Founding Day: Celebrating Saudi’s Roots

Mark your calendars! February 22 is Saudi Founding Day, a national holiday that’s more than just a history lesson—it’s about celebrating the Kingdom and its people in all their diversity and shared history. It’s about what it means to be Truly Saudi.

What’s the Story?

All the way back in 1727 (for context, that’s seven decades before the U.S. Declaration of Independence!), Imam Muhammad bin Saud took the first steps toward shaping what we now know as Saudi Arabia. He established the First Saudi State in Diriyah, a historic city near today’s capital, Riyadh. This was the beginning of a vision that would eventually unite the Arabian Peninsula into the modern Kingdom, laying the foundation for today’s Saudi identity.

Why Does It Matter?

Saudi Founding Day isn’t just about looking back—it’s about celebrating the rich culture and traditions of every province in the Kingdom. So, whether they hail from the snowcapped mountains of the north, the glorious central deserts or the stunning coasts, Saudi Founding Day is a moment for all Saudis to connect with their heritage and take pride in their shared history.

Two National Holidays? Absolutely!

Some might wonder, ‘Isn’t that just an independence day holiday?’ Not quite. Here’s the breakdown:

Saudi Founding Day (February 22) celebrates the founding of the first Saudi Kingdom in 1727
Saudi National Day (September 23) marks the modern Kingdom’s declaration of independence in 1932
That means double the celebrations and double the quality time with your friends and family.
How Do We Celebrate?
Saudi Founding Day is all about immersing in the culture, and the festivities bring something for everyone:
Fireworks & Light Shows – A spectacular display across major cities
Concerts & Music – Featuring Saudi artists and global stars
Traditional Fashion – A time to rep your Saudi fits with pride
Culinary Delights – Special dishes celebrating Saudi flavors from around the Kingdom
Sports & Events – The calendar is stacked with the Saudi Cup, Riyadh Season, and Diriyah Season, making it a perfect time to visit!

You won’t want to miss it!