As Saudi Arabia approaches its third century as a nation, Founding Day frames 1727 not simply as a historical milestone but as the starting point of an evolving state
It has followed economic reforms closely, explaining policy shifts to the public, assessing outcomes, and contributing to informed discussion when needed
To the east of Riyadh, on a giant campus employing advanced simulators, young Saudis are learning the mechanics of the wells and rigs of the oil and gas industry.
From education and infrastructure to housing, culture, construction, creativity, technology, workforce participation, and innovation, the country is rapidly moving beyond oil
Balanced fiscal management, targeted deficit reduction, and strategic growth initiatives underpin this year's budget, with a strong emphasis on citizen partnership
The legislation needed to make a strong bond unbreakable is still being discussed, but a $1tn in pledged investment and mutually beneficial commitments in technology help pave the path
There is great potential for the two countries to expand their relationship across many key areas, but much work remains to flesh out the details of proposed frameworks
Amidst the dizzying numbers, grand scale, gilded frameworks, and scribbled signatures, there was a deeper and more permanent undercurrent in Washington—that of a cast-iron partnership
When states are attacked, authority gravitates towards institutions capable of mobilising resources, enforcing discipline, and coordinating a military response
Cairo and Tehran have been at loggerheads since 1979, but the Iranian threat has always acted as a check on Israeli ambitions. If Iran is completely defeated, Israel will reign supreme.
Even if it stays on the sidelines of the US-Iran war, the country is fragile. Unlike larger economies that can absorb shocks in global markets, it has little room to cushion the impact.