National Saudi Day

Young woman wearing a vibrant traditional Saudi Arabian dress, standing in front of a bustling market, surrounded by colorful spices and Arabian lamps.. — National saudi day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of Saudi Arabia! Get ready to celebrate National Saudi Day, a day filled with joy, pride, and a whole lot of shawarma. Whether you're a fan of the breathtaking landscapes, the rich culture, or the delicious food, this is the perfect time to show some Saudi love. So, grab your abaya or thobe, hop on a magic carpet, and let's dive into the fascinating history and traditions of National Saudi Day!

When is Saudi Day?

It's national saudi day on the 23rd September.

The Birth of National Saudi Day

On this remarkable day, we commemorate the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a momentous event that took place on September 23, 1932. It was on this day that Abdulaziz Al Saud, known as Ibn Saud, officially became the nation's first king. This marked the beginning of a new era, bringing together regions and tribes under one flag, creating a united Saudi Arabia.

Since then, National Saudi Day has been celebrated annually with great zeal and enthusiasm. It's a time when the people of Saudi Arabia proudly come together to honor their heritage, their accomplishments, and their bright future.

The Spirit of Celebration

When it comes to celebrating National Saudi Day, the Saudi people know how to do it right! Streets are adorned with colorful decorations, and the air is filled with the sound of traditional music and joyous chants. Festivities are held throughout the country, highlighting various aspects of Saudi culture, including its captivating dance forms, captivating poetry, and of course, mouthwatering cuisine.

Food holds a special place in Saudi Arabian culture, and National Saudi Day is no exception. Families gather to enjoy sumptuous feasts, with dishes like kabsa, falafel, hummus, and kunafa taking center stage. It's a time for loved ones to come together, savor delicious food, and create lasting memories.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Saudi Arabia is home to the world's largest continuous sand desert, the Rub' al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter? This colossal sea of sand covers a staggering area of around 650,000 square kilometers (250,000 square miles). It's like having an entire nation-sized sandbox!

History behind the term 'Saudi'

1932

Formation of Saudi Arabia

In 1932, Abdulaziz ibn Saud established the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, unifying various parts of the Arabian Peninsula under one nation. The term 'saudi' originated from the name of the ruling dynasty, Al Saud, which traces its ancestry to Muhammad ibn Saud, the founder of the first Saudi state in the 18th century.

1938

Discovery of Oil

In 1938, vast oil reserves were discovered in Saudi Arabia, which transformed the nation's economy and global influence. The term 'saudi' gained prominence as a descriptor of the country due to its rich oil reserves and the subsequent rise of the Saudi Arabian oil industry.

1962

Introduction of the Term 'Saudi Arabia'

In 1962, the term 'Saudi Arabia' officially became the country's name, replacing the previously used 'Kingdom of Hejaz and Nejd and its Dependencies.' This further solidified the association of the term 'saudi' with the nation, as it became widely recognized as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

1979

Grand Mosque Seizure

The year 1979 saw a significant event that further emphasized the term 'saudi' in global media. The Grand Mosque in Mecca was seized by extremist militants, leading to a lengthy siege and a major confrontation. This event, widely known as the Grand Mosque Seizure, focused attention on Saudi Arabia and its role as the custodian of Islam's holiest sites.

1990

Invasion of Kuwait

In 1990, Saudi Arabia played a crucial role in the Gulf War when Iraq, under Saddam Hussein, invaded neighboring Kuwait. The Saudi government allowed foreign military forces, including the United States, to deploy troops within the kingdom to defend against potential aggression. This event further shaped the global perception of Saudi Arabia and the term 'saudi' as a key player in regional security.

21st Century

Economic and Social Transformations

In the early 21st century, Saudi Arabia underwent significant economic and social transformations. The term 'saudi' became closely associated with the country's efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil and implement extensive reforms, including Vision 2030, an ambitious plan to modernize various sectors. These developments further elevated Saudi Arabia's international prominence and the recognition of the term 'saudi' in the context of its ongoing changes.