OBJECTIVE To describe and analyze the cephalometric dento-skeletal characteristics associated with Angle's Class II, division 1 malocclusion in Saudi population living in the western region. METHODS The material examined included 149 lateral head radiographs comprising two series: (1) 85 films of children with Class II, division 1 malocclusion and (2) 62 films of children with "normal" occlusion. Age range of the representing children was 10-13 years. RESULTS In Class II division 1 subjects, the maxilla was prognathic in relation to anterior cranial base. The mandible was normally positioned in relation to anterior cranial base. Upper incisors were proclined and lower incisors were normally positioned. The cranial base angle was not different between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS In the western region of Saudi Arabia, Class II division 1 malocclusion has specific characteristics. The presence of prognathic maxilla, in this sample, indicates that the use of head gear therapy might be more appropriate than functional appliances when treating Class II division 1 malocclusion in Saudis living in the Western region.