Wafa bint Abdullah Al-Marzouqi has become the first Saudi woman to be appointed as a consul general, marking a notable development in the growing representation of Saudi women in the country’s diplomatic service.
Al-Marzouqi was appointed Consul General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Houston, United States, and took the official oath of office before Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.
Her appointment adds a new milestone to the expanding presence of Saudi women in senior diplomatic positions and reflects the increasing role of female Saudi professionals in representing the Kingdom abroad.
Wafa Al-Marzouqi Takes the Oath of Office
Following her appointment, Al-Marzouqi took the official oath, pledging loyalty to her religion, King and country, while committing to safeguarding state secrets, protecting the Kingdom’s interests and regulations, and carrying out her responsibilities with honesty, integrity and dedication.
The appointment comes after Al-Marzouqi’s advancement within Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic service. Earlier in 2025, the Saudi Council of Ministers approved her promotion to the rank of Minister Plenipotentiary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
A Milestone for Saudi Women in Diplomacy
Al-Marzouqi’s appointment as consul general represents a significant step in the advancement of Saudi women within the diplomatic sector.
Women’s participation in diplomacy has expanded in recent years, with Saudi female professionals taking on increasingly prominent responsibilities in government institutions and international representation.
Her new position in Houston places a Saudi woman at the forefront of consular representation in a major U.S. city, where the role includes serving Saudi citizens, supporting bilateral relations and representing the Kingdom’s interests within the consular sphere.
From Professional Advancement to Diplomatic Leadership
Al-Marzouqi’s career progression also highlights the importance of professional development and advancement within Saudi Arabia’s foreign service.
Her promotion to Minister Plenipotentiary preceded her appointment as consul general, providing an additional indication of her progression through the diplomatic ranks.
Her appointment is therefore significant not only as a first for Saudi women, but also as part of a broader transformation in the representation of women in senior public-sector and diplomatic positions.
A New Chapter for Saudi Women Abroad
The appointment of Wafa Al-Marzouqi comes at a time when Saudi women are assuming greater responsibilities across diplomacy, public administration, business, science and other fields.
Her role in Houston places her among Saudi women whose professional expertise is contributing directly to the Kingdom’s international presence.
For Saudi women pursuing careers in diplomacy and international affairs, her appointment represents a visible example of women reaching senior levels of responsibility and taking on roles that carry national and international significance.
