Princess Reema bint Bandar: Walking in her father’s footsteps

This combination picture shows Prince Bandar bin Sultan (left) at his office in the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Washington D.C. 35 years ago, and his daughter, Princess Reema bint Bandar, on her assumption of the post on July 4, 2019. (Supplied photo)

• Sworn in as Saudi Arabia's top diplomat to the US on April 16, Princess Reema is the Kingdom's first female ambassador
• Some 35 years earlier, her father performed the same oath, holding the prestigious post from 1984-2005

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the US, Princess Reema bint Bandar, caused a stir on social media after an image of her standing in her new office in Washington DC became public, taken in the same office as was occupied by her father, Prince Bandar bin Sultan, 35 years ago.

The prince had a similar portrait taken of himself when he was appointed ambassador, and many Twitter and Instagram users reposted the two images side by side. Some commented on how the newly appointed ambassador was “walking in her father’s footsteps” with one adding “like father, like daughter.” Young Saudis continued to repost the images with messages of good luck, as the ambassador started her new role. 

Prominent Saudi writer Hussein Shobokshi wrote: “Her father’s daughter … Ambassador Rima bint Bandar bin Sultan.”