Saudi Arabia celebrates its 93rd National Day today with a burst of national pride, grand festivities, and a dazzling display of unity that brought the nation together to commemorate its rich heritage and achievements.
On this historic occasion, streets across the Kingdom are adorned with distinctive green flags.
At the same time, citizens and residents join the festivities, expressing their love for the country with traditional dances, cultural exhibitions, and a spectacular fireworks show.
The heart of the National Day celebrations is expected to occur in the capital city, Riyadh, where various events unfolded throughout the day.
The King Abdulaziz Historical Center transformed into a hub of cultural exhibitions, showcasing the Kingdom’s history, art, and diverse traditions.
Visitors are in for a treat with displays of ancient artefacts and artistic creations that reflect Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage.
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On Saudi National Day, crowds usually gather in Riyadh’s iconic Al-Masmak Fortress, where a traditional souq (market) offers a glimpse into the Kingdom’s trading history.
Merchants sell local handicrafts, spices, and traditional attire. Food stalls serve mouthwatering Saudi delicacies, providing visitors with a culinary journey through the nation’s diverse flavours.
The highlight of the evening is the stunning fireworks display illuminating the Riyadh skyline.
Families and friends gathered in parks, along the bustling streets, and at designated viewing areas to witness the spectacle. The show is synchronised with captivating music and light effects that leave spectators in awe.
Saudi Arabian citizens, expatriates, and tourists are invited to celebrate the Kingdom’s progress, unity, and cultural diversity.
A Timeline of Saudi Arabian History
Pre-Islamic Period:
- 3rd millennium BCE: Settlements and trade routes in the Arabian Peninsula.
- 7th century BCE: Ancient kingdoms like the Kingdom of Lihyan and the Kingdom of Nabataea rose.
- 6th century CE: The birth of Islam in the Arabian Peninsula with the prophethood of Muhammad.
Islamic Caliphates:
- 7th century CE: Expansion of Islamic rule across the Arabian Peninsula.
- 8th century CE: The Umayyad and Abbasid Caliphates govern the Arabian Peninsula.
- 10th-16th centuries CE: The rise of various Islamic empires, including the Fatimids, Ayyubids, and Ottomans.
First Saudi State:
- 18th century CE: Muhammad bin Saud formed an alliance with religious leader Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, leading to the establishment of the First Saudi State in Diriyah.
- 1818: Egyptian forces, with Ottoman support, defeat and destroy Diriyah, ending the First Saudi State.
Second Saudi State:
- 1824: Turki bin Abdullah established the Second Saudi State in Najd.
- 1891: The Rashidi dynasty defeated the Saudis, leading to the fall of the Second Saudi State.
Unification:
- 1902: Abdulaziz Ibn Saud captures Riyadh, marking the beginning of the third attempt to establish a Saudi state.
- 1932: Abdulaziz Ibn Saud officially declared the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with Riyadh as the capital.
20th Century:
- 1938: Discovery of oil in Dhahran transforms the Saudi economy.
- 1953: Abdulaziz Ibn Saud passes away, and his son Saud takes the throne.
- 1964: King Saud is replaced by King Faisal due to concerns over his leadership.
Late 20th and 21st Century:
- 1982: King Fahd introduces the Basic Law, a constitution outlining the governance of Saudi Arabia.
- 2005: King Abdullah ascends the throne, initiating various social and economic reforms.
- 2015: King Salman takes the throne and continues reforms, including Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy.
- 2017: Women are granted the right to drive in Saudi Arabia.
- 2018: Saudi Arabia hosts its first public cinema screening in decades.
- 2023: Saudi Arabia is inducted into the BRICS Bloc
