Celebrating the growing diversity of the US-Saudi partnership

The celebration of Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day is an opportunity to reflect on the long-standing US-Saudi partnership, which began shortly after the Kingdom’s unification in 1932 with our first diplomatic and consular agreement. Over the decades, that partnership has evolved into a strategic relationship that extends far beyond its initial focus on energy and security.
Our bilateral ties today are broader and more diverse than ever, encompassing collaboration in business, technology, education, the arts, culture, space, sports and more. I am honored to serve in Saudi Arabia during this transformative era and am inspired by the depth of our constantly expanding relationship. Our cooperation is creating opportunities for Americans and Saudis to learn from each other and build unique skill sets, driving economic growth in both our countries.
Saudi Arabia, much like the US, is a nation of innovation. Saudis and Americans value innovation, entrepreneurship and being at the forefront of technology. From medical diagnostics to gaming, the future of the US-Saudi partnerships in technology and digital transformation is incredibly promising. As Saudi Arabia develops its economy, the role of American companies working with their Saudi partners will be crucial in providing the expertise, innovation and technological infrastructure that will support Saudi ambitions. We anticipate that these partnerships will lead to the creation of new job opportunities and advancements that will benefit both our countries.
Education remains a cornerstone of our relationship, with thousands of Saudi students studying in the US each year. We also anticipate welcoming more American students to Saudi Arabia’s academic institutions. Exciting developments, such as a new Fulbright program for Americans to come to the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and Arizona State University’s collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Education to establish a dual-degree university, highlight the deepening of our educational ties. Our cooperation is also expanding into areas such as early childhood education and inclusive programs for deaf students, further strengthening the bonds between our nations.

Education remains a cornerstone of our relationship, with thousands of Saudi students studying in the US each year.

Michael A. Ratney

In the space sector, our partnership has flourished since 1985, when Prince Sultan bin Salman joined the American space shuttle Discovery crew. Our recently signed framework agreement on space exploration marks another milestone in our shared commitment to innovation. Together, we are pushing the boundaries of what is possible, not just in space but across all sectors of our relationship.
The diversity of our relationship today also reflects our growing recognition of Saudi Arabia’s own diversity. It extends not only to the emergence of new fields and sectors, but also to the stunning geographic and cultural diversity of this country. From the bustling metropolis of Riyadh to the ancient Al-Balad in Jeddah and the historic sites and wonders of Al-Ahsa and Al-Qara Mountain, I have been impressed by the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage. I have visited the west coast, from Tabuk and AlUla to Abha and Taif, and back to Madinah. The natural beauty of the Kingdom is breathtaking. The transformation of this country into a global tourism hub that prizes its cultural heritage and takes seriously its commitment to preservation is opening up even more pathways to American-Saudi partnerships.
Saudi Arabia is blessed with abundant natural resources and geographical treasures, but in my time here I have found its greatest asset by far is its people. Every day, I am inspired by the remarkable individuals I meet across various fields, from filmmaking and video game development to space research and renewable energy. Their dynamism, particularly among women and the youth, will propel Saudi Arabia toward a promising and prosperous future.
Today, the US-Saudi relationship is stronger than ever, bolstered by interactions at all levels between our two countries, from government officials to everyday citizens. This strength is palpable in our wide-ranging cooperation — whether in security, commerce, culture or our joint efforts to resolve regional conflicts in places such as Sudan, Yemen and beyond. I look forward to seeing our strategic relationship, based on mutual respect and shared interests, continue to expand in the coming years. Happy National Day.

• Michael A. Ratney is the ambassador of the US to Saudi Arabia.