Turki bin Abdullah Al Saud

Prince Turki bin Abdullah Al Saud, seventh son of the late Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, is recognized for his varied career—military officer, government official, and businessman. Serving as a fighter jet pilot, he earned respect within the Saudi military, achieving the rank of Colonel and commanding fighter squadrons, notably the F-15 aircraft.

He notably received Italy’s prestigious Medal of Merit and completed advanced military coursework in strategic studies. Prince Turki also briefly held significant leadership roles, including as Deputy Governor and later Governor of Riyadh Province.

In 2018, Turki bin Abdullah was detained amid an anti-corruption crackdown targeting prominent Saudi figures. He was accused of financial and administrative irregularities relating to the Riyadh Metro Project, which he oversaw. Observers, however, speculated that his detention was partly due to his refusal to repatriate substantial overseas assets.

Prince Turki was an accomplished fighter pilot, leading the Saudi Air Force’s squadron during joint exercises with US military forces.

At Arageek, we believe it is essential to provide readers with context, allowing them to form balanced opinions about influential figures like Prince Turki bin Abdullah. Whether viewed through his extensive military and humanitarian contributions or through the controversies marking his later years, the Prince undeniably represents a significant chapter in recent Saudi history.

Born on October 21, 1972, in Riyadh, Prince Turki bin Abdullah was brought up in a distinguished royal family. His mother, Princess Tadi bint Mashan Al Jarba, and his siblings—including princes Mishaal, Mohammed, Majed, Mashhood, and princesses Oraib and Hanouf—formed a close-knit family circle.

He attended the Williams Air Force Base in the United States, later enhancing his qualifications with a Master’s in Military Sciences, as well as a degree in Strategic Studies with honors from the University of Wales.

Prince Turki bin Abdullah was previously married to Princess Hala bint Khaled bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

– Former commander of the renowned 95th Fighter Squadron in the Saudi Air Force.

– Oversaw critical development of air force training and sports centers.

– Awarded honorary professorship from the Center for Arabic Studies, Beijing, in 2015.

– Played a leading role in joint Saudi-U.S. military exercises in 2010.

– Received Italy’s prestigious Medal of Merit.

– Commanding officer of the 95th Fighter Squadron (F-15), Saudi Air Force.

– Appointed Deputy Emir of Riyadh at ministerial rank (February 2013).

– Promoted to Emir (Governor) of Riyadh Province (2014-2015).

– Actively supported educational, charitable, and athletic initiatives within the Saudi military.

Prince Turki held elevated roles in Saudi Arabia’s government structures, ascending rapidly from key military positions to political responsibilities. His leadership tenure as Emir of Riyadh Province from May 2014 to January 2015 ended with a royal decree relieving him of responsibilities following King Salman bin Abdulaziz’s ascension to the throne.

In November 2015, he received honorary recognition and an academic title in China, underscoring his international reputation.

However, his detention and allegations of misconduct cast a shadow over his legacy, showcasing the complexity and shifting roles within the Saudi royal hierarchy.

Throughout the detention period in Riyadh’s Ritz-Carlton Hotel, unconfirmed reports suggested Prince Turki faced harsh treatment, fueling international concerns. Unverified accounts, including claims of an attempted suicide, attracted media attention but were never officially confirmed by Saudi authorities.

Prince Turki’s controversial downfall illustrates broader changes occurring within Saudi Arabia’s leadership and approach to governance, highlighting complexities regarding transparency, governance effectiveness, and the consolidation of power within the kingdom.