Saudi Arabia history History Timeline and Biographies

1902

Conquest of Riyadh

In 1902, Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, later known as King Abdulaziz, captured Riyadh, marking the beginning of his campaign to unify the various tribes and regions of the Arabian Peninsula, which laid the groundwork for modern Saudi Arabia history.

1932

Foundation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

On September 23, 1932, Abdulaziz Ibn Saud proclaimed the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, unifying the various regions and tribes into a single nation, an essential milestone in Saudi Arabia history.

1938

Discovery of Oil

The discovery of oil at the Dammam oil field in 1938 transformed Saudi Arabia history, as it led to rapid economic growth and modernization, positioning the country as a key player in the global oil market.

1945

Saudi Arabia Joins the United Nations

In 1945, Saudi Arabia became a founding member of the United Nations, marking its entry into international diplomacy and affirming its role in global affairs, a significant chapter in Saudi Arabia history.

1953

Death of King Abdulaziz and Ascension of King Saud

King Abdulaziz passed away in 1953, and his son, Saud, ascended to the throne, continuing the modernization efforts and further shaping Saudi Arabia history during his reign.

1960

Formation of OPEC

Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in 1960, significantly influencing global oil policies and economics, an important aspect of Saudi Arabia history.

1973

Oil Crisis and Economic Boom

The 1973 oil crisis, triggered by an OPEC oil embargo, led to skyrocketing oil prices and an economic boom in Saudi Arabia, altering the landscape of Saudi Arabia history and boosting its global influence.

1982

King Fahd's Ascension to the Throne

King Fahd became the king of Saudi Arabia in 1982, initiating significant social and economic reforms, which were pivotal in the evolution of Saudi Arabia history during the late 20th century.

1990

Gulf War and Coalition Forces Deployment

In 1990, Saudi Arabia became a key player in the Gulf War, hosting coalition forces to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation, a defining moment in Saudi Arabia history that showcased its strategic importance in the region.

2001

September 11 Attacks and Global Impact

The September 11 attacks in 2001 had a profound impact on Saudi Arabia history, leading to increased scrutiny of its policies and a shift in its international relations, particularly with the United States.

2015

Vision 2030 Launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

In 2015, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at reducing Saudi Arabia's dependence on oil and diversifying its economy, marking a transformative phase in Saudi Arabia history.

2018

Women’s Rights Reforms

In 2018, Saudi Arabia implemented significant reforms granting women the right to drive and increasing their participation in the workforce, a crucial development in Saudi Arabia history regarding gender equality.

2020

Response to COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 tested Saudi Arabia's public health systems and economic resilience, leading to various measures that impacted daily life and the economy, marking a challenging period in Saudi Arabia history.

2023

Saudi Arabia Hosts G20 Summit

In 2023, Saudi Arabia hosted the G20 summit, showcasing its growing role in international diplomacy and economic discussions, further solidifying its position in global affairs as part of Saudi Arabia history.