Saudi Diplomacy

The Saudi diplomacy refers to the set of international relations, along with associated agreements and treaties, implemented by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in line with global diplomatic principles and protocols. Its directions are shaped by the policies of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, based on respect for the rules of public international law, in a manner that safeguards its national interests and strengthens Saudi Arbaia’s role in promoting security, stability, and prosperity in the region and the world.

Diplomatic representation of Saudi Arabia

Permanent diplomatic representation in Saudi Arabia began after its unification under the leadership of the Founding King Abdulaziz Bin Abdulrahman Al Saud, with the establishment of the "Directorate of Foreign Affairs" on August 29, 1926, headquartered in Makkah Al-Mukarramah. A Royal Decree was later issued converting it into the "Ministry of Foreign Affairs" in 1930, appointing Prince Faisal Bin Abdulaziz (later King Faisal) as Minister of Foreign Affairs. In the same year, Saudi Arabia established its first foreign legation in London, followed by a legation in Baghdad and a consulate in Damascus in 1933, then in Cairo in 1936.

After the end of World War II, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs elevated its representation to embassy level in several countries around the world, where Saudi Arabia began solidifying bonds of friendship and understanding, joining international and regional treaties, and signing agreements for the exchange of diplomatic representation.

Saudi Arabia maintains diplomatic relations with countries around the world. As of 2023, the number of Saudi diplomatic missions totaled 128 missions, and Saudi Arabia ranked twenty-fourth globally in the "Global Diplomacy Index," which monitors global diplomatic affairs.

Saudi diplomacy and the United Nations

Saudi Arabia joined the United Nations as a founding member of the Charter on June 26, 1945. King Faisal signed the Charter in San Francisco, which expanded Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic representation and contributed to the United Nations’ development assistance. Twenty-three UN agencies, funds, and programs, including regional offices, collaborate with Saudi Arabia. These UN entities coordinate with Saudi Arabia to support the achievement of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the National Transformation Program, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations

The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations came into effect in Saudi Arabia on September 22, 1980. It aims to establish diplomatic relations between countries, exchange permanent diplomatic missions, strengthen political, economic, and scientific ties, and maintain international peace and security.

Directions of Saudi diplomacy

The Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz, defined the directions of Saudi diplomacy in 2021, stating: "Our interests and foreign policy are based on our interests and maintaining our security." He defined influence as "achieving interest," emphasizing that Saudi Arabia would not accept any pressure or interference in its internal affairs, while affirming the strengthening of alliances with partners around the world.

Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies

With Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the international community and the expanding responsibilities of its officials in diplomatic affairs, the Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies was established in 1979 in Jeddah City. It aims to train and prepare the Ministry of Foreign Affairs personnel and diplomatic representatives, in line with contemporary diplomatic standards that align with global developments and the ministry’s needs. The institute also supports research centers, think tanks, regional and international organizations, and organizes conferences, seminars, panel discussions, and workshops on topics related to the activities of Saudi diplomatic representatives.