Thursday, July 16, 2026

Riyadh - SPA:

The King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah) published a new episode of its series 'Men of King Abdulaziz,' highlighting aspects of oral history narratives preserved by the foundation through the testimony of Abdulaziz bin Suhaim, one of the companions of King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud – may God rest his soul – in which he documented the details of the historic journey made by King Abdulaziz to the Arab Republic of Egypt at the invitation of King Farouk, following the latter's visit to King Abdulaziz in Yanbu.

The foundation explained that the episode is part of a comprehensive oral interview preserved in its oral history archive, available to researchers and interested parties through the Beneficiary Services Center, as a historical source documenting testimonies of those who witnessed the era of the unification and founding of the Kingdom.

The narrative details the departure of the delegation from Jeddah, where King Abdulaziz was accompanied by Prince Mansour bin Abdulaziz, and a number of ministers including Abdullah Al-Sulaiman and Mohammed bin Sarur, along with several police officers and a group of 'Al-Khuwayya' (close retinue). It indicates that the delegation boarded three ships, including 'Al-Mahrousa' and 'Zamzam,' and the sea voyage took approximately 37 hours.

The testimony also recounts the rough sea waves experienced during the journey, recalling King Abdulaziz's composure and steadfastness. He remained leaning on his cane, glorifying and praising God, without showing any fear or distress, a stance that deeply affected his companions.

The episode documents the official reception ceremonies King Abdulaziz received upon his arrival in Egypt and the welcome by King Farouk, as well as details of his stay, which lasted approximately 14 days, including meetings and visits such as praying at Al-Azhar Mosque, along with the narrator's daily observations while accompanying the king, reflecting aspects of his leadership personality and life during that period.

Abdulaziz bin Suhaim is considered one of the most prominent companions of King Abdulaziz, having accompanied him for 22 years and witnessing several important historical milestones, lending his narrative documentary value as a direct testimony to pivotal events in the Kingdom's history.

The series 'Men of King Abdulaziz' is part of the King Abdulaziz Foundation's efforts to preserve and make accessible oral history, by publishing excerpts from oral interviews and making their full recordings available through the Beneficiary Services Center, contributing to the preservation of national memory, enriching scientific research, and enhancing awareness of the Kingdom's history.