Saudi Founding Day is a major national occasion celebrating the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s rich history. On this day, Saudis commemorate the founding of the First Saudi State by Imam Mohammed bin Saud in 1727.

This occasion marks a pivotal moment in the Kingdom’s history, reflecting the national values and progress that laid the foundations of a strong and stable state. In this article, we explore the significance of Founding Day, its historical meaning, and its role in strengthening national identity, pride, and belonging.

Saudi Founding Day Holiday 1446 AH

Saudi Founding Day is celebrated annually on 22 February. In 2025, the occasion was marked by special events across the Kingdom, bringing people together to celebrate the nation’s distinguished history through official ceremonies, community activities, and public festivities. Founding Day is also an official holiday for all sectors in Saudi Arabia.

If Founding Day falls on a weekend, the holiday may be moved to the following Sunday, subject to official confirmation by the relevant authorities before the occasion.

The 2025 Founding Day School Holiday

According to the academic calendar issued by the Saudi Ministry of Education, the Founding Day holiday for students and education professionals fell on 23 February 2025, allowing everyone to participate in the national celebrations and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic occasion.

The Story of Saudi Founding Day: The Beginning of a Nation’s Glory and Unity

Saudi Founding Day commemorates the establishment of the First Saudi State by Imam Mohammed bin Saud on 22 February 1727, marking the beginning of a long journey toward unity and stability.

The Beginning: Diriyah and the Establishment of the First Saudi State

During the eighteenth century, the Arabian Peninsula faced fragmentation and tribal conflict. Imam Mohammed bin Saud, the ruler of Diriyah, succeeded in laying the foundations of a strong and unified state. He made Diriyah its capital and established a system of governance built on justice and stability, transforming it into a prominent political and cultural center.

Growth and Prosperity

Over the years, the First Saudi State expanded and experienced a period of cultural and economic prosperity, becoming a prominent regional power. Despite various challenges and conflicts, the Saudi leadership continued to uphold the principles on which the state had been founded.

The Founding Legacy and the Continuing Journey

The founding was more than a single historic moment; it marked the beginning of a long journey of development. That journey continued through the Second Saudi State and culminated in the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932 by King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud, who drew inspiration from his ancestors’ vision of building a strong, modern nation.

Why Do We Celebrate Founding Day?

In 2022, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, issued a Royal Order designating 22 February as the official date for Founding Day. The occasion honors the roots of the Saudi state and highlights its distinguished historical legacy spanning more than three centuries.

Founding Day is more than an anniversary. It is a symbol of unity, pride, and progress, reflecting the sacrifices of earlier generations and the nation-building journey that continues today. It stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s strength and its regional and international leadership.

The Objectives of Saudi Founding Day

Saudi Founding Day is a national occasion that reflects the Kingdom’s historical depth and highlights the deep roots of the First Saudi State. It serves several national and cultural objectives that strengthen awareness of Saudi history and foster a sense of belonging and national pride. Its principal objectives include:

1. Highlighting the Kingdom’s Historical Depth

• Highlighting the establishment of the First Saudi State by Imam Mohammed bin Saud in 1727.
• Emphasizing the Kingdom’s historical legacy, which extends for more than 300 years.

2. Strengthening National Identity

• Deepening the sense of pride associated with belonging to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Preserving the values and principles on which the Saudi state was established, including unity, justice, and security.

3. Celebrating the Roots of the Saudi State

• Introducing the achievements of the First Saudi State and explaining their influence on the development of the modern Kingdom.
• Highlighting the continuity of Saudi rule from its beginnings in Diriyah to the present day.

4. Promoting Cultural and Historical Awareness

• Expanding younger generations’ knowledge of the Kingdom’s history through events and educational activities.
• Highlighting the Saudi state’s role in advancing stability and civilization across the Arabian Peninsula.

5. Instilling Loyalty and Belonging

• Celebrating the national symbols and values on which the Saudi state was founded.
• Encouraging people to take pride in their heritage and participate in national celebrations.

6. Highlighting Saudi Achievements Throughout History

• Showcasing the economic and social progress made from the era of the First Saudi State to the present day.
• Highlighting the Saudi leadership’s role in achieving progress and stability over the centuries.

7. Strengthening National Cohesion

• Strengthening social bonds among citizens through national events and community celebrations.
• Promoting unity among all segments of society under the banner of the nation.

8. Celebrating Saudi Customs and Traditions

• Showcasing the authentic Saudi customs and traditions that formed an important part of the lives of earlier generations.
• Organizing heritage events that reflect daily life during the era of the First Saudi State.

Founding Day is more than a historical anniversary. It embodies the journey of a great nation that began centuries ago and continued until the Kingdom became one of the world’s leading countries. Celebrating this occasion strengthens belonging and pride in Saudi history, while affirming that the Kingdom draws its strength from its deep roots and enduring values.

Are There Specific Guidelines or Restrictions for Founding Day?

Saudi Founding Day is an official national occasion celebrated on 22 February each year. A set of guidelines and requirements helps ensure that celebrations reflect the Kingdom’s values and rich heritage. The main guidelines associated with the occasion include:

1. An Official Public Holiday

• Under the Royal Order, Founding Day is an official holiday across the public and private sectors, including schools and universities.
• If Founding Day falls on a weekend, the holiday is moved to the following day.

2. Celebrating in a Manner Befitting Saudi History

• Celebrations should reflect authentic Saudi identity through cultural and heritage activities that showcase the history of the First Saudi State.
• National events that promote pride in the Kingdom’s history may include military displays, cultural seminars, and traditional performances.

3. Respecting National Values and Principles

• All activities and celebrations should align with the values of Saudi society, including pride in its Islamic and Arab identity.
• The occasion must not be used for displays or activities that conflict with Saudi traditions.

4. Highlighting Historical and National Figures

• Founding Day commemorates Imam Mohammed bin Saud, founder of the First Saudi State, and highlights his role in building a unified political entity.
• The occasion also honors notable historical figures who contributed to the Kingdom’s foundation and stability.

5. Maintaining the Official Character of Celebrations

• Official events are overseen by government entities such as the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Media, and other relevant authorities.
• Community celebrations may be held provided that they comply with applicable regulations and official instructions.

6. Using the Approved Logo and Visual Identity

• A dedicated visual identity has been approved for Founding Day, including its official logo, colors, and typefaces, to create a consistent look across celebrations.
• Government entities and businesses are expected to use the unified identity in advertising campaigns and printed materials produced for the occasion.

7. Distinguishing Founding Day from Saudi National Day

• Founding Day is distinct from Saudi National Day on 23 September. Founding Day commemorates the establishment of the First Saudi State in 1727, while National Day celebrates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932.
• National Day-specific symbols should not be used as substitutes for the official Founding Day visual identity in related celebrations.

8. Respecting Public Order

• All events and activities must comply with the laws and regulations in force in the Kingdom.
• Legal action may be taken against violations of the law or conduct that compromises public safety during the celebrations.

Saudi Founding Day is an official occasion celebrated according to guidelines that preserve the Kingdom’s values and historical heritage. Following these guidelines helps strengthen national identity and commemorate the founding of the Saudi state in a manner worthy of the occasion and consistent with Saudi customs and traditions.

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