Blood and Oil: Mohammed bin Salman's Ruthless Quest for Global Power

Muhammad ibn Salman Al Saud, widely known as MBS, is the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and, despite his youth, is already recognized as one of the most influential and controversial figures on the world political stage.

The prince has charm, cunning, and a taste for risk. He pays a great deal of attention to his reputation, values loyal allies, and interacts easily with political leaders in both the West and the East. In a short period of time, he managed to overcome palace intrigues, soften strict norms of public behavior, and initiate large-scale reforms aimed at reducing the economy’s dependence on oil. He is also known for his luxurious lifestyle by Saudi standards and his harsh approach to removing political opponents and independent journalists.

Muhammad talked for two hours, confidently citing financial forecasts without notes. He listed which sectors of Saudi Arabia’s economy could be modernized or rebuilt to reduce dependence on oil, and gave expected growth rates and profitability. His plan included both real steps—such as cutting subsidies and raising taxes—and fantastic projects, for example transforming the Red Sea region with flying vehicles and service robots.

In one of The Wall Street Journal’s books, journalists reveal the true story of Muhammad’s rise to power, providing a unique perspective on the modern political situation in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

Among those arrested were such unexpected personalities as Mutaib ibn Abdullah, the son of the late king and head of the National Guard responsible for the security of the royal family. Although Mutaib had potential as a successor, he became a prisoner at the Ritz Hotel. In the first days, about 50 people were detained, and over the following weeks, more than 300 people were brought to the Ritz and other guarded buildings in Riyadh.