February 2002 -- Proposes a comprehensive peace plan to address the violence in Jerusalem and other Israeli-Palestinian areas. It is the first such plan introduced by an Arab nation since 1947. This plan calls for full Arab recognition of Israel as a nation, and a complete withdrawal by Israel from territories gained since a 1967 war.

April 25, 2002 - Meets with President George W. Bush at the president's ranch in Crawford, Texas.

2004 - In a 2004 speech broadcast on Saudi television, Abdullah warns Saudi citizens not to support extremists who want to overthrow the ruling family, and vows to hunt them down, regardless of how long it takes.

August 1, 2005 - Becomes sixth King of Saudi Arabia following the death of, King Fahd bin Abdulaziz al Saud. He chooses Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz el Saud as crown prince.

2008 - King Abdullah hosts President George W. Bush at the royal ranch in Jenadriyah.

February 2009 - Appoints Saudi Arabia's first female minister.

November 13, 2010 - Transfers his position as commander of the Saudi kingdom's National Guard to his son Prince Mitab bin Abdullah.

November 24, 2010 - Is in New York for operation on vertebrae and a herniated disc.

December 4, 2010 - Second vertebrae and a herniated disc surgery.

September 25, 2011 - Announces that women can run for office and vote in local elections in 2015.

October 2011 - Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz al Saud dies. Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz al Saud is named crown prince.

October 2011 - Undergoes his third back surgery within a year.

June 16, 2012 - Crown Prince Nayef dies.

June 18, 2012 - Abdullah's half brother Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud is named crown prince.