Reema bint Bandar Al Saud is one of the most influential and inspiring figures in modern Saudi Arabia — a woman whose journey reflects transformation, resilience, and leadership. As the first female ambassador of Saudi Arabia to the United States, she embodies the progressive spirit of a nation undergoing rapid social and economic evolution under Vision 2030. Her remarkable achievements, both in the private and public sectors, represent a historic milestone for women not only in the Kingdom but across the Arab world.
Early Life and Family Background
Born in 1975 in Riyadh, Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud belongs to the prestigious House of Saud, the royal family that has led Saudi Arabia since its founding. She is the daughter of Prince Bandar bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, one of the Kingdom’s most respected diplomats, who served as Saudi ambassador to the United States for more than two decades. Her mother, Princess Haifa bint Faisal, is the daughter of King Faisal, which makes Reema a granddaughter of one of the Kingdom’s most visionary rulers.
Growing up in Washington, D.C., while her father was posted there as ambassador, Reema was exposed to a multicultural environment from a young age. This upbringing shaped her global outlook, allowing her to bridge Eastern and Western perspectives with natural grace. Surrounded by political discussions, diplomacy, and international affairs, she developed a strong understanding of global relations and cultural sensitivity — skills that would later define her diplomatic career.
Education and Formative Years
Princess Reema’s education was both rigorous and diverse. She attended the George Washington University in the United States, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies. Her academic background in art, culture, and heritage management gave her a unique appreciation for the preservation of history and identity. She also completed internships at prestigious cultural institutions, such as the Smithsonian’s Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, which further deepened her cultural and managerial insight.
Her time abroad offered her an opportunity to observe how societies empower women through education, leadership, and community involvement. This exposure played a crucial role in inspiring her to promote similar opportunities for Saudi women once she returned to her homeland.
Return to Saudi Arabia and Entry into Business
After completing her studies, Princess Reema returned to Saudi Arabia during a period when women’s roles in the workforce were still limited. However, she was determined to challenge the status quo. She entered the retail industry and became the Chief Executive Officer of Alfa International Company Ltd., the group responsible for managing the upscale Harvey Nichols department store in Riyadh.
Under her leadership, the company became a model for integrating women into the workforce in a respectful and empowering manner. She established workplace nurseries and introduced new training and advancement programs for female employees, demonstrating that women could thrive in corporate settings while maintaining cultural values. Her management style emphasized inclusion, education, and personal growth — values that resonated with the Kingdom’s evolving vision of modernization.
Championing Women’s Empowerment
Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud’s contributions to women’s empowerment extend beyond corporate initiatives. She co-founded Yibreen, one of Saudi Arabia’s first female-oriented wellness centers, focusing on physical health and well-being. At a time when women’s gyms and fitness spaces were scarce, her initiative represented a bold step toward improving women’s health opportunities in the Kingdom.
She also played a key role in establishing the Zahra Breast Cancer Awareness Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and supporting women affected by breast cancer. Her involvement in Zahra reflected her belief that empowerment begins with awareness — particularly in health and education.
Through these initiatives, Princess Reema became a pioneer in advocating for social responsibility, public health, and equal opportunity for women in Saudi Arabia. Her humanitarian work earned her recognition both at home and abroad, positioning her as one of the most respected female leaders in the Middle East.
Role in Sports and Public Leadership
In 2016, Reema bint Bandar Al Saud transitioned into public service when she was appointed as Vice President for Women’s Affairs at the Saudi General Sports Authority. This appointment marked a turning point in the history of Saudi women in government roles.
Her leadership promoted female participation in sports, an area that had long been limited to men. She spearheaded programs encouraging girls to engage in physical education and athletic training, paving the way for Saudi Arabia to include women in international sports competitions.
Later, she became President of the Mass Participation Federation, making her the first Saudi woman to lead a multi-sport federation in the Kingdom. Under her leadership, the federation launched initiatives to increase public engagement in fitness and sports, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal to improve the quality of life through health and wellness.
Princess Reema’s approach to sports was not just about physical activity — it was about inclusivity, representation, and national pride. Her message was clear: empowering women strengthens communities, economies, and nations.
Appointment as Saudi Arabia’s First Female Ambassador to the United States
In February 2019, Princess Reema made history once again when she was appointed as Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States — the first woman to ever hold this position in the Kingdom’s diplomatic history. Her appointment symbolized a new era for Saudi diplomacy, reflecting the government’s commitment to greater gender representation in leadership roles.
When she presented her credentials to then U.S. President Donald Trump in July 2019, she did so as a representative of both her country’s traditions and its transformation. Her diplomatic style blends professionalism, empathy, and cultural intelligence, allowing her to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes with grace and strength.
As ambassador, Princess Reema focused on strengthening Saudi-American relations through dialogue, transparency, and collaboration. She emphasized shared goals in areas like education, investment, counterterrorism, and cultural exchange.
Her tenure also coincided with a period of significant change within Saudi Arabia — from social reforms to economic diversification under Vision 2030. She became an articulate voice in international discussions about these reforms, particularly in addressing misconceptions about Saudi society and highlighting the Kingdom’s evolving role in global affairs.
Recognition and Global Influence
Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud has been widely recognized for her contributions to leadership and diplomacy. She has appeared on multiple global power and influence lists, including Forbes Middle East’s “200 Most Powerful Arab Women” and Fast Company’s “Most Creative People.”
She was also named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, an honour that reflects her impact in driving social and economic progress. Her reputation as a forward-thinking leader has made her a sought-after speaker at international conferences, where she often discusses women’s empowerment, youth engagement, and sustainable development.
Her influence extends beyond diplomacy. She sits on advisory boards for several organizations, including the Future Investment Initiative Institute, and supports global partnerships that encourage entrepreneurship, innovation, and cross-cultural understanding.
Leadership Philosophy and Vision
Princess Reema’s leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in empathy, education, and progress. She often speaks about the importance of creating environments where both men and women can thrive. She believes that empowering women is not a matter of charity or tokenism but a necessity for national growth and stability.
Her work demonstrates a balanced approach between modernity and tradition — showing that progress in Saudi Arabia can evolve within the framework of its cultural and religious identity. Her leadership is not about challenging tradition for its own sake but about reinterpreting it in ways that serve the country’s long-term development.
Personal Life and Legacy
Princess Reema was previously married to Prince Faisal bin Turki bin Nasser Al Saud, with whom she has two children. Despite her high-profile background, she maintains a reputation for humility and professionalism, often describing her success as a collective achievement of all Saudi women who strive to make a difference.
Her personal journey mirrors Saudi Arabia’s broader transformation — one of growth, reform, and optimism. She has shown that women can lead in diplomacy, business, and community development while staying true to their values.
As a role model for young women, Princess Reema inspires a generation that sees possibility where there were once limitations. Her achievements continue to redefine what it means to be a leader in the modern Arab world.
Conclusion
Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud stands as a powerful symbol of change, determination, and vision. Her life’s work bridges cultures, challenges stereotypes, and empowers communities. Whether in boardrooms, sports arenas, or diplomatic halls, she has proven that leadership knows no gender.
Her journey reflects the essence of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 — a vision built on empowerment, innovation, and global cooperation. Through her unwavering dedication, Princess Reema continues to shape history, inspiring millions to believe that progress is not only possible but inevitable.