Mohammed bin Salman

ModernPoliticianSaudi Arabia1985 — ?

MBS, sweeping social and economic reformer.

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Quick Facts

Born

1985

Country

Saudi Arabia

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)15

Political (20%)78

Influence (20%)62

Legacy (20%)45

Leadership (15%)49

Strategy (15%)41

Total Score51.4

Mohammed bin Salman — Complete Timeline

2015 AD

Appointed Minister of DefensePolitical Action◆ Major

Mohammed bin Salman was appointed Minister of Defense by his father King Salman at age 29. This position gave him control over the Saudi military and marked his rapid rise to power within the royal family.

AppointmentMilitaryPower

Impact: national

2016 AD

Launch of Vision 2030Reform

As Deputy Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman unveiled Vision 2030, a sweeping plan to reduce Saudi Arabia's dependence on oil, diversify the economy, and implement social reforms including allowing women to drive and opening entertainment venues.

Economic ReformSocial ReformModernization

Impact: globalconstructive

2017 AD

Appointed Crown Prince of Saudi ArabiaPolitical Action

King Salman appointed Mohammed bin Salman as Crown Prince, replacing Mohammed bin Nayef. This made him the heir to the throne and the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, centralizing power in his hands.

SuccessionPower Consolidation

Impact: global

2018 AD

Involvement in the killing of Jamal KhashoggiPolitical Action◆ Major

Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. U.S. intelligence agencies concluded that Mohammed bin Salman approved the operation, leading to international condemnation and diplomatic fallout.

AssassinationHuman RightsDiplomatic Crisis

Impact: globaldestructive