Saudi Arabia’s Recent Cultural Changes

posted on: Aug 5, 2025

By: Amir Kobeissi / Arab America Contributing Writer

The Push For Modernization

When Mohammed bin Salman became the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia on June 21, 2017, he planned to implement changes through Vision 2030, which aimed to better develop the country and create a strong sense of belonging. The main goal for this initiative was to improve Saudi Arabia’s economy outside of only oil, but through investing in things such as entertainment and technology, mirroring that of the West. These reforms may have been a huge benefit for many within society, but they resulted in a major social change.

Certain forms of entertainment that had once been heavily forbidden were growing more and more popular by the year. Concerts with world wide known artists and the opening of movie theaters began a common occurrence in the country. Not only were these types of things unheard of in Saudi Arabia in the past, but they were now even taken to the next level and modernized. These changes have proven to the world that Saudi Arabia is open to change and that outside influence may align with its interests.

Women’s Rights and Equality

One of the most impactful and evident aspects of Saudi Arabia’s evolution has been the shift in women’s rights. Notably, in 2018, women were given the right to drive, something that was a major change in the country’s gender policies. This shift sparked something even bigger and allowed more access to jobs, higher education, and roles within the government. Despite these large changes, Vision 2030’s goals may not be completed. Some may still argue that freedom is limited and that strict laws have not been eliminated, especially for women.

Culture and Freedom

A huge aspect of Saudi Arabia’s transformation has to do with its citizens, most notably its younger generation. Their ability to shape the country’s identity and change its image in the wider world has completely restored and influenced Saudi’s national identity today. The increase and use of social media has also played a major role in this as well, and gives the younger generation a platform to share their stories and reject any common stereotypes placed on them.

Although these developments have largely shaped Saudi Arabia’s modern society and future, freedom of speech appears to remain very limited. The idea of bringing change or reform that may not align with the goals of the country’s government can be rejected and subject to punishment. This is something that occurs in many Middle Eastern countries, but has appeared to show huge steps of growth over the years, particularly in Saudi Arabia.

International Image and Struggles

Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural shift has faced both praise and backlash since they have began coming to place. Many view this as a positive sign of progress in modernization in a place that may have been seen as isolated and distinct. While others feel that this change will cause human rights issues and corruption within the state. The government, although it aims to reassure its citizens that these actions are done for the betterment of the state and all of its citizens, is allowing for more unity and openness in the world.

Impact on the Arab World

Once known for its strict adherence to Islamic law, the country has undergone a very surprising transformation over the last decade. Efforts in modernizing have completely transformed society and turned it into something very unexpected. These changes have not only improved the living conditions in the country, but have also changed its image in the eyes of the wider International community. As Saudi Arabia continues to move forward with this process, it serves to be influential to other Arab nations navigating similar obstacles. And this effect can serve to be very influential on the culture and political landscape of the Arab world for years to come.

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