On this day in 1997, the world lost Princess Diana, but before her life was tragically cut short, her warmth, compassion and unmistakable energy had reached the Middle East on multiple occasions. From official royal tours across the Gulf to a solo visit to Egypt, Diana spent time meeting regional leaders, visiting schools and cultural landmarks, experiencing local traditions and connecting with people along the way. Nearly three decades later, her visits remain memorable chapters in her relationship with the Arab world.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Diana first travelled to Saudi Arabia in November 1986 alongside Prince Charles as part of their official six-day Gulf tour. The visit was designed to strengthen Britain’s relationships with the Gulf, while Diana’s presence brought an unmistakable public and cultural dimension to the trip. In Riyadh, the couple were hosted by King Fahd and attended a formal state dinner, while Diana also visited an equestrian club and a Bedouin camp in Al Thumamah. She made a point of respecting local customs through her more modest wardrobe, including a black-and-white evening gown for the royal banquet.
Qatar
Qatar was another stop on Diana and Charles’ 1986 Gulf tour, where they were welcomed by then-Emir Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani. During their time in Doha, Diana visited the Doha English Speaking School, while the royal couple also experienced one of the region’s traditional pastimes by watching a camel race in the desert. The visit formed part of the wider diplomatic tour aimed at strengthening Britain’s relationships across the Gulf.
Bahrain
Bahrain was among the Gulf countries Diana visited during her 1986 royal tour with Prince Charles. The couple were welcomed by the country’s then-ruler, Sheikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, and attended official receptions and state dinners hosted by the Royal Court. They also visited Al-Fatih Mosque, then known as the Al Fateh Islamic Center, giving Diana an opportunity to experience one of Bahrain’s important religious and cultural landmarks.
Oman
In November 1986, Princess Diana and Prince Charles began their first official Middle East tour in Oman, where they were welcomed by Sultan Qaboos bin Said. During their visit, Diana met Omani women at the Omani Women’s Association and visited Sultan Qaboos University, where she spent time speaking with young female students. She also travelled to the Jebel Akhdar mountains, stopping at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Saiq Plateau: a spot that has since become known as “Diana’s Point.”
Kuwait
Diana returned to the Gulf in March 1989, when she and Prince Charles visited Kuwait as part of another royal tour of the region. The six-day trip was intended in part to boost British trade and strengthen commercial and diplomatic ties with the Gulf. In Kuwait, Diana met Emir Jaber III at Bayan Palace, attended official dinners and visited the Kuwait Museum of Islamic Art.
UAE
Diana’s 1989 visit to the UAE remains one of her most memorable Middle Eastern appearances. Arriving with Prince Charles on March 14, the couple visited Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Dubai as part of their Gulf tour, with the trip focused on strengthening British-UAE relations and trade. They met Sheikh Zayed, the UAE’s Founding Father, at his private majlis in Al Ain, watched a camel race and enjoyed a picnic at Ghabat Raqnah Oasis. In Dubai, Diana attended a reception at the British Consulate and met Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, then Minister of Defence.
Egypt
In May 1992, Diana made a solo official visit to Egypt, spending several days exploring the country and meeting then-President Hosni Mubarak. Her itinerary included some of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple in Luxor, as well as a visit to Al-Azhar Mosque. She also visited the British Council in Cairo, where she met children taking part in its programmes.
From Egypt’s ancient monuments to the Gulf’s royal palaces, schools and desert landscapes, Diana’s visits to the Arab world offered glimpses of a princess who seemed equally at ease at a formal state dinner and while meeting children or experiencing local traditions. Her visits may have been part of official royal diplomacy, but the warmth she brought with her often became the lasting memory. Almost 30 years after her death, those moments continue to be remembered across the region.
We Said This: Don’t Miss… Candid Shots Featuring Royals Alongside Tutankhamun