During his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Prince William took the opportunity to engage with young female footballers in Riyadh, showcasing his support for women’s participation in sports within the region. His trip, which aims to strengthen UK-Saudi relations, comes at a time of significant societal change in the Gulf state.
Engaging with Young Athletes
On Tuesday, Prince William participated in a training session with a local youth football team at Misk Sports City. His involvement highlighted the progress made in female sports in Saudi Arabia, a nation where girls were only allowed to engage in physical education as recently as 2017. The prince’s visit aligns with his role as patron of the English Football Association, underscoring his commitment to promoting sports among young women.
The prince’s trip began on Monday when he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. As part of their discussions, Prince William presented the crown prince with an England football shirt worn by national team captain Harry Kane. Their conversation reportedly covered a wide range of topics related to the UK-Saudi partnership, indicating a desire to foster a collaborative relationship moving forward.
Addressing Diplomatic Sensitivities
While the trip is largely focused on energy transition and youth development, it is not without its challenges. Saudi Arabia’s human rights record raises significant concerns, particularly regarding women’s rights and freedom of expression. The country has faced scrutiny for its treatment of dissenters and the criminalisation of same-sex relationships, making the diplomatic dialogue particularly sensitive.
Prince William has been briefed on these issues, including the notorious murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which has marred the international community’s perception of the crown prince. Despite these challenges, the royal family views this visit as an essential opportunity to engage with a rapidly evolving society.
A New Era for Women in Sport
The visit coincides with a pivotal moment for women in Saudi Arabia. Until 2018, women were barred from attending sports events in stadiums, but significant strides have been made since then. During his time at the training session, Prince William spoke with local residents about the importance of women’s empowerment in sports. Reem Alrowaili, a mother who met the prince, expressed her pride in the progress her daughter will experience, stating, “I lived the old days where we were not allowed to do anything, and now I’m really happy for my daughter because she will experience the good life, the better life.”
In addition to football, Prince William also attended an E-Sports tournament and toured the impressive Sports Boulevard, an urban regeneration project aimed at becoming the world’s largest linear park. This initiative reflects the country’s efforts to promote a healthier lifestyle while diversifying its economy away from oil dependence.
Navigating Royal Responsibilities
Amidst these engagements, the royal family faces scrutiny due to ongoing allegations surrounding Prince Andrew and his connections to Jeffrey Epstein. When questioned about this issue during his visit, Prince William did not respond, highlighting the delicate balance he must maintain between his royal duties and family dynamics. The prince and Catherine, Princess of Wales, have publicly stated their concern regarding the latest revelations and expressed their focus on the victims involved.
As Prince William continues his engagements, he embodies a bridge between traditional royal responsibilities and a modern approach to international relations, particularly in regions undergoing significant transformation.
Why it Matters
Prince William’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents more than just a diplomatic mission; it reflects a broader commitment to promoting positive change in a society in flux. By prioritising conversations surrounding women’s empowerment and youth involvement in sports, the prince is contributing to a narrative that champions progress in the face of historical challenges. This engagement not only enhances bilateral relations but also serves as a powerful message advocating for the rights and empowerment of women in the region, paving the way for future generations.
