Saudi presence in the Balkans could grow

Significance

Recent engagement with Montenegro is testimony to this, reflecting Saudi religious and economic interests in the region. Traditionally, Turkey enjoyed influence in the Balkans, and Riyadh and Ankara are increasingly competing within the region even as their own ties improve.

Impacts

• The government will use the Gaza war to bolster its position within the Arab and Muslim worlds.
• Saudi outreach to Muslim communities will help increase the number of annual pilgrims to the country’s holy sites.
• Saudi-Turkish ties will improve despite competition in the Balkans.