Decoding Saudi Arabia’s BRICS Invitation: A Shift in Global Alliance

Abstract

Over the past two decades, Saudi Arabia has navigated a complex array of geopolitical and domestic challenges. These include socio-political upheavals such as the Arab Spring, deteriorating economic conditions due to falling oil prices, and emerging national security concerns, notably in relation to Yemen. Adding to this complexity is Saudi Arabia's evolving relationship with its long-standing ally, the United States, a partnership that has been a cornerstone of the Kingdom's security architecture. A pivotal change in Saudi policy and governance has been the ascendancy of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman since 2015, who has embarked on an ambitious program of domestic reforms and assertive foreign policy initiatives. This article aims to provide an analytical overview of Saudi Arabia's shifting domestic and international landscape, focusing on the interplay between the Crown Prince's reformist agenda and its multi-dimensional foreign policy challenges and opportunities. It critically examines the divergent reactions these reforms have elicited both within Saudi Arabia and in the international community, especially the strong support among the younger Saudi generations contrasted with reservations and criticisms from more conservative factions. A case in point is Saudi Arabia's ambiguous response to a recent invitation from the BRICS nations—countries oriented against 'Western hegemony'—to join their economic bloc. Drawing upon various policy actions and trends, this study synthesizes how these multi-faceted changes are interconnected and contribute to a nuanced understanding of Saudi Arabia’s current and potential regional impact, particularly in the context of shifting global power dynamics.