Introduction
Roya Nikkhah is a name synonymous with insightful royal coverage, authoritative commentary, and in-depth journalism. As the Royal Editor for The Sunday Times, she has built a career that places her at the center of major events surrounding the British royal family. From exclusive interviews with senior royals to groundbreaking stories, Nikkhah’s reporting has helped shape public perception of the monarchy. In this article, we will explore Roya Nikkhah’s career, her personal life (to the extent it’s known), her educational background, and her current influence in journalism.
Early Life and Education
While many aspects of Roya Nikkhah’s early life remain private, it is known that she was born in London, United Kingdom, in November 1978, making her around 46-47 years old as of 2025. Nikkhah’s educational background is a bit more elusive, with limited publicly available details. Sources suggest she may have attended boarding school and went on to study English Literature, possibly at Newcastle University, though these details are not widely confirmed in major public profiles.
Her career path, however, is well documented, marking her transition from a reporter to one of the most influential voices in royal journalism.
Roya Nikkhah Career Path and Current Work
Roya Nikkhah’s career trajectory is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of royal coverage. Here’s an overview of her career journey:
Early Career
Nikkhah began her journalism career at Building Magazine in the early 2000s, where she worked as a reporter and feature writer. This role laid the foundation for her future in journalism, but it wasn’t until she moved into royal reporting that her career truly began to flourish. She joined Telegraph Media Group and covered arts and royal affairs for The Sunday Telegraph and The Daily Telegraph.
Her time at the Telegraph was pivotal in honing her ability to cover the royal family, and it set the stage for her future as a royal correspondent.
Royal Editor at The Sunday Times
In 2014, Nikkhah was appointed Royal Editor at The Sunday Times, a position that solidified her as one of the leading royal journalists in the UK. In this role, she is responsible for covering the most important and sensitive royal events — from royal weddings and state ceremonies to family scandals and public appearances.
Nikkhah’s exclusive reporting on the Royal Family has made her one of the most trusted names in royal journalism. She is known for breaking high-profile stories, including interviews with senior royals like Prince William, Prince Harry, and other members of the British monarchy.
Her in-depth coverage and unique insights into royal affairs have made her a go-to expert on royal matters for numerous television networks, newspapers, and international publications. Nikkhah’s pieces are frequently among the most-read articles on The Sunday Times’ website, showcasing her ability to capture the public’s interest.
Roya Nikkhah Broadcasting and Public Speaking
In addition to her role as a royal editor, Nikkhah is a regular contributor to television and radio networks, including BBC, ITV, and Sky News. She is often invited to comment on royal events, providing expert analysis and background information. Nikkhah’s presence on air has made her a familiar face to viewers who turn to her for informed commentary during significant royal events, such as weddings, coronations, and the royal family’s public engagements.
Nikkhah has also made appearances in royal documentaries, including “Prince William, Monarch in the Making” (2020) and “Meghan and Harry: The Baby Years” (2019), where she lent her expertise and insight to exploring the lives of royal family members.
Additionally, Nikkhah frequently speaks at conferences and events, often offering her perspective on the evolution of the monarchy, media’s role in royal coverage, and the ethics of reporting on public figures.
Roya Nikkhah Key Achievements and Impact
Over her career, Roya Nikkhah has earned recognition for her pioneering work in royal reporting. Her impact can be seen not just in the stories she breaks but also in the way she has set a standard for royal journalism. Some key achievements include:
Breaking Royal Stories
Nikkhah is known for securing exclusive interviews and breaking major stories that often set the agenda for other journalists. Her coverage of the royal family has included some of the most widely reported events in recent British history, such as the birth of royal children, high-profile royal weddings, and the ongoing coverage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s departure from royal duties.
Shaping Public Discourse
Nikkhah’s work is more than just reporting facts; it shapes how people perceive the monarchy and royal events. Through her detailed reporting and commentary, she provides context and analysis that help the public understand the complexities of the royal family.
Her influence extends beyond her print and broadcast coverage. Nikkhah’s analysis is often referenced by other media outlets, making her a leading voice in royal discourse.
Recognition and Awards
Roya Nikkhah’s work has been recognized in the journalism community. In 2023, she was shortlisted for The Press Awards in the “Specialist Journalist of the Year” category, underscoring her standing as a leading figure in royal reporting.
Personal Life: What We Know
Despite her public profile, Roya Nikkhah has maintained a private personal life. Very little is known about her family, upbringing, or romantic relationships. Nikkhah has kept details about her personal life out of the public eye, choosing to focus on her professional work.
There have been occasional rumors and claims about her marital status, but these remain unverified by credible sources. She has not publicly discussed her family background in detail, and her social media presence is focused mainly on her work.
Roya Nikkhah Impact on Journalism and the Royal Beat
Roya Nikkhah’s influence in the world of journalism, particularly royal coverage, cannot be overstated. She has set a high bar for royal reporting, blending insightful analysis with exclusive access to key figures in the British monarchy. Her ability to secure in-depth interviews, break major stories, and provide balanced commentary has made her a trusted source for readers, viewers, and fellow journalists.
In a field often dominated by speculation and sensationalism, Nikkhah stands out for her commitment to accuracy, fairness, and professionalism. As royal editor at The Sunday Times, her work has not only shaped public understanding of the monarchy but has also contributed to the broader conversation about the role of the media in covering public figures.
Conclusion
Roya Nikkhah is a defining voice in royal journalism. Her career has been marked by a commitment to reliable reporting, insightful analysis, and a deep understanding of the British royal family. From her work at The Sunday Times to her contributions as a broadcaster and public speaker, Nikkhah continues to shape how the world views the monarchy. Though much of her personal life remains private, her professional achievements speak volumes about her dedication to her craft and her influence in the field of journalism.
Whether you are a royal watcher or a journalism enthusiast, Roya Nikkhah’s career is one worth following — a testament to the power of insightful reporting and its ability to shape public discourse.