The strategic hedging approach is a policy adopted by weaker states in response to more powerful states, particularly hegemonic powers, during periods of geopolitical order transition. Such countries select their strategies to minimise risks and challenges in the event of any shifts in the global power system. Given the current state of the global order, it appears that the structure of the global system is changing, and Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy, which has historically been based on close relations with the United States, is now being redefined with other global powers like China and Russia. The Saudi Kingdom, anticipating a potential shift in the global structure, has organised its internal and external components to minimise challenges should the global order change. Therefore, it has adopted a foreign policy approach referred to as strategic hedging. This study uses neoclassical realism to examine Saudi Arabia's strategic hedging approach in its foreign policy towards the United States and China. The research is applied in nature and employs a qualitative methodology with a descriptive and analytical approach. Utilising library resources and documentary analysis, the study aims to answer the question: "What is Saudi Arabia's foreign policy approach within the framework of strategic hedging against the United States and China?" It appears that while Saudi Arabia maintains its cooperation with the United States, it has expanded its relations with China to mitigate risks associated with changes in the global order. The Kingdom has sought to engage economically, militarily, and politically with both global powers in a way that minimises risks to Saudi Arabia in the event of a potential hegemonic shift.

This article was submitted 23.10.2024