The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans to significantly expand its diplomatic footprint across the African continent, with a target to establish more than 40 embassies in African countries in the coming years. This revelation was made by the Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Walid Al-Khereiji, during a recent high-level engagement, signalling Riyadh’s growing interest in strengthening political, economic, and cultural ties with Africa.
According to Al-Khereiji, the move forms part of a broader strategic vision by the Saudi government to deepen its bilateral relations with African nations and foster mutual cooperation in key sectors such as energy, trade, agriculture, infrastructure, and investment. He emphasized that the expansion of diplomatic missions would not only enhance diplomatic dialogue but also boost Saudi Arabia’s presence in regional affairs and development initiatives across the continent.
KIIN360 gathered that Saudi Arabia currently maintains around 27 embassies in Africa, and the plan to increase this figure to over 40 reflects the kingdom’s renewed foreign policy focus on emerging economies and strategic partnerships. This initiative also aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030—a comprehensive national development blueprint aimed at diversifying the kingdom’s economy beyond oil and expanding its global influence.
Al-Khereiji noted that Africa, with its vast natural resources, youthful population, and growing markets, offers enormous potential for Saudi investors and institutions seeking long-term collaboration. He further highlighted the kingdom’s commitment to supporting regional peace, stability, and economic development through increased diplomatic engagement and multilateral cooperation.
The announcement comes amid a wave of renewed interest in Africa by global powers, with nations such as China, the United States, Russia, and Turkey also scaling up their diplomatic and economic outreach to the continent. Saudi Arabia’s ambition to open more embassies signals its intention to compete actively for influence, investment opportunities, and strategic alliances across Africa.
Diplomatic analysts believe the move could also pave the way for increased religious and cultural exchange, given Saudi Arabia’s historical leadership role in the Islamic world. Additionally, stronger diplomatic networks may ease travel, improve consular services, and facilitate smoother bilateral negotiations between Riyadh and African capitals.
