Before it was officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the state was called the Kingdom of Hejaz and Nejd and its Dependencies.
This name reflects the historical unification of two primary regions: Hejaz, which includes the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, and Nejd, the central region of the Arabian Peninsula. The state was established through the conquests and consolidation led by Abdulaziz ibn Saud, who is recognized as the founder of modern Saudi Arabia.
Historical Context of the Name Change
The evolution of the state's name signifies key milestones in its formation and international recognition:
- Establishment: Following various conquests, Abdulaziz ibn Saud consolidated control over the regions, culminating in the establishment of the Kingdom of Hejaz and Nejd and its Dependencies.
- International Recognition: The United States, for instance, formally recognized the Kingdom of Hejaz and Nejd and its Dependencies on May 1, 1931. This recognition was conveyed by the U.S. Minister at London, Charles G. Dawes, to the Hejazi Minister at London.
- Renaming to Saudi Arabia: The name was officially changed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by a royal decree issued on September 18, 1932. This change was a significant step, emphasizing the ruling Al Saud family's pivotal role in the country's formation and identity.
Timeline of Key Names
To illustrate the naming progression, here's a simple timeline:
| Period | Official Name | Key Events / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Before 1926 | Various independent entities | Regions like Hejaz, Nejd, Al-Ahsa, Qatif, and Asir existed as separate entities. |
| 1926 – September 17, 1932 | Kingdom of Hejaz and Nejd and its Dependencies | Unified state under Abdulaziz ibn Saud. Recognized by international powers, including the U.S. in 1931. |
| September 18, 1932 – Present | Kingdom of Saudi Arabia | The current official name, formally associating the state with the Al Saud ruling family. |
This progression highlights the consolidation of power and territory that led to the modern Saudi state. The renaming to "Kingdom of Saudi Arabia" was not merely a cosmetic change but a declaration of a unified national identity under the House of Saud.
For more information on the diplomatic history of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, you can refer to resources from the U.S. Department of State, Office of the Historian here.
