# Khalid of Saudi Arabia

> King of Saudi Arabia (1911-1982)

**Wikidata**: [Q208301](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q208301)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khalid_of_Saudi_Arabia)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/khalid-of-saudi-arabia

## Summary
Khalid of Saudi Arabia was the King of Saudi Arabia from 1975 to 1982, serving as the fifth son of Ibn Saud and a key figure in the modern unification and governance of the kingdom. His reign marked a period of significant political and economic development under Saudi Arabia's absolute monarchy and Islamic theocracy.

## Biography
- Born: 13 February 1911
- Nationality: Saudi Arabia
- Education: [Not specified in source material]
- Known for: Leading Saudi Arabia during a period of rapid modernization and international engagement
- Employer(s): King of Saudi Arabia (1975–1982)
- Field(s): Political leadership, governance, international relations

## Contributions
Khalid of Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in the consolidation of modern Saudi Arabia, overseeing key political and economic reforms during his reign. He succeeded his brother, King Faisal, and continued the modernization efforts initiated under his predecessor, including the development of infrastructure, the expansion of diplomatic relations, and the implementation of economic policies aimed at reducing reliance on oil. His leadership also saw the kingdom's active participation in international organizations, reinforcing its global standing.

## FAQs
**What was Khalid of Saudi Arabia's role in Saudi Arabia?**
Khalid of Saudi Arabia served as the King of Saudi Arabia from 1975 to 1982, overseeing the country's political and economic development during a critical period of modernization and international engagement.

**How did Khalid of Saudi Arabia contribute to Saudi Arabia's governance?**
During his reign, Khalid of Saudi Arabia focused on consolidating the kingdom's political and economic stability, implementing reforms to diversify the economy, and strengthening Saudi Arabia's international relations.

**What international organizations was Saudi Arabia involved in under Khalid's reign?**
Under Khalid's leadership, Saudi Arabia remained an active member of key international organizations, including the United Nations, the League of Arab States, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), reinforcing its global influence.

## Why They Matter
Khalid of Saudi Arabia's leadership during his reign was instrumental in shaping the trajectory of modern Saudi Arabia. His efforts to modernize the country, reduce oil dependence, and strengthen international relations laid the foundation for the kingdom's future as a global player. His reign also saw significant socio-economic reforms, including the expansion of infrastructure and the promotion of economic diversification, which continue to influence Saudi Arabia's development today.

## Notable For
- Served as the King of Saudi Arabia from 1975 to 1982, succeeding King Faisal and preceding King Fahd
- Oversaw the consolidation of Saudi Arabia's political and economic stability during a period of rapid modernization
- Strengthened Saudi Arabia's international relations and participation in key global organizations
- Implemented economic reforms aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing reliance on oil
- Played a crucial role in the kingdom's development as a global player in the 20th century

## Body
### Early Life and Rise to Power
Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was born on 13 February 1911 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He was the fifth son of Ibn Saud, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia, and a key figure in the unification of the kingdom. Khalid's early life was marked by his education and training in governance, preparing him for his future role as a leader in the Saudi royal family.

### Reign and Leadership
Khalid of Saudi Arabia ascended to the throne on 25 March 1975, succeeding his brother, King Faisal. His reign was characterized by a focus on political and economic modernization, including the implementation of reforms aimed at reducing the kingdom's reliance on oil and strengthening its international standing. Khalid's leadership also saw the expansion of infrastructure, the promotion of economic diversification, and the active participation of Saudi Arabia in key international organizations.

### Political and Economic Reforms
During Khalid's reign, Saudi Arabia underwent significant political and economic reforms. The kingdom's leadership focused on modernizing governance, reducing oil dependence, and strengthening international relations. Key reforms included the expansion of infrastructure, the promotion of economic diversification, and the active participation of Saudi Arabia in key international organizations.

### International Relations and Engagement
Khalid of Saudi Arabia played a crucial role in strengthening Saudi Arabia's international relations and engagement with the global community. His reign saw the kingdom's active participation in key international organizations, including the United Nations, the League of Arab States, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Saudi Arabia also expanded its diplomatic relations, reinforcing its global standing and influence.

### Legacy and Influence
Khalid of Saudi Arabia's legacy as the King of Saudi Arabia from 1975 to 1982 is marked by his contributions to the kingdom's political, economic, and international development. His leadership during this period laid the foundation for Saudi Arabia's future as a global player, influencing the country's trajectory in the 21st century. Khalid's efforts to modernize the kingdom, reduce oil dependence, and strengthen international relations continue to shape Saudi Arabia's development today.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. general catalog of BnF
3. Find a Grave
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. Virtual International Authority File