Table of Contents
Prince Khalid al-Faisal is a notable figure in Saudi Arabia’s recent history. He is recognized for his wisdom, leadership, and passion for culture and education. His life goes beyond royal duties; it also includes creativity, intelligence, and a commitment to serving the nation.
Biography of Prince Khalid al-Faisal
| Name | Prince Khalid Bin Faisal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 1940. |
| Place of Birth | Makkah al-Mukarramah City. |
| Present Position | Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Governor of Makkah al-Mukarramah Region. |
| Education | Bachelor of Science in Political and Economic Sciences from Oxford University in 1966. |
| Most Prominent Awards | King Abdulaziz Scarf in 2019. |
Who is Prince Khalid al-Faisal
His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Bin Faisal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud , commonly known as Khalid al-Faisal, was born in 1940 in Makkah al-Mukarramah. He holds one of the most important positions in the Kingdom today he is an Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Governor of Makkah Province, and the Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee.
He is the ninth prince to govern the Emirate of Makkah Province and the first to be appointed twice to this role. Notably, he was also the last person named Minister of Education before the ministry was renamed the Ministry of Education under a reorganization.
A Royal Family Rooted in Leadership
Prince Khalid is the third son of King Faisal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the visionary third ruler of modern Saudi Arabia. His brothers include Prince Saud al-Faisal, long-serving Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, Prince Abdullah al-Faisal, and Prince Turki al-Faisal, former head of Saudi intelligence.
Growing up, Prince Khalid was surrounded by both tradition and global thinking. A balance that would shape his future leadership style.
Early Education and Global Exposure
Prince Khalid received his early education in Saudi Arabia. He studied the Qur’an and completed his first two years of primary school at the Princes’ School in Al-Ahsa . He then continued his studies at a model school in Taif , graduating in 1957 .
To broaden his horizons, he traveled to the United States for further education. He spent four years at HUN School in New Jersey , followed by studies at Princeton Schools , where he earned his American Secondary Diploma in 1961 . He later graduated from the prestigious University of Oxford in 1966 with a Bachelor’s degree in Political and Economic Sciences .
A Career Built on Service and Vision
Prince Khalid began his public service career in 1967 as the Director of Youth Care , a role that laid the foundation for what is now the Ministry of Sport.
From 1971 to 2007 , he served as the Governor of Aseer Province , a tenure spanning over three decades marked by development and progress. In 2007 , he was appointed Governor of Makkah Province , a position of immense religious and cultural significance.
Then, in 2013 , he took on the role of Minister of Education , where he worked for about a year before returning to his previous post as Governor of Makkah in January 2015 , following a royal decree.
More Than a Leader – A Thinker, Poet, and Artist
Prince Khalid al-Faisal is not only a leader but also a writer, poet, and artist . Known by the pen name “Daim al-Saif” , he has authored numerous books and poetry collections. Some of his notable works include:
- Nabataean Poems
- The Second Divan
- Letter, Color, and Weight of Speech
- From the Kaaba to the Kaaba: Building Man and Developing the Place
He also founded literary institutions like the Abha Literary Club and the Arab Thought Foundation , and played a key role in establishing the King Faisal International Award , which honors excellence in Islamic and scientific fields.
Key Roles and Contributions
Today, Prince Khalid continues to hold influential roles across Saudi Arabia’s cultural and charitable sectors, including:
- Chairman of the King Faisal International Award
- Chairman of the Arab Thought Foundation
- Vice President of the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity
- Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee
He also serves as the Director General of the King Faisal Charitable Foundation , which supports humanitarian and educational causes worldwide.
Honors and Recognition
Throughout his life, Prince Khalid has been honored with many prestigious awards, including:
- The Grand Cordon of King Abdulaziz from King Salman in 2019
- The Villa Vicenza Medal (Great Rank) in 2001
- The Order of Francis I (Great Rank)
- The Order of Saint Maurice and Saint Lazarus (Great Rank)
- The Order of the Royal Renaissance of First Class from Jordan in 1999
Even early in his career, he was recognized for youth leadership, receiving the Medal of Leadership for Youth Day in 1970.
A Legacy That Inspires
Prince Khalid al-Faisal’s life is a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s journey. Blending tradition with innovation, faith with knowledge, and leadership with compassion. As both a statesman and a scholar, he continues to inspire generations through his writings, policies, and dedication to the betterment of society.
From the holy city of Makkah to the halls of Oxford, and from youth programs to international awards, Prince Khalid’s legacy is etched into the heart of the Kingdom and beyond.
Stay Updated
🔔 Follow us for latest news and guides:
✅ WhatsApp Channel
☑️ Telegram Channel
Related Articles:
- History of Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide
- Arabian Camel: A Comprehensive Guide
- Ancient Pottery Vessel: A Best Historical Guide
