Abdullah of Saudi Arabia

Lore & Background

He pushed for Saudi membership in the World Trade Organization and promoted a national dialogue to address religious extremism after al-Qaeda bombings in 2003. Upon becoming king, he declared the national day a public holiday, reshuffled the education ministry, and appointed a woman as deputy education minister. He married up to 30 times and had more than 35 children.

Reader's Guide

Abdullah's significance lies in his long tenure as a stabilizing force in Saudi Arabia, first as de facto ruler after King Fahd's stroke and then as king during a period of regional upheaval. He maintained close relations with the United States and the United Kingdom, purchasing billions of dollars in defense equipment. His Arab Peace Initiative represented a major diplomatic effort to resolve the Arab–Israeli conflict. Domestically, he introduced cautious reforms, such as making the national day a public holiday and appointing a woman to a senior education post, while preserving the political status quo during the Arab Spring. His control of the National Guard was key to his political rise. However, his reign also included the captivity of four of his daughters, fathered with Al Anoud Al Fayez whom he married when she was age 15. His legacy is that of a conservative modernizer who balanced tradition with limited change.

Did You Know?

• Abdullah was the tenth son of King Abdulaziz, founder of Saudi Arabia.
• His mother, Fahda bint Asi Al Shuraim, was a member of the Al Rashid dynasty, historical rivals of the Al Saud.
• He held four of his daughters captive against their will.