Saudi Princess AlJoharah bint Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud On Risk-Taking, Conquering Fear and Rooting For The Underdogs

The granddaughter of King Abdulaziz, the founder of Saudi Arabia, gets candid about her lifelong role models, biggest accomplishments and future plans in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia here…

HRH Princess AlJoharah bint Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud could have easily rested on her laurels – after all, her grandfather King Abdulaziz was the founder of Saudi Arabia, but the 41-year-old has been blazing her own path as a serial entrepreneur, a high-profile philanthropist, and a Saudi woman happy to fly her country’s flag on the world stage.

Harper’s Bazaar Arabia spoke with the family-focused royal who has amassed a slew of degrees – including one from Harvard University – about the importance of giving back, stepping out of one’s comfort zone and tackling challenges head-on.

Interview with Saudi Princess AlJoharah bint Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

Harper’s Bazaar Arabia (HBA): You are considered a role model by so many and the embodiment of a successful Saudi woman; is that a mantle that you are comfortable wearing?

HRH Princess AlJoharah bint Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (HRH): It is a huge responsibility and I am very humbled by that view. I might seem comfortable in the public eye when I am engaging in events or conventions, but as a matter of fact, I am overwhelmed and I think of every detail that surrounds me and every word that will be said ­­– because of that view that you’ve mentioned – it is a great honour. If I can add something positive to my nation and people, I will work 10 times harder to achieve it, no matter how heavy the load.

HBA: As the founder and chairperson of Atlal AlMajd Holdings, your business credentials are impeccable. In addition you’ve launched Finding Sushi eateries, Starlight Pre-schools, and the Arabian Jewel Architects. Did you always know you were going to go down the entrepreneurship path?

HRH: Not really, my direction was a bit foggy when I went to college, as I still didn’t know what I wanted to do or what my future would hold. I studied many courses and changed my majors, as I was interested in numerous fields. Starting from science to more creative subjects, I then graduated with an engineering degree that combined both. When I started my career as an architect, it was interesting but I felt limited and a lot was missing, so I took a chance and stepped out of my comfort zone and that’s when my adventure as an entrepreneur started.

HBA: What do you know now that you wish you had known at the start of your career?

HRH: As humans we always say to ourselves, “I wish I knew that before.” But in actual life it is what makes us more vigilant in every step we take, whether it is in our personal life or in our career, in the end we are stronger and wiser.

HBA: What were some of the challenges you faced when establishing yourself in your career?

HRH: I think my challenges are very similar to every other entrepreneur. First you feel unsure and uncertain of the path you have chosen, then there’s the fear of wasting time and not succeeding. How I see it is that the challenge is in overcoming those fears, struggles and perusing your dreams until the end.

I feel that fear stimulates your imagination, thereby helping you reach something beyond what you were working for.

HBA: You have been a key figure on the global stage as a speaker at many prominent conferences – can you tell us a bit about those and what issues you’ve chosen to highlight?

HRH: I always feel honoured when I am invited to take part in conferences and events. I am very humbled to be a part of them. I am amongst accomplished, strong people and they always circulate around my three favourite topics: women, entrepreneurs and philanthropy.

HBA: You are the Vice President of the Talal bin Abdulaziz Foundation and are closely associated with the Arab Gulf Programme for Development, founded by your father HRH Prince Talal Bin Abdulaziz, which specialise in early childhood development and women’s empowerment initiatives. Was it a concerted choice for you to champion women’s causes?

HRH: I think it is a pure reaction that every woman has. As for women who don’t, I think they are acting against their natural instincts because of personal psychological clutter. So no, it wasn’t a choice; it was natural for me.

HBA: Can you share some of the people who have made an impact in your life and inspired you on both a professional and personal basis?

HRH: I think the answer to this question always turns into a cliché answer: my mother and father. But it is true, if you were raised by them, that’s the first answer that comes to mind, as I was fortunate to have them both in my life growing up. Others can say my grandmother or grandfather, or uncle and aunt and so on, as they were raised by them, then after that comes worldly inspirations. In my case I had all of the above and more; I was very lucky and I am very grateful.

HBA: Which are the Saudi brands to watch in your opinion?

HRH: I doubt I can answer that without being biased, as I know so many that are amazing and growing and a lot are run by dear friends of mine. I just keep an eye out for without having favourites. Many have supported me with love and style, the creativity and passion opened my eyes to so many others.

HBA: Which designers do you tend to veer towards, both internationally and regionally?

HRH: The underdogs, the ones with a story and, mostly, the ones with consistency.

HBA: How do you unwind?

HRH: Exercise gets my mind aligned and clears my thoughts. Meditation is so important and it comes in many forms, music is a big driver in my life and that of my family, and I love to read a good book.

HBA: Would you consider yourself a risk-taker or do you prefer to play it safe?

HRH: I am definitely a risk taker and it didn’t end well many times, but I learned a lot from it and grew to face my next challenge. I never let fear cloud my choices. Challenge conventional wisdom and you will be surprised by what your unexpected journey holds.

HBA: We know that you are about to publish a children’s book Gonzos Adventures and there are rumours that you are going to launch a new Paris-based fashion project. What is next in the pipeline for you?

HRH: I want to keep growing by reaching more and more people to get over their fears in finding their dream, whether it is through my work or through inspirational conventions, and to be the best role model for my children who are watching my every move, as they can continue paving the way for others in the future.

HBA: Is there anyone that you would have loved to meet that you never got the opportunity to?

‘The Unifier’ who I am fortunate to call my grandfather, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman, God rest his soul.

HBA: What do you think has been your greatest accomplishment?

HRH: Seeing my children embrace and become little philanthropists and entrepreneurs at such a young age. The way I see it, good parents give their children roots to know where home is and where you come from, wings to fly away and exercise what has been taught to them.

Follow HRH Princess AlJoharah bint Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on Instagram (@joharahtalal)

Photography: Sarah Almoqbil. Make-up: Abeer AlQhtani. White Suit: Honayda. Earrings: Charmaleena Jewellery.​ Rings: Repossi. Watch: Trebor.