Rethinking Saudi Arabia: Insights Beyond the Headlines

During his tenure as the U.S. ambassador to Saudi Arabia from 2023 to 2025, Mr. Ratney observed a country in transition that harbors a favorable view of Donald Trump. The former president is admired by many Saudis for his straightforward, business-like approach, devoid of moralizing on human rights issues and progressive ideologies.

For those critical of Saudi Arabia or Trump, additional reasons can be added to their list of grievances: religious intolerance, restricted expression, and harsh penalties. However, having served over two years as the U.S. envoy in Saudi Arabia, Ratney encourages skeptics to fact-check these perceptions by considering the nation's real-time transformations, which Trump will witness during his visit, and the resulting implications for U.S. security interests.

A Symbolic Gesture or Strategic Move?

Saudi leaders are likely to interpret Trump’s decision to revisit as a token of genuine regard, especially given President Biden’s initial stance of isolating Riyadh. While U.S.-Saudi relations improved significantly under Biden, prospects of diplomatic achievements like economic alliances and peaceful ties with Israel highlight mixed sentiments towards his presidency. Yet, Trump’s anticipated return to Riyadh fuels fresh optimism among Saudis.

A New Era Since Trump’s 2017 Visit

The landscape in Saudi Arabia has dramatically changed since Trump's visit in 2017. Mohammed bin Salman became the crown prince shortly after, focusing on centralizing authority and addressing regional conflicts. The Vision 2030 reform plan saw its infancy then and has since ignited considerable national interest and activism. Women's rights have notably advanced; women can legally drive and now participate freely in diverse sectors, including sports.

Previously stringent guardianship laws are mostly rescinded; the religious police, once a source of intimidation, have significantly diminished in visibility. Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s renewed investment in renewable energies marks a shift towards sustainable prosperity beyond fossil fuel dependence.

The Real Impact of Saudi Reforms

While some dismiss Mohammed bin Salman’s efforts as mere propaganda, Ratney’s observations reveal a genuine shift in the kingdom's atmosphere. Comparing his experiences over a decade apart, he notes a palpable transformation characterized by empowerment, national pride, and optimism. Many Saudis, though not uncritical of every change, attribute these shifts to M.B.S.