Gee, and I thought it was because of the Kerry/Edwards ticket...

Actually, the reason he gave was to take advantage of the Saudi amnesty ( well, they promise not to execute them) for terrorists who surrender.

CNN story


a quote from the end of the article:

"After arriving in Saudi Arabia, al-Harbi made a statement broadcast on Saudi TV.

"I called the embassy, and we felt that we were welcomed, they were among family. Thank God for this blessing," he said.

"I came because I abide by the word of God and that of the caretaker of the holy sites. This initiative from the caretaker of the holy sites and the king is an opportunity. And our country is the country of Islam.

"Undoubtedly, it is an opportunity any logical man would thank God -- every logical man should take advantage of this opportunity." "