The recent visit of Ahmad Al-Sharaa to Saudi Arabia marks a significant moment in the evolving dynamics of Syria’s post-Assad era. Saudi Arabia’s proactive engagement with the Syrian political landscape underscores its determination to shape the region’s future rather than merely react to unfolding events. With Bashar Assad’s regime collapsing, Riyadh is keen on playing a strategic role in Syria’s transition to stability, ensuring that it aligns with broader Arab security imperatives while safeguarding its national interests.

Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy toward Syria has always revolved around securing regional stability, countering extremism, and maintaining an Arab-led security framework. Unlike previous passive approaches, Riyadh is now an active stakeholder in shaping Syria’s future. The Kingdom has been leveraging diplomatic, humanitarian, and political initiatives to navigate the shifting geopolitical landscape.

With Iran and its allied militias withdrawing, and Russia reducing its military and political footprint, a significant power vacuum has emerged in Syria. This void presents both opportunities and challenges. Türkiye, eager to expand its regional influence, has adopted a soft power approach toward Damascus. In response, Saudi Arabia has sought to ensure that Syria’s transition does not come under the disproportionate influence of non-Arab actors. By taking an early lead, Riyadh aims to maintain equilibrium in the Middle East, facilitate Syria’s reintegration into the Arab world, and lay the groundwork for a sustainable peace.

One of Riyadh’s primary objectives in Syria is to support efforts to rebuild the war-ravaged country while ensuring the establishment of a stable and inclusive governance system. Unlike external interventions that impose ideological or sectarian........

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