Sources of decision-making and determinants of Saudi foreign policy

Abstract

The Horn of Africa is a vital maritime gateway overlooking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, making it of paramount importance to maritime security, particularly with regard to the passage of oil tankers and global trade. Saudi Arabia is keen to secure these waterways to ensure stable energy supplies and protect its economic interests.

Saudi Arabia seeks to strengthen its presence in the Horn of Africa to confront security challenges such as terrorist threats and piracy. It also aims to limit the influence of some competing regional powers and ensure stability in the region, which will positively impact the Kingdom's security. Saudi Arabia invests in infrastructure, agriculture, and ports in the Horn of Africa, as the Kingdom's economic interests are linked to exploiting the region's natural resources and emerging markets.

To enhance its influence, the Kingdom played a role in the reconciliation between Ethiopia and Eritrea in 2018, strengthening its position as an influential regional power based on the import of agricultural products and livestock from the Horn of Africa. This makes enhancing stability there essential to ensuring the continued flow of these resources.

Therefore, the Horn of Africa region remains a key focus of the Kingdom's foreign policy, whether through enhancing security and economic investment or by playing a mediating role in conflict resolution.