Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman further consolidated power, with decision-making increasingly centralized and no significant challenges to his authority. Political stability remained high, and domestic tensions did not translate into meaningful constraints on his rule.
Economic performance was steady, supported by stable oil revenues, prudent fiscal management and progress under Vision 2030. Non-oil income continued to rise, tourism expanded and social indicators such as female labor participation and homeownership improved, reflecting momentum in the kingdom’s economic transformation.
Governance was shaped by shifting regional dynamics. Riyadh conditioned normalization with Israel on a Palestinian state, balancing foreign policy ambitions with public sentiment. Reduced tensions with Iran and the Houthis strengthened national security, allowing the government to redirect attention toward domestic reform and long-term strategic goals.
