Princess Reema Bandar al-Saud, daughter of Prince Bandar bin Sultan, is the first woman to hold the post of Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States, a role previously held by her father. She assumed the position amidst the aftermath of the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and faced the challenge of rehabilitating Saudi Arabia’s image, particularly that of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Despite facing scrutiny and navigating a shift from the Trump administration’s warmth to President Biden’s skepticism towards Saudi Arabia, Princess Reema has worked to rebuild relations between the two countries.
Amidst the tumultuous political landscape, Princess Reema has utilized her unique position as a Saudi woman with ties to Washington to promote a new vision of the kingdom to the United States. Her efforts include engaging with key politicians and influencers, working with lobbyists to shape Saudi Arabia’s image in the U.S., and traveling across the country to spread awareness about Saudi modernization. She has also been involved in discussions regarding normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, meeting with high-profile officials to address defense measures and peace efforts in the region.
Over the years, Princess Reema has faced challenges such as backlash over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and policies, including the country’s involvement in the war in Yemen. However, she has worked diligently to address concerns raised by U.S. lawmakers and officials, advocating for peace initiatives and dialogue to resolve conflicts in the region. The kingdom’s efforts to scale back military involvement in Yemen and engage in peace talks with the Houthis reflect Princess Reema’s commitment to fostering diplomacy and stability.
Princess Reema’s background includes growing up in the United States, attending an elite school, and obtaining a degree in museum studies from George Washington University. She has drawn upon her diverse experiences in retail, activism, and sports administration in Saudi Arabia to navigate the complexities of diplomatic relations in Washington. Despite facing domestic and international challenges, she remains focused on promoting gender equity, diversification, and shared values of faith and family in her interactions with American audiences.
Princess Reema’s strategic approach to lobbying and communication efforts through firms like LS2 Group has contributed to shaping a more positive narrative about Saudi Arabia in the U.S. She has embarked on various initiatives, such as highlighting Saudi Arabia’s role as a trade partner and job creator, promoting gender equality, and emphasizing cultural ties with American communities. Through her engagements with local businesses, civic groups, and journalists, Princess Reema seeks to cultivate a more favorable perception of Saudi Arabia in the American mainstream.
As Princess Reema continues her diplomatic work, she remains steadfast in advocating for a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and maintaining firm commitments to peace negotiations. Despite the challenges and complexities of the region, she remains dedicated to forging diplomatic relations based on mutual understanding, collaboration, and shared values. Princess Reema’s efforts to navigate the shifting political landscape and foster dialogue between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia exemplify her commitment to promoting peace, stability, and progress in the Middle East and beyond.
