Who is Princess Reema bint Bandar? Saudi Arabia’s First Female Ambassador to the U.S.

Princess Reema bint Bandar bin Sultan made history in 2019 when she was appointed as Saudi Arabia’s first female ambassador to the United States — and the first woman from the Saudi royal family to hold such a position. Her appointment marks a historic shift in a traditionally male-dominated political and diplomatic landscape.

Princess Reema’s appointment is seen as part of the broader reforms under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a national plan spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to modernize the Kingdom’s economy and society. Her prominent diplomatic role reflects growing opportunities for Saudi women and a redefined image of Saudi Arabia on the global stage.

The Controversial Handshake with Donald Trump

During U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, Princess Reema was seen shaking hands with the president — a moment that sparked significant debate and controversy within conservative circles in Saudi Arabia.
Trump’s decision to hold her hand longer than expected added fuel to the criticism.

This incident is being interpreted by many as both a symbol of progress and a source of cultural tension, especially among conservative factions in the Kingdom.

Royal Roots and Western Education

Born in 1975 in Riyadh, Princess Reema spent most of her childhood in Washington, D.C., while her father, Prince Bandar bin Sultan, served as the Saudi Ambassador to the U.S. from 1983 to 2005. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Museum Studies from George Washington University, giving her a unique perspective bridging Western and Middle Eastern cultures.

Championing Women and Sports in Saudi Arabia

Before becoming ambassador, Princess Reema was already a pioneer for women’s empowerment. She:

• Served as Vice President for Planning and Development at the General Sports Authority, where she helped introduce physical education for girls in Saudi schools.

• In 2017, she became the first woman to lead a multi-sport federation in Saudi Arabia, as president of the Mass Participation Federation.

Her efforts have been hailed by various organizations, including the Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee (SAOC) and the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), as a “remarkable achievement.”