The Majlis The Majlis #34: Karen Elliott House on Crown Prince MBS in her new book, The Man Who Would Be King
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Jul 27, 2025 
Karen Elliott House, former publisher of The Wall Street Journal and expert on Saudi Arabia, discusses her book on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. She reveals MBS's strategies to transform the kingdom through bold reforms and mega-projects. The conversation dives into the cultural shifts within Saudi society, the balance of nationalism and globalism, and how economic stability influences public support for reform. House also critiques Western misconceptions and highlights the geopolitical significance of MBS’s leadership in the Middle East.
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Unique Leadership of MBS
- Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman embodies a unique blend of decisiveness and ambitious vision in Saudi Arabia.
- He is characterized by a rare individualism and determination not common among Saudi leaders.
Dream Big, Avoid Incrementalism
- MBS rejects incrementalism, aspiring to envision and create a radically transformed Saudi Arabia.
- His inspiration includes video games and leaders like Lee Kuan Yew who dreamed ambitiously.
Vision for Long-Term Legacy
- MBS aims to leave a legacy of transformation, dreaming of Saudi Arabia as one of the first countries on Mars.
- He compares himself to historical leaders with long reigns, emphasizing visionary change over mere preservation.
