When did Mohammed bin Salman become Crown Prince? This question is often asked by those interested in the political landscape of Saudi Arabia. Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS, ascended to the position of Crown Prince on June 21, 2017, marking a significant shift in the country’s leadership.
Mohammed bin Salman was born on August 31, 1985, as the second son of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. He came into the public eye relatively late in his career, but his rapid rise to power has been nothing short of remarkable. MBS’s ascent to the throne was part of a broader plan to modernize Saudi Arabia and diversify its economy, a process known as Vision 2030.
Before becoming Crown Prince, MBS had already made a name for himself as a key figure in Saudi Arabian politics. He was appointed as the Minister of Defense in 2015, a role that allowed him to gain significant influence over the country’s military and foreign policy. His tenure as Defense Minister was marked by a series of bold moves, including the military intervention in Yemen and the establishment of the Saudi-led coalition to combat the Houthi rebels.
As Crown Prince, MBS has continued to push for reforms within Saudi Arabia. His Vision 2030 plan aims to reduce the country’s reliance on oil revenue, promote private sector growth, and invest in education and infrastructure. Some of the most notable changes include the lifting of the ban on women driving and the opening of cinemas in the kingdom, which were previously forbidden.
However, MBS’s reign has not been without controversy. His policies have faced criticism both domestically and internationally, with concerns about human rights abuses and the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. Despite these issues, MBS remains a central figure in Saudi Arabian politics, and his influence continues to grow.
The question of when Mohammed bin Salman became Crown Prince is not just a historical fact but also a reflection of the broader changes taking place in Saudi Arabia. As the country continues to evolve under MBS’s leadership, the world will undoubtedly keep a close eye on his future actions and their impact on the region and beyond.
