In a historic milestone for Saudi women in diplomacy, Wafaa bint Abdullah bin Abdulkarim Al-Marzouqi has become the first Saudi woman to serve as a Consul General, following her appointment as Consul General of the Kingdom in Houston, Texas.
Al-Marzouqi took the official oath before Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, pledging loyalty to her faith and country, safeguarding the Kingdom’s interests and laws, and carrying out her duties with honesty, integrity and dedication.
A Diplomatic Career Reaching a Historic Milestone
Al-Marzouqi’s appointment marks a new stage in her diplomatic career. In May 2025, the Council of Ministers approved her promotion to the position of Minister Plenipotentiary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside a number of other Saudi diplomats.
Her promotion reflected her advancement within Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic service and preceded her appointment as Consul General in Houston, making her the first Saudi woman to hold the position.
Expanding the Role of Saudi Women in Diplomacy
Al-Marzouqi’s appointment represents another milestone in the growing participation of Saudi women in diplomacy and international representation.
The Kingdom appointed Princess Reema bint Bandar bin Sultan as Ambassador to the United States in 2019, making her the first Saudi woman to serve as an ambassador, while other Saudi women have continued to take on senior diplomatic and international roles.
Al-Marzouqi’s promotion to Minister Plenipotentiary in 2025 further highlighted the expanding opportunities for Saudi women within the diplomatic service.
Representing the Kingdom in Houston
As Consul General in Houston, Al-Marzouqi will oversee the Kingdom’s consular representation in the area, support bilateral relations and interests, and provide consular services and assistance to Saudi citizens in accordance with applicable regulations.
Her appointment marks a significant step in the advancement of Saudi women within the Kingdom’s diplomatic service and highlights the growing role of national female talent in representing Saudi Arabia abroad.
