Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Since the royal decree of Sept. 23, 1932, proclaiming the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the leadership of King Abdulaziz Al Saud, the nation has been ruled by seven kings.
Each monarch left his own imprint, steering the country through eras of expansion, development, reform, and global recognition, while maintaining the core principles on which the state was built.
The founder of modern Saudi Arabia, King Abdulaziz established the Kingdom on faith, unity, and resilience.
From the capture of Riyadh in 1902 to the proclamation of the Kingdom three decades later, his leadership unified tribes and regions under a single state.
His era laid the foundations of governance, ministries, and international diplomacy.
It also witnessed the discovery of oil in 1938, an event that would forever alter the Kingdom’s trajectory.
King Abdulaziz passed away in 1953, leaving behind a state built on unity and stability.
Following the founder’s death, his son King Saud assumed the throne as the first heir.
His reign focused on modernizing infrastructure, expanding education, and strengthening institutions.
The establishment of universities, the growth of ministries, and the construction of hospitals and schools reflected his commitment to development.
However, challenges in governance and finances marked his era, leading to his abdication in 1964 in favor of his brother.
King Faisal’s era was one of reform and decisive leadership.
He prioritized administrative modernization, enhanced education, and introduced economic planning.
His foreign policy elevated Saudi Arabia’s global standing, particularly during the 1973 oil embargo, which reshaped international relations.
Faisal was known for his advocacy of Islamic solidarity and his efforts to strengthen ties within the Muslim world.
His reign ended tragically with his assassination in 1975.
King Khalid’s rule coincided with soaring oil revenues, fueling unprecedented development.
Infrastructure projects expanded rapidly, with highways, hospitals, and schools built across the Kingdom.
His leadership emphasized continuity and stability while overseeing a society experiencing transformative change.
Despite health challenges that limited his activity, his reign became synonymous with prosperity and expansion.
Known as the “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques,” a title he adopted in 1986, King Fahd led Saudi Arabia into the modern era.
His reign witnessed massive investment in education, industry, and infrastructure.
He played a pivotal role during the Gulf War, hosting coalition forces in 1990–1991 and positioning the Kingdom as a central actor in regional stability.
King Fahd’s long rule also saw the expansion of the Two Holy Mosques and further institutionalization of the Saudi state.
King Abdullah’s reign was marked by reforms in education, women’s empowerment, and judicial development.
He oversaw the establishment of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), invested in healthcare, and introduced scholarship programs that sent thousands of Saudis abroad.
His era also strengthened the consultative Shoura Council and expanded opportunities for women, including their eventual participation in municipal elections.
His leadership was defined by gradual reform balanced with continuity.
King Salman ascended to the throne in 2015, bringing decades of administrative experience as governor of Riyadh.
His era has been defined by Vision 2030, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to diversify the economy, empower youth, and reshape the future of the Kingdom.
Under his leadership, Saudi Arabia has pursued major development projects, strengthened its global partnerships, and redefined its social and economic landscape while maintaining its role as a leader in the Arab and Islamic worlds.
From Abdulaziz to Salman, the seven kings of Saudi Arabia have guided the Kingdom through nearly a century of profound change.
Each monarch faced the challenges of his era with decisions that shaped the nation’s trajectory, ensuring stability while laying foundations for future generations.
Their collective legacy reflects a story of resilience, transformation, and enduring commitment to unity.
