He pushed for Saudi membership of the World Trade Organization, surprising some.In August 2001, he ordered then Saudi Ambassador to the US, Bandar bin Sultan, to return to Washington.Beginning 1985, SANG also sponsored the Janadiriyah festival that institutionalized traditional folk dances, camel races and tribal heritage.On 13 June 1982 – the day King Khalid died – Fahd bin Abdulaziz became King, Prince Abdullah became Crown Prince the same day and also maintained his position as head of the National Guard.

He also appeared more eager than King Fahd to cut government spending and open Saudi Arabia up economically.Abdullah held important political posts throughout most of his adult life.In 1961 he became mayor of Mecca, his first public office.During his years as crown prince, Abdullah bin Abdulaziz was described as a supporter of accommodation.a large number of fringe and marginalized princes discontented with the prospect of the succession being passed among the Sudairi brothers one after the other.