Saudi police fired shots Thursday at protesters in the eastern city of Qatif as Shiite Muslims prepare to demonstrate against the regime.  

Demonstrations are rare in Saudi Arabia, but online activists are calling for a "Day of Rage" across the conservative kingdom, Friday.

Authorities have deployed thousands of extra security forces to head off any potential uprising.

Saudi's Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal has also sworn to "cut off any finger" raised against the royal family's regime.

Saudi Arabia is home to Islam's holiest site in Mecca. The Gulf nation is the world's largest exporter of crude oil. Any hint of instability could have devastating consequences on the price of oil.

Organizers are optimistic the protests will bring needed change and reform.  But could demonstrations similar to those seen throughout the Arab world challenge the House of Saud?

CBN News Sr. International Correspondent George Thomas spoke with Saudi expert Al Fadi.  He said he doubts there will be any serious danger to the royal Saudi family's rule over the kingdom.

Click play to watch all of Fadi's comments.