As streets across Saudi cities were adorned in green and traditional attire, a series of major cultural and entertainment events were under way on Sunday across the Kingdom to mark Founding Day. Riyadh and cities nationwide were transformed into cultural and tourism destinations, attracting thousands of citizens, residents, and visitors who came to witness the legacy and impact of the epic nation-building journey that shaped the history of the Arabian Peninsula.
This year’s Founding Day coincided with the nights of the holy month of Ramadan, giving the celebrations a distinct national and cultural character, with evening events held in a Ramadan atmosphere. Cities across Saudi Arabia commemorated Founding Day by expressing pride in the state’s deep-rooted origins, its historical depth, and the enduring bond between citizens and their leaders since the establishment of the First Saudi State three centuries ago.
Diriyah...The Beating Heart of History
Historic Diriyah took center stage in the celebrations, as the At-Turaif district, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hosted a range of distinctive events organized by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority.
Founding Day activities in At-Turaif brought visitors closer to history through immersive experiences set in the birthplace of the Saudi state. At the At-Turaif Majlis, children were introduced to the stories of Diriyah through dedicated workshops, while storyteller Nawaf Al-Huwaimil captivated audiences with rich historical narratives delivered in a distinctive style.
In the “Misyan Sessions,” Dr. Faisal Al-Amer led in-depth academic discussions on Diriyah’s legacy and the expansion of the Saudi state. The program also included Arabian horse displays and specialized Founding Day guided tours along a historical route highlighting leadership, community partnership, and collective contribution during the founding era.
The Capital...Where Modernity Meets Heritage
In the heart of Riyadh, the Qasr Al-Hukm district and Al-Adl Square hosted national events under the patronage of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City. Activities included the “Mikhayal Hal Al-Awja” exhibition, which showcased the stages of state formation using contemporary visual techniques.
The Riyadh Municipality decorated streets and major roads to mark Founding Day, installing more than 5,000 decorative light features across key routes, squares, and public spaces. The initiative enhanced the visibility of the occasion across neighborhoods, creating a cohesive visual identity that reflects pride in the Kingdom’s history and underscores the significance of Founding Day.
Street decorations conveyed a deep sense of belonging and pride, as light blended with national identity across the capital. Roads and squares became living canvases of national pride, marking 299 years of building and achievement and expressing loyalty to the leadership and the nation’s enduring journey.
The municipality also continued its Founding Day activities in parks and public squares, reinforcing the occasion’s presence in communal spaces, strengthening pride in historical roots, and encouraging community engagement across Riyadh
Celebrations across the Kingdom
Celebrations were not limited to the capital. Festivities took place across 13 regions of Saudi Arabia as the country marked Founding Day for the fifth time since King Salman issued a royal order designating February 22 each year as Founding Day.
In Jeddah, a multi-day program was launched, featuring decorations across main roads, squares, gates, and parks throughout the city. Prince Majed Park hosted on-the-ground events on February 22, including falconry and horse displays, handicrafts, children’s activities, drawing, and henna.
The celebrations reflected the historical depth of Founding Day and reinforced pride in national identity.
In the Tabuk region, Founding Day was marked through 23 national, cultural, and heritage events across cities and governorates, with participation from government and private entities. The activities highlighted the historical significance of the occasion and strengthened values of belonging and pride in Saudi identity.
