Britain’s Prince William arrived in Riyadh on Monday for his first official visit to Saudi Arabia. He was welcomed at King Khalid International Airport by Deputy Emir of Riyadh Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman, Saudi Ambassador to the United Kingdom Prince Abdullah bin Khalid bin Sultan, and British Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Stephen Charles Hitchen.
Meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
During the three-day visit, Prince William is scheduled to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Kensington Palace said. The trip, conducted on behalf of the British government, aims to strengthen bilateral ties between the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia. It follows a 2025 visit by Britain’s finance minister, which led to trade and investment deals worth £6.4 billion ($8.7 billion).
Focus on Economic, Cultural, and Environmental Initiatives
Apart from the meeting with the Crown Prince, the Prince of Wales will participate in events highlighting Saudi Arabia’s economic reforms, cultural initiatives, and environmental programs. This includes engagements related to sustainability, urban development, women’s sports, e-sports, conservation, and cultural cooperation.
Previous Interaction with the Saudi Leader
This will not be Prince William’s first encounter with Mohammed bin Salman. In March 2018, William and his father, then-Prince Charles, hosted the Saudi Crown Prince at a dinner at Clarence House in London, while Queen Elizabeth II held a separate lunch with him the same day.
Visit to AlUla and Cultural Engagements
Prince William will also travel to AlUla, the ancient oasis city in northwestern Saudi Arabia. There, he will visit wildlife reserves, meet local communities, and tour Prince of Wales House, a newly established UK cultural space designed to promote collaboration in arts and heritage.
