List of ambassadors of the United States to Saudi Arabia facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Ambassador of the United States to Saudi Arabia سفير الولايات المتحدة لدى المملكة العربية السعودية
Seal of the United States Department of State
Incumbent Michael Ratney since April 27, 2023
Residence	Quincy House
Nominator	The President of the United States
Appointer	The President with Senate advice and consent
Inaugural holder	Bert Fish as Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary
Formation	Aug 7, 1939
Website	U.S. Embassy – Riyadh

The United States ambassador to Saudi Arabia is a very important person. They are the main representative of the President of the United States in Saudi Arabia. Their job is to help the two countries work together. This includes talking about important issues and building strong friendships.

The United States officially recognized the government of King Ibn Saud in 1931. However, the first U.S. ambassador to Saudi Arabia was not appointed until 1939. This first ambassador was Bert Fish. He was also the ambassador to Egypt at the time.

What is an Ambassador?

An ambassador is a top diplomat. They are the official representative of their country's leader. Their main job is to keep good relations between two countries. They work from an embassy, which is like their country's office in a foreign land.

The Ambassador's Role

The ambassador helps solve problems and build cooperation. They work on things like trade, safety, and cultural exchange. They also protect their country's citizens who are living or traveling abroad. The ambassador holds a special title: Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. This means they have full power to represent their country.

History of U.S. Ambassadors to Saudi Arabia

The relationship between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia began many years ago. The first U.S. ambassador, Bert Fish, visited Saudi Arabia in 1940. He went to Jeddah to meet King Ibn Saud. A special U.S. office, called a legation, was set up in Jeddah in 1942.

Key Moments in Diplomatic Ties

Over the years, many ambassadors have served in Saudi Arabia. Each one has played a part in shaping the relationship. For example, in 1984, the main U.S. office moved. The U.S. Liaison Office in Riyadh became the main embassy. The embassy in Jeddah then became a consulate. A consulate helps citizens with things like passports and visas.

Current Ambassador

Today, the U.S. ambassador to Saudi Arabia is Michael Ratney. He started his role on April 27, 2023. He is a career Foreign Service Officer (FSO). This means he has worked as a diplomat for a long time.

Images for kids

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  Seal of the United States Department of State

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  Michael Ratney, the current U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia.