Profile
Mohammed bin Salman: The Crown Prince Remaking Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler and architect of Vision 2030
The son of King Salman, Mohammed bin Salman was born in Riyadh and studied law at King Saud University. He was largely unknown internationally when his father became king in 2015 and made him defence minister at just 29.
Two years later he replaced his cousin as crown prince, becoming next in line to the throne. He launched Vision 2030, a sweeping plan to diversify the economy through tourism, entertainment, sport and huge projects such as the futuristic city of NEOM. Women were allowed to drive from 2018.
His record is fiercely debated. Supporters see a moderniser opening up a conservative country. Critics cite the war in Yemen, the detention of activists and the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul in 2018. In 2022 he was named prime minister.
Career highlights
- 2015Defence minister: appointed after his father becomes king
- 2016Vision 2030: economic reform plan launched
- 2017Crown prince: becomes heir to the throne
- 2017NEOM: plans unveiled for a new city
- 2018Women drive: driving ban lifted
- 2022Prime minister: formally leads the government
Did you know?Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, which he chairs, bought English football club Newcastle United in 2021.
