By P.A. Hameed Padubidri – KSA

When I began writing about Saudi Founding Day, I felt it was important to clarify its correct official usage. Many mistakenly refer to it as “Saudi Foundation Day.” However, the accurate and officially adopted term is Saudi Founding Day, as it commemorates the establishment of a state rather than a structural foundation. In Arabic, it is known as Yaum al-Ta’asees.

The observance was officially declared by Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud through Royal Decree No. A/371 on January 27, 2022 (24/6/1443H), designating February 22 each year as a national public holiday. The first celebration took place on the memorable date 22-02-2022, marking the beginning of a commemoration that reflects on nearly three centuries of history.

The Historical Anchor

Founding Day traces its roots to 1727, when Muhammad bin Saud established the First Saudi State in Diriyah. As someone who has lived in the Kingdom and closely observed its development, I see this commemoration as more than a historical reminder. It reshapes public understanding by emphasizing that Saudi Arabia’s story did not begin in 1932 with the unification led by Abdulaziz Al Saud, but extends back to a deeper legacy of governance and unity.

This historical perspective strengthens national confidence. It conveys that the Kingdom’s stability is not recent; rather, it is rooted in centuries of leadership and resilience.

Heritage in the Age of Transformation

What stands out most is that as the country advances rapidly toward modernization, it has simultaneously deepened its attachment to its origins. Economic growth, technological expansion, and global engagement are occurring alongside the revival of traditional attire, Najdi architectural identity, and renewed attention to the historical significance of Diriyah.

In my observation, this is neither symbolic nostalgia nor superficial celebration. It reflects intentional nation-building aligned closely with Saudi Vision 2030, where development and cultural preservation function as complementary forces rather than opposing ones.

On Founding Day, families wear traditional clothing, schools educate children about early statehood, and young Saudis express pride in a history spanning three centuries. The faster the transformation, the stronger the visible connection to cultural roots.

Confidence for the Future

The distinction between Founding Day and National Day is significant. National Day marks political unification, whereas Founding Day commemorates the birth of the state itself. This deeper historical reference adds maturity and depth to national identity.

Personally, witnessing these developments has been inspiring. Saudi Arabia today stands confidently on the global stage while remaining grounded in its traditions. Under the leadership of Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom continues to redefine progress—not by distancing itself from history, but by building upon it.

Saudi Founding Day symbolizes continuity. It honors the vision of Imam Muhammad bin Saud, acknowledges the unification achieved by King Abdulaziz, and connects that legacy to a transformative present.

In Saudi Arabia’s journey, modernization is not detached from heritage; it grows from it. This is what makes Founding Day not merely a commemoration of the past, but a confident statement for the future.