RIYADH ON THE RIM: SAUDI ARABIA’S STRATEGIC ASCENT IN THE BLACK SEA ARENA
RIYADH ON THE RIM: SAUDI ARABIA’S STRATEGIC ASCENT IN THE BLACK SEA ARENA

Author(s): Irina TSUKERMAN
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense
Published by: Carol I National Defence University Publishing House
Keywords: Black Sea; Saudi Arabia; Vision 2030; Energy Security; Post-Conflict Reconstruction; Strategic Infrastructure; Caucasus; Vital Trade Corridor.
Summary/Abstract: Saudi Arabia’s growing engagement in the Black Sea region marks a striking shift in the regional balance of power, extending Riyadh’s geopolitical reach beyond its traditional Gulf stronghold. Leveraging its financial clout and energy diplomacy, Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in critical infrastructure, ports, and energy projects across states like Romania, Bulgaria, and even in post-conflict reconstruction ventures tied to the Caucasus. This proactive posture aligns with Riyadh’s broader Vision 2030 goals, diversifying partnerships while subtly countering Iranian and Turkish influence. Simultaneously, it offers Black Sea states an alternative to Russian or Chinese economic entanglement. However, this strategic deepening also invites friction, as Saudi interests increasingly intersect with NATO priorities, EU regulations, and great power competition. As Riyadh plants its flag along the Black Sea rim, the region must reckon with a new external actor whose moves could reshape both energy security and regional alliances in the years ahead.

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