JEDDAH, 2 August 2005 — The youth of Saudi Arabia woke to the tragic news of the King Fahd’s death. Sadness and shock dominated the emotions of the majority. The young adults felt a closer connection with the king since they were born and brought up under his reign. “We were born when he was king. I didn’t know any other King so it’s hard to accept his death,” said Nuah Al-Najjar.

The youth of Saudi Arabia have not known any other king; to witness such a change is both difficult to comprehend and at the same time thrilling. “We are used to King Fahd since we haven’t known any other monarch.” said Doa’a Bataweel.

Many could not believe the sorrowful news of the king’s death. Reactions all fell along the same lines; some feeling more sadness then shock and others feeling hopeful for the government and developments that may occur.

King Fahd worked conscientiously for his nation’s welfare and is recognized by the nation’s youth for his commitment and positive impact.

The news spread quickly through text messages and cellular calls between friends, awakening the youths who forgot daylight existed. Once they learned of his death, the majority immediately switched on to the Arabic TV channels such as Al-Jazeera, Saudi Channel One and Rotana to obtain more details of the king’s death. Others read reports on the Internet websites ranging from Yahoo! front page, BBC News, and the Saudi government’s website.

Others on their way to work were surprised to find the Qur’an being recited on the FM radio channel. Many took this as a sign of a death of an important figure and thus began calling family members to learn more details.

News spread quickly in offices. Reham Abu Al-Hamayel, an intern at a local bank, said “Everyone at work was shocked and some even cried.” Others, as noticed by Amani Baobaid, “returned home from work as soon as they heard the news.”

Students attending King Abdul Aziz University believe that King Fahd played a big role in the educational system in the Kingdom. He always showed deep commitment to the educational system from the time he became minister of education to the time he was crowned king. University student Osama Ismail said “I was upset about the king’s death knowing that he has done so much for our nation especially in the field of education.”

“My fellow classmates and I found out the news of the King’s death before our final exam,” said Darene Feteih. “The students were shocked and at first did not know how to react.” Once the news set in Feteih noticed some had tears in their eyes.

Under King Fahd’s leadership, those employed by the Ministry of Education made strenuous efforts to lay the foundation of a comprehensive educational system. Students recognize and appreciate his efforts as they mourn his death.

There was a consensus that the impact of the king’s death will not have a great effect on the daily lives of Saudis. Ever since the king’s stroke in 1995 former Crown Prince Abdullah filled in for some responsibilities that the king could not attend to himself. As the king’s condition became critical, Crown Prince Abdullah helped a great deal in running the daily affairs of the state. Shahinaz Jan is one amongst many who feels that “there will be few changes in the political and social context of the nation.”

Many believe it will be a smooth transition from King Fahd to King Abdullah. “We have used to King Abdullah’s rule for some years now,” said Nuha Al-Najjar. Another Saudi, Rayan Hasanien doesn’t believe there are going to be any major changes since “the previous crown prince has already been in control.”

Osama Ismaeil said that “there have been changes in the past period since the former crown prince was in control.” As a result, he believes there are “going to be certain changes, such as the repositioning of employees in the government sectors.” Although the majority believes that there will be few changes in the country.

Many are hopeful for positive changes for women; this comes from an understanding that the new king is more open to the options of women’s privileges. However, this will only clear once King Abdullah has settled in his reign. “King Fahd was a man worth remembering,” Sameh Ageel said. “He helped in the development of country.” He also added, “He was a good king and with his death comes a good successor.”

“King Fahd was a father figure to all Saudis,” said Arwa Nawawi. “May his soul rest in peace.”