On April 29, 2015, H.E. Adel Al-Jubeir was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs by King Salman, becoming only the second non-royal to hold the post. His selection marked a shift toward modern diplomatic engagement and set the tone for a more proactive Saudi foreign policy in line with emerging national transformations.
Modernising Saudi Diplomacy: A Strategic Vision
H.E. Al-Jubeir entered office with a clear mandate: ensure that Saudi foreign policy is proactive, transparent, and globally connected. His approach emphasised:
- Clarity in explaining Saudi positions to international audiences
- Engagement through presence at global forums and bilateral talks
- Alignment with Vision 2030 on economic and cultural fronts
- Professionalisation of the Saudi foreign service
Key Achievements and Diplomatic Milestones
Strengthening Saudi Arabia’s Global Presence
With his fluent English and media acumen, H.E. Al-Jubeir became one of the most visible Saudi faces internationally, offering interviews to global news networks. He delivered prominent speeches at the United Nations General Assembly, Munich Security Conference, GCC summits, and bilateral platforms, consistently presenting narratives of Saudi modernisation, cultural openness, and economic diversification.
Enhancing Economic Diplomacy
Following the launch of Vision 2030 in 2016, H.E. Al-Jubeir prioritised:
- Promoting international investment opportunities in tourism, entertainment, renewable energy, and technology.
- Building cultural diplomacy bridges to support people-to-people ties.
- Encouraging energy diplomacy to position Saudi Arabia as a forward-looking energy partner.
Expanding Strategic Partnerships
Under his leadership, Saudi Arabia:
- Reinforced ties with global partners across multiple continents.
- Expanded engagement with emerging markets in Asia and other regions.
- Deepened its role in multilateral forums such as the G20 and the United Nations.
Institutional Reforms in the Ministry
H.E. Al-Jubeir led modernisation efforts within the Foreign Ministry, including:
- Enhancing training programs for diplomats.
- Improving mission efficiency.
- Introducing digital diplomacy initiatives to engage global audiences directly.
Leadership Style: A Modern Diplomatic Statesman
H.E. Al-Jubeir’s leadership was marked by calm, articulate communication and an emphasis on modern diplomatic practice. His fluency in international dialogue, commitment to public engagement, and alignment with national objectives made him a model statesman. His leadership also inspired a new generation of Saudi diplomats prepared to serve in a rapidly changing world.
Notable Speeches and Moments
- United Nations General Assembly: Advocated for international cooperation and sustainable development.
- Munich Security Conference: Shared Saudi Arabia’s vision for constructive global partnerships.
- Media Engagement: Explained Vision 2030 reforms and economic openness to international audiences.
Legacy and Ongoing Influence
H.E. Al-Jubeir’s ministerial tenure achieved:
- A modernisation of the Saudi diplomatic approach.
- Integration of foreign policy with Vision 2030.
- A strengthened Saudi voice in global dialogues.
Since December 2018, as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and later as Envoy for Climate Affairs, H.E. Al-Jubeir continues to represent a globally engaged, forward-looking Kingdom.
H.E. Adel Al-Jubeir’s service as Foreign Minister marked a transformative period in Saudi diplomacy. By elevating global engagement, fostering strategic partnerships, and aligning foreign policy with Vision 2030, he laid the foundation for the Kingdom’s diplomatic future. His leadership provides a model of effective, values-based diplomacy that bridges tradition with modernity and continues to inspire Saudi leaders today.
