The deposition of King Saud of Saudi Arabia marked a significant turning point in the kingdom's political landscape. Saud, who had been king since the death of his father, Abdulaziz Al Saud, in 1953, faced mounting discontent due to his increasing unpopularity, economic mismanagement, and lack of administrative effectiveness. His lavish lifestyle and extensive foreign travel contrasted sharply with the growing needs and dissatisfaction of the Saudi populace, contributing to calls for change within the royal family. The coup against Saud was orchestrated by a faction led by his half-brother, Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, who was highly respected and enjoyed widespread support among the military and political elites of the kingdom. On November 2, 1964, after weeks of political maneuvering, Saud was officially deposed. Faisal immediately assumed the throne, promising to implement necessary reforms and restore public confidence in the monarchy. The transition of power was largely peaceful, reflecting the structured nature of succession within the royal family.

In the aftermath of the coup, King Faisal focused on modernization efforts that aimed to build a more robust economic framework, emphasizing development projects and infrastructure. He introduced policies that aligned Saudi Arabia more closely with both Western interests and Arab nationalism. This period saw the establishment of educational institutions, healthcare improvements, and the beginnings of significant oil revenue management. Faisal's leadership was characterized by a mix of traditional royal authority and a push for modernization, setting the stage for Saudi Arabia's development in the late 20th century. The change in leadership shifted the dynamics within the royal family and reflected the ongoing struggle in balancing traditional values with the needs of a rapidly evolving state.