Ahmad al-Mansur is the sixth ruler of the Sa'di dynasty, which he has raised to its zenith of power by his policy of centralization and astute diplomacy.

Also called Al-dhahabi (the Golden), al-Mansur has resisted the demands of his nominal suzerain, the Ottoman sultan, by playing off the European powers, namely, France, Portugal, Spain, and England, against one another in order to preserve Moroccan independence.

During the early years of his rule a largely mercenary army had been trained and led by Ottoman Turks.

The administrative system of the government had been centralized, and important state officials had been given land assignments and exempted from taxation.

A survey of property had been made, and land revenue collected directly.

Agriculture and the sugar industry have been developed.

Marrakech, the capital city, has been restored to its former grandeur.

Al-Mansur establishes trade and diplomatic relations with Spain, effectively breaking the monopoly held since 1585 by the Barbary Company, which had been formed by British merchants to control foreign trade.