How will Saudis in future view the current era of the Kingdom?

Arab News

27-04-2025

https://arab.news/86sna
Thomas Hobbes, the English philosopher born in 1588, found himself in a world full of turmoil — a period when war seemed on the horizon and doubt was the only truth. Hobbes' vision of that era was deeply shaped by these difficult circumstances, and his outlook serves as a counterpoint to the positive change taking place in Saudi Arabia today — not as a time of fear and uncertainty, but as an era of optimism, progress, and transformative change.
His work, particularly articulated in 'Leviathan,' reflects a pervasive sense of dread that permeated his philosophy.
He famously remarked, sarcastically, about his life, suggesting that his birth was a direct result of his mother's panic at the news of the Spanish Armada sailing toward England, saying: 'Fear and I were born twins together.'
This perspective mirrors the tumultuous times Hobbes lived through and invites reflection on how varying circumstances — whether favorable or adverse — shape individuals' perceptions of the world around them.
Some might argue that the profound connection between philosophy and the historical context in which it develops is sometimes overlooked, whether that context is characterized by conflict or uncertainty.
Unfortunately, while Hobbesian pessimism persists in many parts of our Arab world, those living in Saudi Arabia are having the opposite experience, defined by boundless optimism and unprecedented opportunity.
One might ask: how will young Saudis perceive the Kingdom in the coming years?
As the progress of Vision 2030 suggests, they may one day reflect on these years as a time when 'hopes and opportunities exploded' — a remarkable period when the nation wholeheartedly embraced innovation, progress and global engagement.
Living through this era has profoundly shaped the worldview of those in the Kingdom, fostering a connection to critical issues such as artificial intelligence, technology, the environment, tourism, sport, business and more.
Countries like the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia emerge as unparalleled beacons of hope, energy, and ambition, illuminating a path forward.
Nine years after its launch, Saudi Vision 2030 has fostered a profound sense of nationalism and hope for a brighter future among the Saudi people while igniting the energy, aspirations, and optimism of the Kingdom's youth.
Nasser bin Hamed Al-Ahmad
Under the bold and visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom has embarked on an extraordinary journey toward prosperity, progress, innovation and empowerment.
This new generation — inspired by the principles of Vision 2030 — is eager to unlock the country's full potential and is passionately committed to spearheading change.
In a region that has too often, disappointingly, been perceived as constrained by stagnation or overshadowed by turmoil, the people of Saudi Arabia are challenging outdated norms.
Nine years after its launch, Saudi Vision 2030 has fostered a profound sense of nationalism and hope for a brighter future among the Saudi people while igniting the energy, aspirations, and optimism of the Kingdom's youth.
Moreover, this transformative vision has resonated deeply with the approximately 15 million non-Saudis living in the Kingdom, uniting them with their Saudi counterparts in a shared commitment to building a prosperous and dynamic future.
At the same time, it has inspired foreign residents to transfer the Kingdom's vison to their own country.
While initial skepticism was inevitable, the progress achieved thus far underscores the vision's potential to serve as a transformative force in the region.
As the Kingdom continues to evolve, it stands as an example of the power of bold leadership, innovative thinking and collective determination in shaping a more prosperous and dynamic future.
Ultimately, the crown prince's leadership is a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that hope and determination have the power to transform nations and the very essence of the human spirit, which any nation needs to build a community that will ignite and inspire.
• Nasser bin Hamed Al-Ahmad is a political researcher and writer with more than seven years' experience in political media. He specializes in analyzing political trends in the MENA region and the US. X: @nasseralahmad3