Saudi Ambassador Princess Reema makes cultural statement in Honayda gown during Trump’s Riyadh visit

RIYADH, May 15 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the United States, Her Royal Highness Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, made a symbolic cultural statement during President Donald Trump’s official visit to Riyadh, wearing a custom royal blue gown by Saudi designer Honayda Saleh Serafi.

The ambassador’s appearance marked a moment of cultural pride and subtle diplomacy as President Trump began his Middle East tour—his first foreign trip during his second term.

Princess Reema wore a floor-length bespoke gown crafted by Serafi, founder and creative director of the fashion house Honayda. The dress featured traditional Arabic and Islamic embroidery, combining national heritage with contemporary design.

“Creating this bespoke piece for Her Royal Highness Princess Reema bint Bandar for this historic moment in Riyadh, as she welcomes President Trump, is a true honour for me,” Serafi told Vogue Arabia. “She represents the strength, progress, and boundless potential of Saudi women.”

The designer noted that the royal blue color was selected to symbolize “power and wisdom,” while the embroidery incorporated motifs reflecting Saudi Arabia’s artistic and cultural legacy.

Princess Reema, who became the Kingdom’s first female ambassador in 2019, is widely recognized for her efforts in advancing women’s empowerment and for using fashion as a means of soft diplomacy. Her public appearances often reflect a blend of cultural identity and progressive leadership.

The visual symbolism of her appearance during the high-level summit added a cultural dimension to President Trump’s visit, underlining the evolving role of Saudi women in diplomacy and public life.