Saudi Arabia's Complex Evolution: From Conquest to Reforms

Saudi Arabia's unique polity has been shaped by its history and the alliance between the Saud clan and Wahhabist ideology. The country's current ruling family, the House of Saud, has ruled since Abd al-Aziz Ibn Saud conquered Riyadh and Najd in 1902-1913, the Eastern Province in 1913, and the Hijaz in 1924-1925, culminating in the state being named the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932.

The discovery of oil in 1932 brought significant changes to the kingdom's economy and foreign policy. Abd al-Aziz prioritized Saudi state interests over Wahhabi norms, while his sons generally emulated his caution. However, under Muhammad bin Salman (MbS), who took effective control in 2015, the kingdom has undergone significant reforms.

Commins' book provides a comprehensive account of Saudi Arabia's history and challenges, including issues of royal family succession and cohesion, the role of the Wahhabi establishment in state affairs, and the distribution of wealth. He also deals with regional threats and the emergence of al-Qaeda and ISIS.