The Council of Ministers, also called the Cabinet, advises the King and
facilitates the country’s development. It represents 22 different government
ministries and is presided over each week by the King or his deputy.
The Cabinet is responsible for drafting and overseeing implementation of
the internal, external, financial, economic, education and defense policies as
well as the general affairs of the State.
The Cabinet consists of the Prime Minister (the King), the Deputy Prime
Minister (the Crown Prince, who currently is also a Minister with portfolio),
21 other ministers with portfolio and seven ministers of state.
It is the final authority for financial, executive and administrative
matters. Its resolutions are non-binding unless agreed upon by a majority vote.
In case of a tie, the prime minister casts the tie-breaking vote. It functions
in accordance with the Basic System of Governance and is advised by the Majlis
Al-Shura (Consultative Council).
Established in 1953 by King Saud, the Cabinet was restructured by King Fahd
in 1993
