Princess Reema Bandar al-Saud, a familiar face in Washington circles, has taken on a challenging role as Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States. The daughter of Prince Bandar bin Sultan, a prominent diplomat, Princess Reema has navigated a complex political landscape since assuming her post in July 2019.
Her arrival in Washington came shortly after the brutal murder of Jamal Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist, which strained relations between Saudi Arabia and the U.S. She faced the daunting task of rehabilitating Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s image in the aftermath of the Khashoggi killing, a task made even more difficult by the shifting dynamics of the Trump and Biden administrations.
Despite these challenges, Princess Reema has played a crucial role in fostering a renewed dialogue between the two nations. She has leveraged her connections and experience to engage with key policymakers in Washington and promote Saudi Arabia’s modernization efforts.
One of her key achievements has been engaging in discussions to normalize relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, a significant step towards regional stability. Princess Reema’s diplomatic finesse and strategic approach have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of U.S.-Saudi relations.
While she faces criticism and skepticism from some quarters, Princess Reema remains committed to fostering dialogue and understanding between the two nations. Her unique position as a Saudi woman with deep ties to Washington has positioned her as a crucial bridge-builder in the realm of international diplomacy.
As she continues to navigate the intricate world of diplomacy, Princess Reema remains focused on promoting peace and cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the United States. Her dedication to this mission, despite the challenges she faces, underscores her commitment to building a more harmonious future for both nations.