As February 22 approaches, Saudi Arabia prepares to turn its streets into vibrant arenas glowing with one of the most important milestones in its history.
This day is unlike any other; it is a time window that takes us back 300 years to celebrate the beginning of the First Saudi State. In this article, we will explore the founding day events, a Saudi Foundation Day Celebration filled with excitement and national pride.
What is Saudi Founding Day?
Saudi Founding Day is a national anniversary that commemorates the establishment of the First Saudi State in 1727 AD by Imam Muhammad bin Saud. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, designated this day as an official annual holiday starting in 2022, to fall on February 22 each year.
This year’s Founding Day identity carries the slogan “Yawm Badينا” (The Day We Began), which embodies pride in historical roots, heroism, and the sacrifices upon which the state was built. On this day, the Kingdom’s regions dress in cultural and heritage-inspired attire; founding-day events and celebrations are organized to revive the story of a nation’s rise and highlight the values it was built upon.
The importance of Founding Day events
Founding day events strengthen the spirit of belonging and unity among community members, as Saudis take pride in their nation’s deep-rooted legacy spanning three centuries. These activities also reinforce national identity and deliver history to younger generations through an enjoyable, interactive approach that goes beyond traditional rote learning. The celebrations align with Vision 2030 to deepen pride in the homeland and connect generations to their glorious history in a vivid, living way.
In addition, these activities boost tourism and economic movement; families flock to attend the Saudi Foundation Day Celebration and benefit from special offers launched by stores and airlines for this occasion.
Saudi Founding Day events across the Kingdom’s regions
From the north to the south of the Kingdom, cities and villages transform into beautiful celebration stages during the Saudi Foundation Day Celebration.
Each region has its own character, but the common thread is the historic atmosphere and heritage-based activities that take visitors on a journey through time to honor the sacrifices and heroism of the past.
Below are the most notable founding day events expected across the Kingdom this year:
- Al-Liwan Heritage Event: Folk markets and handicrafts held in 14 cities, taking visitors 300 years into the past through theater scenes and live exhibitions that represent the era of the founding.
- The Founding March: A cultural and artistic parade that portrays the stages of the Saudi state’s development since its earliest beginnings, with participating groups performing historical scenes in front of the public.
- Light shows and fireworks: Major city skies are adorned with dazzling fireworks that fill the atmosphere with joy, especially above the Jeddah Corniche, the beaches of Al Khobar, and Riyadh, where modern digital shows light up the sky with drone fleets and innovative lighting.
- Wearing traditional attire: Streets and malls are filled with crowds of citizens and residents wearing heritage clothing such as the “Al-Murawdin” and “Al-Muqassab” for men and the “Burqa” for women, creating a collective scene that revives authentic identity in the modern era.
In addition to these unified founding day events within the Saudi Foundation Day Celebration, each region organizes special shows that reflect its local culture and deep history.
Saudi Founding Day events in Riyadh
As the capital and the cradle of the first state, Riyadh claims the lion’s share of Saudi Founding Day events. In Riyadh, historical showcases blend with modern entertainment vibes to suit all groups.
Here are the highlights awaiting you during the Saudi Foundation Day Celebration in Riyadh:
- In the historic Diriyah area: The live Founding March sets off, featuring figures and symbols from the founding era in an awe-inspiring atmosphere that brings past glory back to mind. Visitors line both sides of the road to watch horsemen and national chants in a deeply moving scene.
- Epic performances: Artistic shows and national plays are organized to narrate, through musical and performance scenes, the story of the state’s founding and its development up to today. These shows are staged in theaters equipped with the latest technologies to deliver an impactful experience for audiences.
- Entertainment zones: Major destinations open their doors with special programs; Boulevard World and Riyadh Season zones present dedicated shows on February 22. There, families can enjoy games and modern performances decorated with the spirit of Founding Day.
Riyadh’s founding day events are not complete without the dazzling nighttime light displays; the sky is illuminated at multiple locations with fireworks formations and drone shows, so the capital lives a historic night that leaves a beautiful mark on the hearts of today’s generations.
Saudi Founding Day events in Jeddah
Jeddah shines in its own way on Founding Day, blending the rich heritage of the Hijaz with the pulse of the Red Sea in beautiful activities. The city of Jeddah will host a package of distinctive celebrations that rival Riyadh in diversity and enthusiasm:
- Fireworks on the Corniche: Jeddah’s sky lights up with stunning shows on the evening of February 22, drawing light paintings that reflect the joy of residents and visitors on this national occasion. Watching the colors reflect on the waters of the Red Sea will be a breathtaking experience.
- Tariq Abdulhakim Museum: It hosts national celebrations featuring artistic marches showcasing the Kingdom’s history, alongside musical performances honoring the nation’s glory. The museum’s halls become interactive platforms that tell the founding story in an engaging way.
- Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad): Streets are decorated with flags and lights, and folkloric shows and live traditional music by popular troupes are held, reviving Hijazi heritage within modern founding day events that attract residents and tourists alike.
In conclusion, Saudi Founding Day proves that it is not merely a rigid historical remembrance but a living experience that brings the Kingdom’s people together under the banner of pride and dignity. Get ready for a unique holiday filled with fun and culture.
FAQs about Saudi Founding Day events
When is the Founding Day holiday in 2026?
Founding Day in 2026 falls on Sunday, February 22, and will be an official holiday, with three days off due to the weekend.
What is the slogan of Saudi Founding Day for 2026?
The Founding Day 2026 slogan is “Yawm Badينا” (The Day We Began), which embodies pride in the Kingdom’s beginnings and its deep-rooted history.
What are the most prominent Saudi Founding Day events this year?
The most prominent founding day events in 2026 include heritage shows, such as the Al-Liwan event, a historic Founding March in Diriyah, fireworks shows in major cities, and a collective wearing of traditional attire.
What is the difference between Founding Day and Saudi National Day?
Founding Day, on February 22, 1727 AD, marks the establishment of the First Saudi State, founded by Imam Muhammad bin Saud, while National Day, on September 23, 1932 AD, marks the announcement of the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the unifier King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud, may he rest in peace.
How do I prepare to attend Founding Day celebrations?
We recommend planning early; book flights and hotels in advance to take advantage of discounts. Follow the event schedule in your region through the official Saudi Arabia platform, and do not forget to wear heritage attire to share the atmosphere and immerse yourself in the spirit of the Saudi Foundation Day Celebration.