His tenure as Governor saw Riyadh's transformation from a mid-sized town into a major urban metropolis, recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in the Arab world. His efforts in urban development, infrastructure, and social services were pivotal in shaping Riyadh into the thriving capital it is today.

Ascent to the Throne

In 2011, Salman was appointed Minister of Defense, succeeding his brother, Sultan bin Abdulaziz. His role as Defense Minister was marked by modernization initiatives and strategic military engagements, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities. In June 2012, following the death of Crown Prince Nayef, Salman was named Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister.

On January 23, 2015, following the death of his half-brother King Abdullah, Salman ascended to the throne as the King of Saudi Arabia. His accession marked a new chapter in the kingdom's history, characterized by a blend of tradition and ambitious reform.

Vision 2030: A Blueprint for the Future

One of King Salman's most significant contributions has been the endorsement and promotion of Vision 2030, a comprehensive plan aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy away from oil dependency. Launched in 2016 by his son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Vision 2030 encompasses a wide range of initiatives, including the development of non-oil industries, expansion of the entertainment sector, and enhancement of education and healthcare systems. The vision also emphasizes social reforms, such as increasing women's participation in the workforce and promoting cultural and recreational activities.

Domestic and Foreign Policy

Domestically, King Salman has overseen numerous social and economic reforms, aimed at modernizing the kingdom and improving the quality of life for its citizens. These include enhancing the rights and opportunities for women, increasing transparency and accountability in government, and fostering economic growth through investment in infrastructure and tourism.

In terms of foreign policy, King Salman has navigated a complex geopolitical landscape, balancing relations with Western allies while asserting Saudi Arabia's influence in the Middle East. His tenure has seen significant involvement in regional conflicts, such as the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen, and efforts to counter Iranian influence in the region. Additionally, he has worked towards strengthening the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and fostering closer ties with key global partners.

Personal Life and Legacy

King Salman is known for his deep religious faith, scholarly interests, and commitment to public service. He has been described as a meticulous and hands-on leader, with a strong sense of duty and responsibility. His personal interests include history, literature, and philanthropy, and he has been actively involved in numerous charitable activities throughout his life.

As King, Salman's legacy is shaped by his efforts to modernize Saudi Arabia while preserving its rich cultural and religious heritage. His leadership during a period of significant transformation has positioned the kingdom on a path towards a more diversified and sustainable future.

Conclusion

King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's reign marks a significant era in Saudi Arabian history. His dedication to public service, commitment to reform, and strategic vision have left an indelible impact on the kingdom. As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve, the legacy of King Salman will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal chapter in its ongoing journey of progress and development.

FAQs

1. Who is King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud?

King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is the current King of Saudi Arabia, having ascended to the throne in 2015.

2. When was King Salman born?

King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was born on December 31, 1935.

3. Who was King Salman's father?

King Salman's father was King Abdulaziz, the founder of Saudi Arabia.

4. What position did King Salman hold before becoming King?

Before becoming King, Salman served as the Governor of Riyadh for 48 years and later as the Minister of Defense.

5. When did King Salman become King of Saudi Arabia?

King Salman became the King of Saudi Arabia on January 23, 2015.

6. What is Saudi Vision 2030?

Saudi Vision 2030 is a plan aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy away from oil dependency and promoting social and economic reforms.

7. When did Saudi women get the right to drive?

Saudi women were granted the right to drive in 2017 by a decree issued by King Salman.

8. Who is Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman?

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is King Salman's son and the current de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia.

9. What is the Sudairi Seven?

The Sudairi Seven refers to the seven children of King Abdulaziz and Hassa bint Ahmed Al Sudairi, including King Salman.

10. What is the Saudi intervention in the Yemeni Civil War?

The Saudi intervention in the Yemeni Civil War refers to Saudi Arabia's involvement in the conflict in Yemen, which began in 2015.

11. How wealthy is King Salman?

King Salman is reported to have a personal wealth of at least $18 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in the world.

12. What is the role of the Prime Minister in Saudi Arabia?

The Prime Minister in Saudi Arabia holds significant administrative responsibilities and often works closely with the King in governing the country.

13. What is the significance of Riyadh in Saudi Arabia?

Riyadh is the capital and largest city in Saudi Arabia, playing a crucial role in the country's economy, culture, and governance.

14. How long has the House of Saud ruled Saudi Arabia?

The House of Saud has ruled Saudi Arabia since the kingdom's establishment by King Abdulaziz in 1932.

15. What is the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)?

The Gulf Cooperation Council is a political and economic alliance of six Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, aimed at promoting cooperation and integration among member states.

16. How does King Salman contribute to philanthropy?

King Salman has been actively involved in various charitable activities throughout his life, contributing to philanthropic causes in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

17. What are some of King Salman's interests and hobbies?

King Salman's interests include history, literature, and scholarly pursuits, reflecting his dedication to education and intellectual pursuits.

18. How has Saudi Arabia's economy evolved under King Salman's reign?

Under King Salman's reign, Saudi Arabia has embarked on economic diversification efforts through initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030, aimed at reducing reliance on oil revenues and promoting sustainable growth.

19. What is the significance of King Salman's reign in Saudi Arabian history?

King Salman's reign marks a period of significant transformation and reform in Saudi Arabia, characterized by modernization initiatives, social reforms, and efforts to strengthen the kingdom's global standing.

20. What is King Salman's legacy likely to be remembered for?

King Salman's legacy is likely to be remembered for his contributions to modernizing Saudi Arabia, promoting economic diversification, and advancing social reforms, as well as his efforts to navigate complex geopolitical challenges in the region.