Arabian Business looks back at the highlights of King Abdullah’s three years in power.
Follow us on
IN PICS: King Abdullah’s anniversary
King Abdullah, previously a popular crown prince, was named ruler of the world’s top oil exporter following the death on August 1, 2005 of his half-brother King Fahd. The late King Fahd died after 23 years of ruling the strategic Gulf state. (Getty Images)
As Crown Prince between 1987-2005, King Abdullah had previously acted as head of state and ruler of Saudi Arabia since January 1, 1996 due to the poor health of King Fahd. (Getty Images)
King Abdullah also serves as prime minister of Saudi Arabia and Commander of the Saudi National Guard. He is chairman of the Supreme Economic Council, president of the High Council for Petroleum and Minerals, president of the King Abdulaziz Centre for National Dialogue, chairman of the Council of Civil Service and head of the Military Service Council. (Getty Images)
During the last three years, the kingdom has achieved unprecedented progress in economic, social, educational, health, agricultural and industrial sectors. (Getty Images)
Efforts for the empowerment of women have increased during King Abdullah’s rule. He has promoted dialogue by establishing the King Abdul Aziz Center for National Dialogue, which organised forums to discuss issues related to women, education, labor and reforms. (Getty Images)
King Abdullah (centre), Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah (front left) and Saudi Oil Minister Ali al-Nuaimi (right) share a laugh as they attend an official ceremony celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Saudi Arabian Oil Company Aramco in Dammam in May, 2008. King Abdullah has promoted economic and political ties with both Eastern and Western nations. (Getty Images)
