Houthi attacks hinder Saudi Arabia's economic ambitions

Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting oil infrastructure and airports, have led to the suspension of operations at airports, civilian deaths, and the cancellation of major events in Riyadh, including the 'Desert Davos' conference, posing an existential obstacle to the Vision 2030 economic diversification plan.

Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting oil infrastructure and airports, have led to the suspension of operations at airports, civilian deaths, and the cancellation of major events in the capital Riyadh, including the 'Desert Davos' conference, which is a key pillar in the kingdom's efforts to diversify its economy. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's 'Vision 2030', aimed at diversifying the economy away from oil, faces an existential obstacle in the form of unprecedented Houthi attacks. Analyst H.A. Hellyer of the Royal United Services Institute says Mohammed bin Salman faces greater challenges than ever, facing the Iranians on one side of the country and their allied Houthis on the other. On October 10, a Houthi attack on Riyadh airport killed 13 people and injured over 300 others, the deadliest attack on the kingdom's soil in over a decade, and the airport has remained closed since.