Saudi Founding Day: Rooting History and Cementing Identity

February 22nd of each year marks Saudi Founding Day, the essential national occasion embodying the steadfast beginning of the first Saudi state three centuries ago. This commemoration is not merely a historical event, but an expression of deep roots and the strength of national identity forged over a journey spanning more than 300 years. It stands as one of the most prominent occasions in the consciousness of the Saudi people, carrying profound historical, political, and cultural significance.

Historical Beginnings and Foundations of Establishment

Saudi Founding Day rests upon a pivotal moment that marked a turning point in the history of the Arabian Peninsula, grounded in a historical alliance and solid reformist principles.

The Historical Alliance and the Establishment of the State

In 1727 AD, Diriyah witnessed the birth of the First Saudi State with Imam Mohammed bin Saud assuming its rule. This state was founded upon a historical alliance that united political leadership, embodied by Imam Mohammed bin Saud, and religious reform, led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Wahhab. This unique alliance merged politics and religion, forming a solid nucleus for building a unified political entity for the first time in decades of fragmentation.

The Solid Foundations of Governance

The foundational building blocks of a comprehensive governance system were laid during the era of the First Saudi State. These foundations included achieving political unity among scattered regions of the Arabian Peninsula, adopting Islamic Sharia as the reference for governance and judiciary, and establishing organized administrative frameworks for state affairs. These principles established a model of stable governance that enabled the spread of security and stability – the very same foundations upon which the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia rests today.

Distinguishing Between Founding Day and National Day

Some confuse two pivotal national occasions in the Kingdom’s history, but each has its distinct historical context and significance.

The Historical Significance of Founding Day

Founding Day focuses on the deep historical legacy of the state. It celebrates the actual beginning of the Saudi political entity’s establishment in Diriyah in 1727 AD, embodying the spirit of the initial struggle and the foundational sacrifices made by the forefathers to build the pillars of a strong state. The occasion evokes the glories of the distant past and affirms the continuity of the national project across centuries.

The Nature and Symbolism of National Day

In contrast, Saudi National Day on September 23rd commemorates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in its modern form under the leadership of the Founding King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1932 AD. It celebrates comprehensive territorial unity and the transformation of the Kingdom into a modern, unified state within its current borders. Founding Day, however, reaches back to the roots of the initial establishment over two centuries prior.

The fundamental difference between the two occasions is clarified as follows: Founding Day (February 22) marks the year 1727 AD, commemorating the founding of the First Saudi State, with its focus on deep historical roots and Imam Mohammed bin Saud as the key leader. National Day (September 23) marks the year 1932 AD, commemorating the declaration unifying the modern Kingdom, with its focus on achieving complete territorial unity and King Abdulaziz Al Saud as the key leader.

Diverse Cultural and Civilizational Activities

On Founding Day, the Kingdom transforms into a vibrant stage showcasing historical authenticity and cultural richness through a wide array of activities engaging all segments of society.

Embodying History and Living Heritage

Massive historical exhibitions are held, showcasing the journey of the Saudi state since its founding, utilizing documents, photographs, and rare artifacts. Alongside this, public squares and parks abound with displays of folk arts and heritage dances reflecting the rich cultural diversity across the Kingdom’s regions, such as the Saudi Ardah and traditional music. Authentic historical costumes are also showcased, recreating the lives of the forefathers.

Knowledge, Awareness, and Community Interaction

Cultural programs include high-level educational seminars and lectures, such as the “Founding Experiences” series and “Founding Memory,” where historians and researchers shed light on the details and values of the founding era. Interactive events are widespread, including the Founding Theater presenting dramatic works depicting historical events, alongside knowledge competitions and educational workshops aimed at children and youth to enhance their awareness of the nation’s history.

Strengthening Belonging and Envisioning the Future

Celebrating Founding Day transcends being merely a historical occasion; it serves as a platform to deepen national bonds, solidify values, and confidently look towards the future.

Deepening Bonds of Belonging and Pride

The day presents a tremendous opportunity to strengthen the sense of belonging to the homeland and pride in the symbolism of the three-century-old Saudi state. By recalling the sacrifices of the pioneers in the nation-building journey, citizens’ awareness of the authenticity of their national identity and the strength of their heritage is renewed. The widespread participation of citizens and residents in various activities reflects this collective feeling of pride and loyalty.

Deep Roots for Visioning the Future

Founding Day affirms that the journey of comprehensive development and progress witnessed by the Kingdom today, embodied in Vision 2030, is not disconnected from the past. It is a natural extension built upon deep historical roots and authentic values, inspired by wise leadership to forge a prosperous future. It sends a clear message that the illustrious past is the solid foundation for building a promising tomorrow, echoed in the occasion’s slogan: “Our Beginning Day”.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commemorates this Founding Day as the starting point in the journey of a great nation, highlighting the depth of history and the strength of identity that form the basis of its present and future. The rich cultural and heritage activities are not merely a celebration of the past; they affirm the continuity of the journey of construction and development, cement national values in the hearts of generations, and remind us that the vision for a bright future springs from roots firmly planted in the soil of heritage and sacrifice. It is a day to take pride in the past, have confidence in the present, and steadfastly look forward to a tomorrow carrying further achievements for the Kingdom and its people.