Alfaisal University honors founders for advancing academic excellence

Alfaisal University in Riyadh held a special ceremony to honor its founders, under the patronage of Prince Turki bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, Chairman of the Board of King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies and Vice Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees, in recognition of their contributions to the university’s establishment.

The event saw Prince Bandar bin Saud bin Khalid and Princess Maha bint Mishari bin Abdulaziz, CEO of the Future Investment Initiative Foundation, honored for their significant roles in founding the university and advancing its academic and institutional development.

Prince Turki bin Faisal highlighted that the King Faisal Foundation and its projects—including the King Faisal Prize and the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies—continue to fulfill their mission both within Saudi Arabia and abroad. He emphasized that the value of work is reflected in the honorees’ contributions, and expressed hope for further initiatives that benefit the university and the nation under the country’s leadership.

University President Dr. Mohammed bin Ali Al-Hayaza noted that the honorees helped transform the founders’ vision into a world-class, non-profit university in the heart of Riyadh. He praised Prince Bandar bin Saud’s ongoing involvement throughout the university’s development, highlighting his 25 years of service through the King Faisal Foundation, the Board of Trustees, and as head of the executive committee.

Distinguished contributions to founding and development

Dr. Al-Hayaza also commended Princess Maha bint Mishari’s efforts during her more than ten years as Vice President for External Relations and Development, where she expanded partnerships, supported female student enrollment, enhanced the learning environment, and oversaw numerous conferences and key initiatives.

Prince Bandar bin Saud acknowledged the efforts of successive administrations and university staff in strengthening the institution, noting that the founding phase included visits to leading global universities, signing an agreement with Harvard University, and forming a joint committee with experts from the University of Cambridge and MIT to develop curricula and academic systems.

Princess Maha bint Mishari expressed appreciation for the leadership’s support of education and research, affirming that investing in people carries a global message. She reviewed the university’s expansion in academic departments and programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees, the strengthening of research partnerships, and the pursuit of international accreditation standards. She also noted that the university attracts students from 53 nationalities, with international and resident students making up about 35% of the total student body.