The 25th son of King Abdulaziz , the founder of Saudi Arabia , he assumed the throne on 23 January Salman is the third oldest living head of state , the oldest living monarch, and Saudi Arabia's first head of state born after the unification of Saudi Arabia. He was the deputy governor of Riyadh and later the governor of Riyadh for 48 years from to He was then appointed minister of defense.
He was named crown prince in Salman became king in upon the death of his half-brother, King Abdullah. Since January , he is the oldest surviving son of King Abdulaziz. Salman's major initiatives as king include the Saudi intervention in the Yemeni Civil War , Saudi Vision , and a decree allowing Saudi women to drive.
His seventh son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman , is considered the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia due to the King's poor health and Mohammed's own political maneuvering. Salman was born on 31 December , and is reported to be the 25th son of King Abdulaziz , the first monarch and founder of Saudi Arabia. Salman received his early education at the Princes' School [ 8 ] in the capital city of Riyadh , a school established by King Abdulaziz specifically to provide education for his children.
Salman was appointed Deputy Governor of Riyadh Province on 17 March , aged 18, and held the post until 19 April As governor, Salman contributed to the development of Riyadh from a mid-sized town into a major urban metropolis. He served as an important liaison to attract tourism, capital projects, and foreign investment to his country. He favored political and economic relationships with the West.
During Salman's five decades as Riyadh governor, he became adept at managing the delicate balance of clerical, tribal, and princely interests that determine Saudi policy. Salman also undertook several foreign tours while he was governor.
