How are leaders chosen in Saudi Arabia?

The ruling family of Saudi Arabia, the House of Saud, has held power since 1744. The head of the House of Saud is also the king of Saudi Arabia. The next king is typically chosen by a consensus among the senior members of the family.

The formal process of choosing a new king begins when the current king dies or abdicates. The Council of Allegiance, which is made up of senior members of the royal family and other dignitaries, then meets to select a new king. The new king must be a member of the House of Saud and must be approved by a majority of the Council of Allegiance.

The Council of Allegiance considers several factors when choosing a new king, including the candidate's age, health, experience, and popularity. The candidate must also be acceptable to the country's religious leaders and military.

Once the new king has been chosen, he is sworn in and assumes power. The new king's first task is to appoint a new Crown Prince, who will serve as the next king in waiting.

The process of choosing a new king in Saudi Arabia is often opaque and shrouded in secrecy. However, the one constant in Saudi Arabia's modern history has been the smooth transition of power from one king to the next.