Guided by his wise policy aimed at strengthening ties with all peace‑loving nations and peoples, His Majesty flew from Washington to Spain in response to an official invitation from the Head of the Spanish Government, General Francisco Franco.
As soon as the Spanish people learned of the approaching visit of the Saudi monarch, they joined their government in preparing grand displays of welcome and celebration.
On the day of his arrival, the Spanish capital was adorned from end to end with Saudi flags bearing the words of Tawhid: “There is no god but God; Muhammad is the Messenger of God.”
His Majesty received an unprecedented and exceptionally warm welcome.
A rich and varied program was prepared for His Majesty in Madrid, including official ceremonies, visits to institutes, factories, universities, military camps, and charitable organizations.
In Madrid, His Majesty met for the first time with his brother, King Mohammed bin Youssef (Mohammed V), King of Morocco, who was on a private visit to Spain.
During this meeting, it was agreed that King Saud would visit Morocco in response to the Moroccan monarch’s invitation.
His Majesty also received an invitation from the Tunisian government, which he graciously accepted.
Before His Majesty departed Madrid, the following joint communiqué was issued:
Official Joint Statement
The General Directorate of Radio, Press, and Publications announced the following:
During the official visit of His Majesty the King of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Madrid from the 10th to the 14th of February 1957 (10th–14th of Rajab 1376 AH), His Majesty held discussions with the Head of the Spanish State and members of his government.
The talks addressed matters directly related to relations between the two countries, with the aim of strengthening the bonds that unite them.
It was agreed that a Treaty of Friendship between the two nations would soon be concluded.
The two sides also exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest, particularly those concerning the situation in the Near East.
Both parties agreed on the objectives necessary to ensure peace and stability in the region—an effort in which the two countries would cooperate sincerely and fully, within the framework of the United Nations Charter.
Afterward, the triumphant royal procession moved southward toward Andalusia, to visit the lands that had once flourished under Arab‑Islamic rule during their most glorious eras.
There, palaces, mosques, and towers still stand as proud witnesses to a golden age, and the region continues to preserve many Arab customs and traits despite the passing of centuries.
His Majesty visited Seville, touring its enduring monuments.
He then traveled to Córdoba, where he visited the Great Mosque, walked through its majestic halls, and performed the first Islamic prayer at its mihrab in more than seven hundred years.
After several days filled with tours, visits, and heartfelt hospitality, His Majesty departed Andalusia on his way to the Arab world—specifically to Rabat, the capital of Morocco.