The Daily Telegraph reports that a British source close to the Gulf state was told of the plans earlier this year, while key states, including the US and Iran, have also been briefed about the succession.
Military observers point to the future leader’s close association with the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood as a potential clue that the crown prince will not be as liberal as his father.
The handover could impact looming policy changes, such as a new cybercrime law that would strengthen government oversight over news websites and online commentaries.
