Saudi social reforms will create economic openings

Significance

The rapid social changes under way, such as letting women drive and reopening cinemas, largely focus on creating new economic opportunities. They also serve a political purpose, bolstering a core support base for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as he challenges many of the long-standing axioms of Al Saud family rule.

Impacts

• New leisure opportunities in Saudi Arabia will hit Saudi tourism to current top nearby destinations, such as Bahrain and Dubai.
• Social changes will improve Saudi Arabia’s international image, potentially boosting its political clout.
• Reforms will support efforts to attract foreign investment, including both direct investment and portfolio inflows.