Prince Bandar bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was a Saudi royal and businessman, known for his decision to stay away from politics despite being the 11th son of King Abdulaziz, the founder of Saudi Arabia.
He was the elder half-brother of King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the seventh King of Saudi Arabia.
Born in 1923 in Riyadh, his mother was Princess Bazza Al-Thunayyan, who also had two other children: Princess Munira and Prince Fawaz.
Career and Business Ventures
Although Prince Bandar was among King Abdulaziz’s elder sons, he never assumed any official governmental role, except for serving as the Director General of the Ministry of Interior.
Unlike many of his royal siblings who held key positions in the government, Prince Bandar chose a different path by focusing on entrepreneurship and private investments.
He was represented in the Saudi Allegiance Council by his son, Prince Faisal bin Bandar, who later became the Governor of Riyadh.
Achievements and Investments
Prince Bandar deliberately stayed away from political affairs, despite witnessing the unification of the Kingdom under his father, King Abdulaziz.
Instead, he focused on building a business empire, making major investments in companies such as:
- Tabuk Cement Company
- Riyadh Hotels & Entertainment Company
- Various undisclosed business ventures
Although less publicly known than his relative, Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who is a globally recognized billionaire, Prince Bandar remained a highly respected figure in royal circles.
He was known for his wisdom and influence, often consulted by King Salman and other key figures in the royal family.
Personal Life and Family
Prince Bandar built a large family, marrying three times and fathering 23 children, with over 100 grandchildren.
His first wife, Princess Wasmiyah bint Abdulrahman Al-Muammar Al-Tamimi, gave birth to:
- Prince Faisal, Governor of Riyadh and his representative in the Allegiance Council.
- Prince Khalid, Advisor to King Salman.
His second wife, Princess Munira bint Mohammed Al-Majbour Al-Subai’i, gave birth to:
- Prince Fahd
- Prince Sultan
His third wife, Princess Al-Anoud bint Muhanna, gave birth to:
- Prince Abdulrahman
Other notable children include:
- Prince Abdullah bin Bandar, former Governor of Mecca and later appointed Minister of the National Guard.
- Prince Turki bin Bandar, Commander of the Royal Saudi Air Force.
Death and Legacy
On July 28, 2019, the Saudi Royal Court announced the passing of Prince Bandar bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the age of 96.
His funeral took place at Al-Adl Cemetery in Mecca, attended by King Salman and many prominent figures from Saudi Arabia and abroad.
Net Worth
His estimated fortune was reported to be 816 million Saudi Riyals, though this figure remains unverified.
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