Wafa Al-Marzouki Becomes Saudi Arabia's First Female Consul General

Wafa bint Abdullah Al-Marzouqi has become the first Saudi woman to be appointed Consul-General, making a historic leap for women's leadership in the Kingdom's diplomatic ranks. She has been appointed Consul General of Saudi Arabia in Houston, United States, taking on a senior role in the country’s international representation.

The appointment is an important milestone for women in diplomacy, women leadership and female representation in international affairs, in the context of Saudi Arabia's recent advancement of women to senior leadership positions in public service and professional life.

Wafa officially assumed the position after taking the oath of office before Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. The appointment is a testament to the growing involvement of Saudi women in diplomacy, public service and senior leadership.

Key Highlights

• Wafa Al-Marzouqi becomes Saudi Arabia’s first female consul general.
• She will represent Saudi Arabia as Consul General in Houston.
• Her appointment highlights women’s advancement within Saudi diplomatic service.

At the official oath ceremony, Wafa took an oath of allegiance to her religion, King and country. She also agreed to keep state secrets, defend the interests of the Kingdom and observe its principles while performing her duties in a virtuous and hardworking manner.

Her new responsibilities in Houston will include overseeing consular affairs and providing services and support to Saudi citizens in the United States. The position also places her within an important diplomatic environment involving engagement with local authorities and the wider Saudi community.

Wafa’s appointment comes on the heels of an increasing number of Saudi women leaders taking center stage in international affairs. As women around the Kingdom become more active in government, business, science, technology and other professions, her elevation is timely.

The position of the appointment is especially relevant to the diplomatic arena, where senior roles are dedicated to the representation of national interests and the maintenance of ties with other communities and institutions, overseas. The role of Wafa thus puts female diplomats and international relations professionals on the map.

Her appointment follows another important development in her diplomatic career. In 2025, the Saudi Council of Ministers approved Wafa’s promotion to the rank of Minister Plenipotentiary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The progression demonstrates her advancement through the Kingdom’s foreign service and places her latest appointment within a broader professional journey. Moving from the rank of Minister Plenipotentiary to a Consul General position further establishes her as a senior figure within Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic establishment.

Her achievement provides an important example of women’s empowerment and career advancement, particularly for professionals interested in diplomacy, government service and international affairs. It also adds a new chapter to the growing participation of Saudi women in positions of national responsibility.