Queen Nazli Sabri, born in June 1894, played a pivotal role in Egyptian history as the first queen consort of the Kingdom of Egypt from 1919 to 1936. Her life was marked by significant political and personal events that reflected the tumultuous era in which she lived. This comprehensive biography explores her early life, royal duties, challenges, and eventual life in exile.
Family Heritage and Education
Nazli Sabri was born on 25 June 1895 to an influential Egyptian family with diverse heritage. Her father, Abdel Rahim Sabri Pasha, was the Minister of Agriculture and Governor of Cairo. Her mother, Tawfika Khanum Sharif, had Turkish, Greek, and French roots. This multicultural background gave Nazli a unique perspective and cultural richness that would later influence her role as queen.
Nazli’s family included notable figures such as her brother, Sherif Sabri Pasha, and her sister, Amina Sabri. Her maternal grandfather, Major General Mohamed Sherif Pasha, served as the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt. Additionally, her great-grandfather, Suleiman Pasha, was a French-born officer who significantly contributed to Egyptian military reforms.