Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Net Worth
Net Worth: $20 Billion
Category: Richest Politicians › Royals
Birthdate: December 31, 1935 (89 years old)
Birthplace: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Profession: King of Saudi Arabia, Politician
Nationality: Saudi Arabia
Overview
Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is the King of Saudi Arabia, a position he has held since January 2015. With a net worth of $20 billion, King Salman is one of the wealthiest monarchs in the world. His wealth primarily derives from Saudi Arabia’s vast oil reserves, influence over economic and political affairs, and his family’s extensive business interests, including media conglomerates.
Early Life and Education
- Father: King Abdulaziz (founder of Saudi Arabia)
- Mother: Hassa bint Ahmed Al Sudairi
- Education:
- Attended the Princes’ School in Riyadh.
- Studied religion and modern science.
Salman is one of 45 children of King Abdulaziz and is part of the “Sudairi Seven,” a powerful faction of sons born to Hassa bint Ahmed Al Sudairi.
Political Career
Early Roles
- Deputy Governor of Riyadh Province: Appointed at 19 years old.
- Governor of Riyadh Province (1963–2011): Served for nearly five decades, transforming Riyadh into a modern metropolis.
Crown Prince and Ascension to the Throne
- Crown Prince (2012–2015): Appointed after the death of Crown Prince Sultan and the removal of Crown Prince Nayef.
- King of Saudi Arabia: Assumed the throne in January 2015 after the death of King Abdullah.
Reign as King
Government Reforms
- Streamlined bureaucracy by consolidating ministries into:
- Council of Political and Security Affairs
- Council for Economic and Development Affairs
- Implemented labor and religious reforms, including replacing ministers to align with modernization goals.
Saudi Vision 2030
- A strategic initiative to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy, reduce dependence on oil, and promote cultural and environmental development.
Military and Foreign Policy
- Yemen Intervention (2015):
- Led a coalition of Sunni Muslim countries to launch Operation Decisive Storm.
- The campaign faced criticism for humanitarian abuses and civilian casualties.
- Established KSRelief (King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center): Aimed at providing humanitarian support, particularly in Yemen.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS)
- In 2017, replaced his nephew with his son, Mohammed bin Salman, as Crown Prince.
- MBS is widely considered the de facto leader of Saudi Arabia, driving reforms and international policies.
Wealth and Assets
King Salman’s wealth is tied to:
- Saudi Oil Reserves: Control over Aramco, the world’s most valuable company.
- Real Estate and Media: Ownership stakes in prominent media and real estate assets across the Middle East.
Personal Life
Marriages and Children
- Married three times and has 13 children.
- First Wife: Sultana bint Turki Al Sudairi (6 children; deceased 2011).
- Second Wife: Sarah bint Faisal Al Subai’ai (1 child).
- Third Wife: Fahda bint Falah Al Hithlain (6 children).
Health Issues
- Underwent spinal surgery in 2010.
- Suffered a stroke, leading to reduced mobility in his left arm.
- Mild dementia, including Alzheimer’s.
- Gallbladder surgery in 2020.
Legacy and Global Influence
King Salman has maintained Saudi Arabia’s position as a global powerhouse, balancing modernization with traditional values. His reign is characterized by significant internal reforms and external challenges, including conflicts in the Middle East and navigating the global oil economy.
