Prince William has commenced a significant three-day diplomatic trip to Saudi Arabia, marking his first official visit to the Gulf state. The Prince of Wales, traveling without his wife, Princess Catherine, is undertaking this journey at the request of the UK Government. This visit is viewed as one of the most critical diplomatic tests for William, especially as the scandal surrounding his uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, continues to unfold back in the United Kingdom.
During his time in Saudi Arabia, which began on March 15, 2026, the Prince will engage with the next generation of young Saudis and explore the nation’s ambitious plans for the future, including its commitment to sustainability. He is also scheduled to visit the historic city of AlUla to learn about conservation efforts aimed at protecting the region’s unique wildlife and landscapes. This visit is particularly vital as it emphasizes the Royal Family’s “soft power” and aims to strengthen ties with a key ally in the Middle East.
William’s visit follows a period of controversy surrounding the regime of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whose leadership has been criticized for extensive human rights abuses, including the use of the death penalty and the targeting of individuals exercising their freedom of expression. International scrutiny intensified after a report from US intelligence indicated that the Crown Prince ordered the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
The UK has sought to strengthen relations with Saudi Arabia amidst these controversies. Recent visits by senior officials, including the Chancellor and the Foreign Secretary, have focused on economic cooperation, sometimes at the expense of addressing human rights concerns. Critics have noted that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faced backlash for prioritizing economic growth in discussions with the Crown Prince in 2024.
As Prince William engages in diplomatic discussions, the backdrop of his uncle’s ongoing scandal adds complexity to the Royal Family’s public image. The situation surrounding Andrew, who has faced renewed allegations related to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, has drawn further negative attention. Reports claim that a second woman was allegedly sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, with additional allegations suggesting inappropriate requests were made during Epstein’s visits to Florida.
Andrew, stripped of his royal titles by his brother, King Charles III, in 2022, has consistently denied all allegations of wrongdoing. The juxtaposition of William’s diplomatic mission with Andrew’s scandals highlights the challenges faced by the Royal Family in maintaining its reputation both at home and abroad.
The Prince of Wales’s visit will be closely monitored, as it represents a critical moment for the Royal Family to navigate public perceptions and bolster diplomatic relations with a powerful ally in the Middle East.
