The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia gears up to commemorate the first public holiday of the year: Saudi Founding Day 2026. Held on February 22, this holiday celebrates Saudi history, its legacy, and the establishment of the First Saudi State by Imam Muhammad bin Saud back in 1727.
Not to be confused with Saudi National Day—where the nation celebrates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932—Saudi Founding Day is another significant chapter in the Kingdom’s history. During this day, emphasis is put upon Saudi culture, customs, and traditions. This day is also a moment to reflect on the progress the Kingdom has made, celebrating milestones and achievements. People usually celebrate by donning their cultural dress, which differs from region to region, and will indulge in local food, folk music, and traditional performances.
Whereas at the capital, visitors can expect military shows and cultural procession, complete with fireworks and an air show by the Saudi Hawks. Those visiting can also catch a cultural celebration at Qasr Al-Hukm. Featuring exhibitions that map the Kingdom’s story, immersive activations that allow you to experience symbols of the culture firsthand, and the traditional Ardah dance, the event goes deep into paying homage to Saudi Arabia’s DNA.
And finally, another way of celebrating the joyous day is making a visit to Diriyah, AKA the birthplace of Saudi Arabia. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is here that Imam Muhammad bin Saud established the first Saudi state. Right at the outskirts of Riyadh, the town transports us back in time to 18th-century Saudi Arabia, where museums and traditional Najdi villages keep the Kingdom’s history alive. You might have to mentally prepare for traffic and crowds, but also a shared connection between communities here.
