How to Bring Change to the Kingdom

For TIME by Abbas/Magnum

Many Saudis perceive Abdullah to be a leader who is in touch with his people

It's the weekend in Saudi Arabia. crown prince Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al Saud has rounded up a few brothers, sons and friends for a royal game of lawn bowls. Wearing a Bedouin robe and an incongruous pair of striped Adidas running shoes, the de facto ruler of the world's richest oil sheikdom is ready to play. He stands up to the pitch and hurls a weighty ball down the grassy turf with impressive precision. Throughout the afternoon, he is constantly up and down from his chair, despite his considerable girth and advanced age (78). In between throws and sips of...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!