Saudi National Day 2018 – The History Behind & The Celebrations Ahead

There’s great excitement all over the Kingdom! Yes, Saudi Arabia is getting ready to celebrate the 89^th Saudi National Day on 23^rd September. It is a public holiday in the Kingdom; every citizen partakes in the festivities and shows their deep love and gratitude towards their country. You can see colorful fireworks, water shows, as well as a series of events that revolve around patriotic and educational themes.

History of Saudi National Day

World War I was the time when the Ottoman Empire which had been ruling since 16^th century collapsed and the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia emerged.

Ibn Saud (the son of Abdul Rahman bin Faisal who had been the last ruler of the ‘Second Saudi State’), became the Sultan of Najd, the central region of Arabia in 1921. After conquering the Hejaz (western Arabia ) in 1925, Ibn Saud was declared King of the Hejaz on 10 January 1926. In 1927, he changed his title to King of Nejd. Despite being King of both regions, he ruled the two parts of his kingdom separately for the next five years. And then the year of 1932 arrived when after a two-year campaign to suppress and defeat former allies, that the kingdoms of the Hejaz and Nejd were renamed and unified as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Note:

Saudi Arabia National Day was declared a public holiday in 2007.

Saudi National Day is celebrated on 23 September to commemorate the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by King Abdulaziz in 1932.

Celebrations for Saudi National Day

The national pride can be felt throughout the country during the day. On this day, people who assisted in the country’s establishment are honored and the milestones that the country has achieved are remembered. You can expect to see the decorations of buildings and roads and fireworks in the evening.

Since Saudi National Day 2019 is falling on Monday, by availing leave on Sunday you can plan for an exciting extended weekend vacation.  Wondering where to go? We will make it easier for you by gathering the most happening Saudi Arabian destinations for your long weekend trip.

Riyadh

With iconic buildings filled in green lights and special events, Riyadh is geared up to celebrate the Saudi National Day. Riyadh is a thriving international destination that blends tradition and modern-day excitement. With popular landmarks and exciting activities, Riyadh promises unique cultural experiences. Here are some of the best attractions to get to know this vibrant destination.

• Kingdom Center
• Ad-Diriyah
• King Abdullah Park Fountain
• Al Faisaliyah Center
• Masmak Citadel

Dammam

With several popular landmarks and must-see places, Dammam is an iconic city in Saudi Arabia. Located in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia, Dammam takes pride of its beautiful islands, several monuments giving historical importance. Your trip to Dammam is incomplete without visiting these attractions.

• The Dammam Museum of Archaeology & Ethnography
• Dammam Corniche
• Al Marjan Island
• The Heritage Village
• Half Moon Bay

 

Jeddah

‘Jeddah ghair’ is an Arabic phrase means ‘Jeddah is different’ which is really true. With striking nighttime skyline, Jeddah is a beautiful city to explore. In contrary to misconceptions, the city offers a number of leisure activities to indulge. During your trip to Jeddah never miss visiting these attractions.

• Jeddah Waterfront
• Visit any of popular malls – Red Sea Mall, Mall of Arabia, Haifaa Mall etc.
• Athr Gallery
• King Fahd’s Fountain
• Al-Balad
• Jeddah’s floating mosque

 

Jizan

Jizan also spelled Jazan and pronounced as Gizan is a beautiful port city of Jizan Region. Those who are looking for a weekend vacay, Jizan is one best choice for its incredible natural wonders. Here are some must do activities when you visit this port city.

• Go for a swim at Wadi Lajab
• Don’t miss the nighttime stars
• Shop at traditional souks
• Dine a Jazan way
• Explore the beautiful FIFA mountains
• Visit hot water springs

Image source: roznamah.sa

 

Hail

Located in the mountains of Shammar, Hail is one of the most beautiful sites of the Kingdom. Hail is a valley that acts as a passage for Muslim pilgrims when they visit Makkah and Madinah. Hail Valley stretches around the Shammar Mountains and looks like a bow when seen on map. Your trip to Hail is incomplete without experiencing these activities.

• Visit Mud made homes
• Explore extinct volcanoes
• Purchase hand-woven items, pots, dates, and daggers as souvenirs.
• Hail Rally
• Visit Al Rajhi Mosque and Qishalah Castle