Women's Rights: A Milestone for Gender Equality

In 2018, the long-standing prohibition on women driving was lifted, which was one of the most significant victories in Saudi Arabia's religious reforms.[1] This momentous occasion symbolised the nation's desire to provide women with more rights and freedoms, bringing us closer to gender equality. The momentous decision not only provided Saudi women with increased mobility, but it also marked a break with deeply entrenched traditions that had hitherto limited their participation in public life. This action sparked other reforms and highlighted the Crown Prince's dedication to modernising the Kingdom.

Cultural Renaissance: Embracing Entertainment and Creativity

The necessity of sustaining a thriving cultural scene that embraces diversity and innovation was recognised in the Vision 2030 strategy. Saudi Arabia, traditionally known for its stringent interpretation of Islamic precepts, has steadily become more accessible to entertainment and cultural activities. Concerts, films, and public performances found their way into the social fabric, defying the old narrative that had prohibited such types of entertainment. This move not only allowed Saudis to connect with a greater spectrum of cultural expressions, but it also helped to soften the Kingdom's image on the international stage.

Unlocking Heritage: Tourism and Historical Sites

Saudi Arabia opened its doors to international tourists to diversify the economy and minimise reliance on oil earnings, highlighting its rich historical and cultural legacy.[2] Tourism marketing was a clever step that not only improved the hotel sector but also revealed the hidden gems of a historically rich region. Visitors could now experience archaeological wonders, historic ruins, and architectural marvels from the country's illustrious past. This initiative not only aided economic progress but also functioned as a link between Saudi Arabia and the rest of the globe.[3]

Promoting Religious Tolerance: A Pathway to Moderation

The aim to create a more moderate and tolerant view of Islam was one of the cornerstones of Saudi Arabia's Islamic reforms. To combat extreme beliefs, the Crown Prince emphasised the significance of an open and inclusive religious discourse that accepts a variety of views. This call for moderation echoed not only within the Kingdom but also throughout the Muslim world, promoting talks to find common ground and understanding. Saudi Arabia positioned itself as a paragon of Islamic tolerance and peaceful coexistence by supporting a break from rigorous orthodoxy.[4]

Countering Extremism

Countering the rise of extremism and radicalization is one of the key objectives of Saudi Arabia's efforts to promote a more moderate understanding of Islam. The country has recognised the significance of tackling the underlying causes of extremism and has taken initiatives to counter extremist ideology that can lead to violence and terrorism.[5]

Interfaith Dialogue

Saudi Arabia has held interfaith dialogues with representatives from various religions to promote understanding, respect, and peaceful coexistence among diverse faith communities. This contributes to the global message of religious tolerance and harmony.[6]

Intra-Islamic Dialogue

Saudi Arabia has taken initiatives within the Muslim world to promote interaction among various Islamic sects and schools of thought. This is especially noteworthy in light of the historical differences and conflicts that have existed between various Muslim sects. Promoting discussion and understanding among different sects helps to make the Muslim community more cohesive and harmonious.

Scholarly Engagement

The Saudi government has urged scholars and religious leaders to spread messages of peace, harmony, and moderation. This entails rereading and interpreting religious texts in a way that promotes tolerance and opposes extremism. Saudi Arabia hopes to build a more balanced understanding of Islam that is compatible with modern ideals and peaceful coexistence by influencing Islamic discourse.

Educational Reforms

Saudi Arabia has implemented educational reforms to modernise and update the curriculum in schools and religious organisations. These measures seek to minimise the promotion of radical beliefs in favour of critical thinking, tolerance, and respect for variety.[7]

Promoting a Positive Image of Islam

Saudi Arabia's religious moderation efforts also help to convey a more favourable and progressive picture of Islam on the world stage. The country tries to combat negative perceptions and misconceptions about Islam by vigorously combating extremism and encouraging tolerance.

Custodianship of Holy Sites- As the custodian of Mecca and Medina's holy sites, Saudi Arabia recognises its unique obligation to ensure that these hallowed locations serve as centres of unity and spirituality for Muslims worldwide. Promoting religious tolerance helps to fulfil this commitment.

While Saudi Arabia has taken tremendous attempts to promote religious tolerance and moderation, these initiatives have also been met with obstacles and criticism. Balancing traditional Islamic beliefs with modernity and social development is a complex process, and there may be continuous arguments and discussions concerning the pace and scope of these reforms within Saudi society.

