The construction of the futuristic green Saudi city of Neom requires the resettlement of tribal people. Those who do not comply with the plans are sentenced to very long prison terms or to death.
Despite Saudi Arabia's push for transformation, analysts say that a political opening remains out of sight. But international sports events the kingdom is slated to host could make a difference in future.
Dr. Sebastian Sons works as senior researcher on Gulf monarchies for the German-based Center for Applied Research in Partnership with the Orient (CARPO). He holds a Ph.D. from Humboldt University of Berlin with a thesis on media discourses on labor migration from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia. He studied Islamic Studies, History, and Political Sciences in Berlin and Damascus. Prior to that, he was trained as journalist in print, TV, and radio media at the Berlin School for Journalists.
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