Saudi Arabia’s next grand strategy is connectivity

For decades, Middle Eastern geopolitics has revolved around energy production, military alliances and regional rivalries. States competed for influence through oil, ideology and security partnerships. Increasingly, however, the foundations of geopolitical power are changing. In the 21st century, connectivity is emerging as one of the most important instruments of statecraft. Countries that can move energy, goods, capital, data and people efficiently across continents will shape global commerce and regional politics.