From Mosque to Media: How Saudi Arabia Implements Its Soft Power Strategy in Pakistan.

This article analyzes Saudi Arabia's use of soft power strategies to influence Pakistan, emphasizing the role of religious and media institutions. Saudi Arabia leverages its status as the birthplace of Islam and custodian of its two holiest sites to promote a conservative Sunni Islamic ideology through funding mosques, religious schools, scholarships, and media outlets in Pakistan. This influence has contributed to the "Arabization" of Pakistan's religious and cultural landscape, aligning it more closely with Saudi interpretations of Islam, while also fostering strong political, economic, and social ties between the two countries. Despite widespread favorable views of Saudi Arabia among Pakistanis, these efforts have drawn criticism over concerns about the impact on Pakistan's traditional religious practices and societal norms. The article situates Saudi Arabia's soft power within broader international relations theories, highlighting its multifaceted approach combining religious, cultural, economic, and diplomatic tools.