The move has upset critics of Mohammed bin Salman, the 31-year old who has been elevated to the new post.

Meanwhile, the previous crown prince, 57-year-old Mohammed bin Nayef has been removed from both his position and as next in line to the throne.

He has also been removed from his post as an interior minister.

Pundits have opined that Wednesday's move was done in order to engage the Saudi youths as Mohammed bin Salman is viewed as a hard-working youth leader .

The large youth population also see him as a hopeful candidate.

Meanwhile, his critics have termed him as power hungry, inexperienced and impetuous.

image: King Salman image from Secretary of Defense/Wikipedia

Mohammad bin Salman's image from Mohammed Bin Salman al-Saud's Office/Wikipedia