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Vision 2030 is not just an economic or cultural reform, it marks a broader attempt to redefine Saudi Arabia’s national identity. Spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, this effort moves beyond traditional Islamic centrality toward a modern, globally competitive nationalism. It represents a reorientation in religion, economy, and foreign policy.
Key social and cultural reforms are dismantling old norms. Religious authorities’ role in daily life is shrinking, while reforms in women's rights, artistic freedoms, and entertainment are accelerating. Milestones include lifting the driving ban for women, permitting mixed-gender events, and easing long-standing restrictions on cinema and music. Investments in international sports and art are central to forging the “new Saudi Arabia” narrative. Still, these developments are accompanied by sustained criticism over human rights violations and limited civil liberties. The kingdom’s new identity project remains contested on the world stage.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is ambitious, but major hurdles remain. According to Professor Safran Almakaty, cultural and institutional resistance continues to challenge reform implementation. Women's societal acceptance is evolving slowly, and media freedom remains constrained. Despite improvements in migrant worker rights, labor conditions still require attention. While Vision 2030 raises hopes for human rights reforms, lasting success depends on continued structural and societal change.
Amnesty International’s 2023 report notes that reforms have yielded only limited impact, with serious violations persisting. Restrictions on freedoms, due process breaches, and suppression of expression remain widespread. Female activists still face legal and social discrimination, including arbitrary detention and travel bans. The Specialized Criminal Court (SCC) continues to hand out harsh sentences to peaceful political dissenters.
Economically, the outlook is also uncertain. The Washington Institute warns that weak oil prices and lagging foreign investment are delaying projects. With Saudi Arabia needing oil prices of $80–86 per barrel to balance its budget, Brent crude slipping below $75 complicates funding. Riyadh has postponed certain infrastructure projects and acknowledged the need to revise its plans. Low foreign direct investment suggests global firms remain cautious. Vision 2030’s economic goals, particularly reducing oil dependence, may not fully materialize until 2035 or even 2040.