Economic Transformation: Beyond Oil Dependency

While not solely a religious reform, the economic developments under Vision 2030 had a critical influence in moulding Saudi Arabia's social and cultural dynamics. Recognising the risk of a largely reliant economy on oil exports, the Kingdom began on an economic diversification journey. The development of industries other than oil not only promoted employment creation but also resulted in cultural shifts, as economic expansion frequently influences community standards. The emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation in the Vision 2030 plan prepared the path for a more dynamic and forward-thinking Saudi society.[8]

Challenges and Ongoing Debates

It is worth noting that Saudi Arabia's religious reforms have not been without difficulties and controversy. While the reforms were supported by progressive elements of society, they were met with opposition from more conservative segments. The rate and scope of change were hotly debated, illustrating the delicate interplay of tradition and modernity. The reforms, while revolutionary, did not eradicate the deeply embedded conservative components of Saudi society, highlighting the complexities of change in a country with a rich historical and religious past.

Wahhabism

The Wahhabi Religious Doctrine is also a key impediment to religious change in Saudi Arabia. Wahhabism is a conservative and rigorous interpretation of Sunni Islam that emerged in the Arabian Peninsula in the 18th century. It advocates a puritanical style of life by emphasising the literal interpretation of Islamic teachings and practises. Religious doctrine has had an important role in creating Saudi Arabian society and cultural values. It is resistant to change, and there have been cases of resistance and pushback against specific alterations. The religious establishment as a whole has frequently been wary of adopting big reforms that would call into question their conventional authority or interpretations.[9]

The Saudi government also relies on Wahhabism, which emphasises 'Obedience to the Ruler'. The Saudi monarchy's authority has been justified in part by Wahhabi philosophy, which emphasises allegiance to the sovereign. To secure religious legitimacy and support for their reign, the Saudi royal family has maintained strong ties with religious leaders. This symbiotic relationship between the religious establishment and the royal family has contributed to the country's stability and control, but it has also stifled religious and societal reform in the region.[10]

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia's Islamic reforms, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visionary leadership, have launched a new era of transition and modernisation. The reforms have touched on many aspects of Saudi life, from providing women with the ability to drive to encouraging entertainment, opening historic sites to tourists, developing religious tolerance, and diversifying the economy. While problems and disagreements abound, these reforms have put the Kingdom on a path towards a more inclusive, varied, and successful future. Saudi Arabia's journey of religious reform offers an inspiring example of a nation embracing change while preserving its heritage as it navigates the delicate balance between tradition and progress.

End- Notes

[1](Chulov, 2017)

[2] (Al-Khamri, 201824)

(n.d.)

[3] ibid

[4] (Farouk & Brown, 2021)

[5] (Saudi Arabia Extends Financial Support to Global Counter-Terrorism Office, 2023)

[6] (Saudi Arabia Taking Lead in Interfaith Dialogue, 2018)

[7] (Reforms in Saudi Arabia’s Education Sector Producing Highly Skilled Youth: Minister, 2022)

[8] (Key Reforms Bolster Saudi Economic Diversification Agenda | ISPI, 2023)

[9] (Farouk & Brown, 2021)

[10] Ibid

Bibliography

1.       Farouk, & Brown. (2021, June 7). Saudi Arabia’s Religious Reforms Are Touching Nothing but Changing Everything. carnegieendowment.org. Retrieved August 2, 2023, from https://carnegieendowment.org/2021/06/07/saudi-arabia-s-religious-reforms-are-touching-nothing-but-changing-everything-pub-84650#:~:text=Saudi%20Arabia’s%20Islamic%20institutions%20have,in%20Saudi%20politics%20and%20society.

2.      Chulov, M. (2017, October 24). I will return Saudi Arabia to moderate Islam, says the crown prince. The Guardian. http://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/oct/24/i-will-return-saudi-arabia-moderate-islam-crown-prince

3.      Al-Khamri, H. (201824, June 24). Why did Saudi Arabia lift the driving ban on women only now? Why Did Saudi Arabia Lift the Driving Ban on Women Only Now? | Women’s Rights | Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2018/6/24/why-did-saudi-arabia-lift-the-driving-ban-on-women-only-now

4.     W. (n.d.). Saudi Arabia introduces instant e-Visa services to amplify connectivity and tourism - ET TravelWorld. ETTravelWorld.com. https://travel.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/visas-and-passports/saudi-arabia-introduces-instant-e-visa-services-to-amplify-connectivity-tourism/102017150

5.      Saudi Arabia extends financial support to Global Counter-Terrorism Office. (2023, January 17). Saudi gazette. http://saudigazette.com.sa/article/628961

6.    Saudi Arabia taking the lead in interfaith dialogue. (2018, September 22). Arab News. https://www.arabnews.com/node/1376336/saudi-arabia

7.     Reforms in Saudi Arabia’s education sector producing highly skilled youth: Minister. (2022, September 3). Arab News. https://arab.news/p7pcn

8.    Key Reforms Bolster Saudi Economic Diversification Agenda | ISPI. (2023, April 27). ISPI. https://www.ispionline.it/en/publication/key-reforms-bolster-saudi-economic-diversification-agenda-126751

Pic Courtesy-Abdulrhman Alkhnaifer at unsplash.com

(The views expressed are those of the author and do not represent views of CESCUBE.)