Diriyah Gate Development Authority and King Saud University Partner to Document the Legacy of Princess Sarah bint Imam Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki

The Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), in collaboration with King Saud University, launched a publication documenting the remarkable life and legacy of Princess Sarah bint Imam Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud, daughter of the seventh ruler of the Saudi State. The publication highlights her significant contributions to philanthropy, scholarship, endowments, and community service. Its launch coincided with the International Day of Charity, celebrating her pioneering legacy of generosity and giving. 

Titled “Princess Sarah bint Imam Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al Saud (1301 AH–1884 / 1393 AH–1973): An Analytical Study of Her Biography and the Social Role of Saudi Women,” the publication traces the life of Princess Sarah, may Allah have mercy on her, from her birth in Riyadh in 1884. She was raised in an environment distinguished by benevolence, a deep appreciation for knowledge and scholars, and a strong tradition of charitable endowments, values that played a significant role in shaping her character and philanthropic endeavors. 

The book explores educational endowments and endows real estate assets within a broader historical context, highlighting the contributions of Saudi women to endowments since the establishment of the Saudi State. 

Philanthropy and community giving were defining aspects of Princess Sarah’s life. Among the most prominent examples was Al-Duraibiyah Farm, located south of Diriyah, which she endowed for public benefit. She also donated portions of her property to those in need and to individuals seeking land on which to establish a home, embodying the values of generosity and social solidarity. Part of the farm remains to this day as a testament to her generosity and enduring legacy. 

Princess Sarah, may Allah have mercy on her, also bestowed a collection of books and reference works for the benefit of students and researchers. Her collection encompassed works on Hadith, the Prophet’s biography, Islamic creed, language, and literature. 

Her contributions extended further to supporting knowledge and education. She endowed a parcel of land she owned to King Saud University for educational purposes, and the land subsequently became part of the University’s facilities, contributing to the expansion of its academic and educational capacity. In recognition of her generosity, a directive was issued to name the central library at the female students’ campus in her honor: the Princess Sarah bint Abdullah bin Faisal Al Saud Library, commemorating her contributions to knowledge and those who pursue it. 

The launch of the publication is the result of collaboration between the Diriyah Gate Development Authority and King Saud University. It forms part of DGDA’s efforts to document prominent historical figures associated with the Saudi State and enrich historical and scholarly content. With the support and participation of King Saud University, which has dedicated its resources to advancing academic research, the initiative also contributes to preserving Saudi history and passing it on to future generations.