“Look after the weak, for the strong can look after themselves.”
Our story
King Khalid Foundation was founded to champion the values and beliefs of King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to bring his message of inclusion and compassion to a new generation of Saudi youth.
Through service to the people of Saudi Arabia, we act to keep his legacy alive, and to realise his vision of a flourishing Saudi society, where every individual has the opportunity and freedom to thrive.
About
King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was an inspirational leader dedicated to the progress of his country and people, and to the future success of Saudi Arabia. His reign laid the foundations for the kingdom’s rapid social and economic development, and gave rise to a legacy of tolerance, unity and humanity that continues to shape Saudi Arabia today.
King Khalid was born in the city of Riyadh in 1913, and led Saudi Arabia from 1975 until his death in 1982. An advocate of empowerment, equality and generosity, he worked tirelessly to ensure the kingdom’s wealth was put in the hands of its people, and used for their benefit. From investments in education, healthcare and social empowerment, to championing the role of women in public life, his stewardship prepared Saudi Arabia for the global role it plays today.
A central tenet of King Khalid’s philosophy was his support for vulnerable communities – both within Saudi Arabia and abroad. His efforts to combat poverty, and to uplift marginalised populations, helped transform the lives of millions. He was a man of peace, and a symbol of Islamic solidarity, who emphasised the view of Islam as a faith that teaches kindness and harmony, and which upholds human dignity. Throughout his life, he strove to promote cooperation among Islamic countries, and to protect the rights of Muslim minorities.
His efforts were acknowledged through numerous awards and honours from nations and institutions, including the United Nations Gold Medal for Peace and the King Faisal Prize for Serving Islam.
King Khalid was devoted to his family. His sons and daughters describe him as a warm father, who took joy in simplicity, and whose humility remained unchanged throughout his life. As he told them: “I was born as Khalid, and became a father and a king as Khalid, and I will go about my life as Khalid the man. Nothing changes.”
Today, King Khalid is remembered as a ruler who was of the people, and acted for the people, guided by love and loyalty for his country. Through King Khalid Foundation, we work to ensure his values ring loudly for this generation, and for those to come.
King Khalid was a devout Muslim, and an advocate for Islamic communities worldwide. His legacy includes two important mosques, which the foundation is proud to support.
King Khalid Mosque
King Khalid Mosque is among Riyadh’s most prominent landmarks, and a focal point for the city’s community. The mosque was founded in 1987 and built at a cost of SR45 million, before opening its doors on April 14, 1988, following Asr prayer. The first lecture was held the next day, in the presence of the late Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah bin Baz.
Today, the mosque is a central gathering point for daily prayers, Friday congregational worship, and for funeral prayers. During the holy month of Ramadan, iftar and suhoor meals are distributed to worshippers, with hundreds of people catered to each day.
As part of its commitment to religious education, and community cohesion, the mosque also hosts a range of Islamic lectures, alongside courses in Quran recitation and memorisation.
King Abdulaziz Mosque
King Abdulaziz Mosque was initially constructed by King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and was rebuilt after his death at a cost of more than SR3 million. Located in Riyadh, the mosque spans two floors, and occupies an area of 1,994 sq m.