Prince William continued his landmark three-day visit to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, with a packed schedule that showcased the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 reforms in action. The Prince of Wales, on his first official trip to the country as heir to the throne, focused on youth empowerment, sustainable development, and the rapid evolution of sports culture—particularly women’s participation—while reinforcing the strong and growing UK-Saudi partnership.
The day began at the Sports Boulevard in Riyadh, one of the most visible symbols of the Kingdom’s push toward a more livable, green, and pedestrian-friendly future. This flagship urban regeneration project transforms a 135-kilometer stretch of former highway into a vibrant public space featuring parks, walking trails, cycling paths, sports facilities, and cultural venues. William arrived early, greeted by families enjoying the new green spaces, children playing on interactive installations, and joggers taking advantage of the shaded walkways. He walked portions of the boulevard, spoke with local residents about how the project has changed daily life, and heard directly from urban planners about the environmental goals: reducing car dependency, improving air quality, increasing green cover, and creating inclusive community spaces.
The Prince expressed genuine admiration for the scale and ambition. He asked detailed questions about water conservation techniques, solar-powered lighting, and how the boulevard integrates with Riyadh’s broader master plan to become one of the world’s most sustainable cities. The visit underscored a shared UK-Saudi interest in combating climate change and building resilient urban environments—priorities both nations have elevated in recent bilateral talks.
From the boulevard, William traveled to King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia’s premier research institution, located on the Red Sea coast but represented by a delegation in Riyadh for the occasion. There, he sat down with leading experts to discuss the global energy transition. KAUST researchers presented cutting-edge work on renewable energy, carbon capture, hydrogen production, and sustainable desalination—fields where Saudi Arabia is investing heavily as part of its goal to become a global leader in clean energy technologies. William engaged deeply, drawing on his longstanding interest in environmental sustainability and climate action through The Earthshot Prize. The conversation reportedly touched on potential UK-Saudi collaborations in green innovation, technology transfer, and joint research initiatives—practical steps toward a net-zero future.
The highlight of the day, however, came at MISK Sports City, a state-of-the-art complex built to nurture athletic talent across disciplines. William was welcomed by Lamia Bahaian, Vice President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and one of the highest-ranking women in Saudi sport. Bahaian briefed him on the explosive growth of women’s football in the Kingdom: from near-zero participation a decade ago to thousands of registered players, professional leagues, and international competitions. She shared stories of overcoming cultural and logistical barriers, and the transformative impact of sport on young women’s confidence, education, and career opportunities.
William then stepped onto the pitch at the Riyadh Regional Training Centre to meet and train with a group of talented young female players. Dressed casually, he joined warm-ups, took part in passing drills, and even tried a few shots at goal—drawing cheers and laughter from the athletes. The session was light-hearted yet meaningful: William praised their skill and determination, listened to their ambitions (several aspire to play professionally or represent Saudi Arabia internationally), and spoke about the unifying power of sport. Photos of the Prince high-fiving players, celebrating goals, and encouraging a young goalkeeper went viral almost instantly, symbolizing a new era of openness and inclusion.
The visit to MISK Sports City carried extra significance. Saudi Arabia’s rapid investment in women’s sports—driven by Vision 2030 and leadership from figures like Princess Reema bint Bandar—has been one of the most visible social reforms of recent years. William’s presence, as a passionate advocate for youth and sport through his work with the FA and Heads Together mental health initiative, amplified the message: sport can be a powerful tool for empowerment, equality, and cross-cultural understanding.
Throughout the day, William emphasized connection and shared purpose. He spoke of the importance of young people in shaping the future, praised Saudi Arabia’s bold reforms, and highlighted opportunities for UK-Saudi collaboration in sustainability, innovation, and sport. His warm, approachable style—asking thoughtful questions, listening attentively, and engaging with families and athletes—won praise from hosts and observers alike.
The visit continues on Wednesday with engagements in the historic city of AlUla, focusing on heritage preservation, tourism, and cultural exchange. But Tuesday’s activities have already left a strong impression: a future king actively engaging with a nation undergoing profound change, building bridges through shared values of progress, sustainability, and opportunity for the next generation.
As the centenary of UK-Saudi diplomatic relations approaches, Prince William’s visit is both a celebration of the past and a clear signal of commitment to the future. From urban green spaces to the football pitch, the Prince of Wales has shown that diplomacy can be personal, purposeful, and forward-looking. The Kingdom—and the world—is watching.
