Why did the Barmakids become so influential in Abbasid administration?

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Arts and sciences under Hārūn al-Rashīd — Hārūn al-Rashīd Miniature by Yaḥyā ibn Maḥmūd al-Wāsiṭī in the *Maqāmāt* of al-︎Ḥarīrī depicting an Abbasid-era royal library, possibly the Bayt al-Ḥikmah in Baghdad, in the Bibliothèque Nationale, Paris.

The Barmakids, a prominent family of Iranian origin, gained significant influence in the Abbasid administration primarily through their long-standing service, political maneuvering, and close personal ties to the caliphs.1

Their rise was rooted in several key factors:

Early Loyalty: Khālid ibn Barmak was a key supporter of the revolutionary movement that established the Abbasid caliphate, earning him early administrative roles and the trust of the caliphs.1
Mentorship and Succession: The Barmakids secured their position by serving as tutors and advisers to future rulers. Specifically, Yaḥyā ibn Khālid acted as secretary-tutor to Hārūn al-Rashīd, playing a decisive role in ensuring his succession.1
Administrative Competence: The family held high-level positions, including governorships and the title of wazīr (vizier). They were responsible for managing the army, tax collection, and the central government, effectively placing the administration in their hands during Hārūn al-Rashīd’s reign.1
Political Alliances: Their influence was bolstered by strategic alliances, such as their collaboration with the queen mother, al-Khayzurān, to secure power for Hārūn al-Rashīd.1