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Mohammed bin Salman

Mohammed bin Salman is the crown prince of Saudi Arabia and has served as prime minister since 2022.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Mohammed bin Salman is the crown prince of Saudi Arabia and has served as prime minister since 2022. Widely known as MBS, he is commonly described as the kingdom’s de facto ruler and is associated with major economic and social reforms, as well as controversial domestic and foreign policy decisions. He is the eldest son of King Salman of Saudi Arabia.

Early life and family

Mohammed bin Salman was born in Jeddah in 1985 and is the eldest son of King Salman and Fahdah bint Falah. He belongs to the House of Saud, the ruling family of Saudi Arabia.

Political rise

He was appointed minister of defense in 2015, became deputy crown prince the same year, and was promoted to crown prince in 2017. In 2022, he was appointed prime minister.

Policies and reforms

Mohammed bin Salman has been linked to Vision 2030, an effort to reduce Saudi Arabia’s dependence on oil and broaden the economy. His period in power has also seen notable social changes, including the lifting of the ban on women driving.

Controversies and criticism

His leadership has drawn international criticism over Yemen, the 2017–18 Qatar diplomatic crisis, the repression of dissidents, and the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Key facts

  • Mohammed bin Salman is the eldest son of King Salman of Saudi Arabia.
  • He became minister of defense in 2015, crown prince in 2017, and prime minister in 2022.
  • He is frequently described as the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia.
  • He has been closely associated with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification plan.
  • His tenure has included social reforms and a more assertive foreign policy.
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Canadian context

Canada has been affected by Saudi Arabia’s regional role, energy market significance, and periodic diplomatic tensions with Saudi authorities, making Mohammed bin Salman a figure of interest in Canadian foreign-policy and international-news coverage.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Mohammed bin Salman?
He is the crown prince and prime minister of Saudi Arabia, and is widely regarded as the kingdom’s de facto ruler.
When was Mohammed bin Salman born?
He was born on 31 August 1985.
What is Mohammed bin Salman known for?
He is known for Vision 2030, major social and economic reforms, and a more assertive foreign policy.
What positions has he held?
He has served as minister of defense, crown prince, and prime minister of Saudi Arabia.
Why is Mohammed bin Salman controversial?
He has faced criticism over human-rights issues, repression of critics, and Saudi military involvement in regional conflicts.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Mohammed-bin-Salman
    Supports: Birth date, family background, titles, and biographical overview.
  2. BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-40354415
    Supports: De facto ruler description, reforms, and background.
  3. SaudiPedia — https://www.saudipedia.com/en/mohammed-bin-salman-bin-abdulaziz
    Supports: Official positions, crown prince appointment, and prime minister appointment.
  4. CNN — https://www.cnn.com/world/middleeast/mohammed-bin-salman-fast-facts
    Supports: Date of birth, family relationship, and overview of offices held.