What does it take to become Saudi Arabia’s next female ambassador? For Dar Al-Hekma students, the answer is just within reach. The Bachelor of Diplomacy and International Relations (BADIR) was launched in 2018, and it’s the first female-centered program of its kind in Saudi Arabia, specifically designed to empower women in global leadership.
Of course, this is just one of the many paths available for women. At DAH, the opportunities are limitless, so if you’re more legally minded and looking to continue your educational journey, our Commercial Law (LLM) program offers another way for you to excel.
Dar Al-Hekma is no stranger to championing women’s education, and BADIR is the crowning jewel of their efforts in that regard. They’ve led many initiatives to make sure female voices are heard and celebrated. And what better way to lift up women than to train them so they could stand on international podiums, represent their countries, and make their names known in the highly sought-after diplomatic sphere?
Students master core subjects like “Contemporary World History” and “Introduction to International Relations”, then apply them in simulations like DAHMUN, where they debate real-world crises alongside diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The union of these courses is ideal because it’s multi-faceted and does an excellent job of preparing students for careers in diplomacy and international relations.
Diplomatic Programs for Women: A First in Saudi Arabia
The Bachelor of Arts in Diplomacy and International Relations (BADIR) program at Dar Al-Hekma remains the first and only graduate program in the Kingdom for women who wish to study international relations and pursue a career in diplomacy. It boasts a comprehensive curriculum that combines theory and practice. This curriculum is designed to give students a deep understanding of the political and diplomatic realms. Students in this program delve into theories of international relations, global politics, international law, culture, and other related subjects.
The theoretical side of the equation equips students with the ability to develop outstanding critical thinking and writing skills, allowing them to hone their natural skills and helping them become adept at discussing global events and creating policy recommendations.
The practical side of the program offers an exciting opportunity for students to take part directly on the international stage. Each year, students have the option to embark on trips abroad, which allows them to immerse themselves in different cultures and institutions, all while critically engaging with policies and economies that are different from their own.
Achievements in the Real World
This merging of theory and practice has resulted in some truly stunning achievements that are worth mentioning and are a testament to the program’s efficiency, including:
Alumni Making Waves
Already, BADIR graduates are breaking barriers. Some have secured prestigious internships at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while others have represented Saudi Arabia at international forums, Model UN competitions, and youth diplomacy initiatives. These individuals are living proof of the fact that the program is fully dedicated to launching careers in a field where Saudi women are now stepping forward as key players, not just bystanders looking on, hoping for a seat at the table.
Exclusive Opportunities
What truly sets the BADIR program apart is its strategic partnerships. Through collaborations with government agencies, embassies, and global organizations, students stand to gain:
- Simulated negotiations that replicate real-world discussions like the ones at the UN or GCC.
- Direct engagement with diplomats through guest lecturers and intensive workshops.
- Study tours to global hubs like Geneva or New York, where they visit international bodies such as the UN or EU institutions.
Conclusion
Dar Al-Hekma’s BADIR program is an opportunity for natural-born leaders to thrive and put their skills to good use. While other programs in a similar realm tend to be dull due to their highly theoretical nature, DAH thrusts its students into the arena where treaties are drafted, alliances are formed, and history is made. Put simply, students can participate in the real world, negotiating in Model UN summits, representing Saudi Arabia on the world stage. This is where natural leaders learn to lead from day one.
