Abstract
Saudi Arabia's princesses possess substantial political influence — even though none of them hold important formal positions. Whoever has the king's ear has the potential to have influence, and fewer are closer to a Saudi king than his mother, sister, wife, and daughter. The areas that the female members of the Al Saud actively seek to influence are related to women's education and job opportunities, and women's health and legal rights. Even more important is their role when it comes to keeping the ruling Al Saud family united and, hence, securing its grip on the power. The princesses perform three important roles in the cohesion of the royal family: they play a key role in the socialisation of young royals, which is an essential precondition for cohesion within the royal family; they are responsible for organising gatherings that bring the extended family together; and some intervene to resolve problems and mediate disputes within the royal family.
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