September 23 marks the 96th anniversary of the unification of Saudi Arabia. And needless to say, it’s a day designed to celebrate, with the Kingdom going all out with fireworks, air shows, parades, and cultural displays. And for the people celebrating, there are even more options to celebrate Saudi’s history and heritage. For those looking to make the most of the public holiday, here are the spots to shop, dine, and experience.
APOA
Founded by Saudi Princesses Noura Abdulaziz Al Saud, Sara Naif Al Saud, and Mashael Khalid Al Saud, APOA (A Piece of Art) turns Saudi heritage, architecture, and nature into statement accessories. Drawing from the region’s cultural story, the pieces, bold and beautiful, are designed by the sisters and crafted in ateliers in Spain and Italy. With their latest collection inspired by 90’s Japan, metals are softened to resemble origami shapes.
Asteri Beauty
We’re sure you’ve come across the Saudi beauty brand for its desert-proof collection. Now, for Saudi National Day, the brand has collaborated with Saudi artists, Zaina Alhizami and Nouf Al Muneef, to create a limited-edition collection. Featuring Asteri’s cult favourites packed in a collectable box with the exclusive artwork, this piece works as the perfect National Day gift or solo treat!
Banyan Tree AlUla
Since Saudi National Day is all about celebrating heritage, why not spend the day within the country’s ancient landscapes? At Banyan Tree AlUla, guests can take in the dramatic landscapes of Ashar Valley, spend the day doing yoga by the valley, explore the natural landscape, and more. From September 22 – 26, you can find a special Saudi National Day offer at the desert resort, with rates starting from SAR 1,932 per night and complimentary upgrades subject to availability.
Café Boulud Riyadh
A space where time slows down and food takes centre stage, those looking to celebrate with fine French cuisine should drop by Café Boulud. For Saudi National Day, the French dining experience is hosting offers throughout the day. During the day, guests can enjoy a three-course lunch for SAR 196, while nighttime brings a dinner buffet, priced at SAR 296. The menu for the day will also feature Saudi-inspired flavours and limited edition themed drinks.
eforea Spa & Health Club
Who says celebration can’t also be a reset? Located in Hilton Riyadh, eforea Spa & Health Club gives the ultimate pampering with a range of massages, facials, and rejuvenating treatments. With warm lighting and precise hands, you can spend the day with a deep focused reset.
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Celebrating the Saudi values of hospitality and generosity, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve’s Saudi National Day celebration is one that’s much quieter. Set on the Ummahat Islands, the retreat is shaped by cultural celebrations and reconnecting with nature. Communal dining shaped by Saudi flavours, complimentary mangrove exploration, and snorkelling within the Red Sea are what you can expect.
Turtle Bay Resort
Going all out for the holiday, this Red Sea resort offers the full celebratory experience. Starting from September 23 with a cake cutting, sunset majlis featuring live music, and Yanba’awi folk dance, the experience then moves into live Oud performances, Saudi-themed buffets, wellness treatments inspired by Saudi beauty rituals, and kids’ activities that keep the celebratory mood high.
Mansard Spa by L’Occitane
For those looking to have a reset ritual before the big day comes, Mansard Spa by L’Occitane might be what you’re looking for. For National Day, the spa will host a Recharge Day, offering a one-hour massage followed by flotation sound therapy. Priced at SAR 1,396, the offer runs on Saturday, September 19.
Rosewood AMAALA
Bringing coastal energy to the celebrations, guests are invited to enjoy the Saudi riviera. Turning the holiday into a celebratory weekend, expect to find the resort drawn in with Saudi influences. Experiences and entertainment are rooted in the spirit of Arabian rituals and artistry, while dining spotlights the Kingdom’s culinary traditions. Held from September 23 – 25.
Osila
Sure, everyone dresses in green but for those looking to add to an outfit, you cannot go wrong with Osila. Translating to honey, the brand specialises in tailored abayas inspired by geometry and natural motifs. Sitting on the line between edgy and elegant, the brand makes for a celebratory outfit, a thoughtful gift, or simply a treat for a transitional wardrobe.
St. Regis Red Sea Resort
Adding to the list of staycation experiences is St. Regis Red Sea Resort. Located at Ummahat Island, celebrations here go all week long from September 22 – 26. However, for Saudi National Day, the resort will host an exclusive Saudi National Day dinner that gathers the Kingdom’s regional specialities onto one table. Outside, guests can enjoy the quiet lull of the island, with wellness treatments at the St. Regis Red Sea Resort Spa for a complete comedown.
Najd Village
Honouring the best of Saudi flavours is Najd Village, a spacious yet warm eatery that serves authentic Saudi cuisine. Set to look like a house you would find in the Najd region, expect to find fragrant curries, freshly baked bread, and plenty of Maqluba.
Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea
Another worthwhile escape from the city, Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea comes with the best of what the desert sandscapes have to offer. Celebrating Saudi National Day from September 23 – 26, the retreat is designed to be a slow, immersive journey across the Kingdom’s nature, heritage, and traditions. Guests can expect falcon photoshoots, Saudi-inspired art installations, live Oud performances, traditional poetry, and more under the desert sky. Taste also finds ground here, from coffee rituals to dining rooted in local heritage.
