Podcasts · The World of Intelligence

Researching Saudi Arabia with David Rundell

2 Oct 2020 · 1 h 11 min

In this episode of The World of Intelligence, I engage with David Rundell, a former US diplomat with extensive experience in Saudi Arabia. We delve into the complexities of researching Saudi Arabia, a nation often perceived as opaque. David shares insights from his three decades in diplomacy, detailing how information access has evolved, particularly in light of the significant social and economic transformations under King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. We discuss the ambitious Vision 2030 plan, the ongoing changes in gender equality, and the implications of the war in Yemen on the nation's stability. David emphasizes the importance of understanding the intricate dynamics within Saudi Arabia, including the role of the royal family and stakeholder interests, while offering a unique model for analyzing the kingdom's future trajectory.