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About Saudi National Day

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About Saudi National Day

Saudi National Day, Al Yaum Al Watani, is celebrated on 23 September. It marks the unification of the kingdom and the naming of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932.

Cities glow green: buildings, streets and cars are decorated with flags and lights. There are fireworks, air shows, concerts, traditional dances such as the ardah and heritage events across the kingdom.

Families go out together, wear green and share coffee, dates and festive meals, and residents from many countries join in the celebration.

  • 23 September
  • Unification, 1932
  • Public holiday since 2005

Where it began

Abdulaziz Al Saud recovered Riyadh in 1902 and over the next thirty years brought many regions together. On 23 September 1932, a royal decree named the united lands the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The national day honours that union. The green flag carries the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, and a sword.

Waving green flags on the night of National DaySaudi Arabia

How it grew over time

  1. 1902

    Abdulaziz Al Saud recovered Riyadh.

  2. 1932

    The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was named on 23 September.

  3. 2005

    National Day became an official public holiday.

  4. Today

    Cities hold fireworks, air shows and cultural events.

How it is celebrated in different places

  • Riyadh

    Large crowds enjoy fireworks, shows and lit buildings.

  • Jeddah

    The Corniche hosts fireworks and family gatherings by the sea.

  • Across the kingdom

    Streets and cars are decorated in green and white.

Saudi National Day moments

A jet in national green on show for the 95th National DaySaudi Arabia
An old mud-brick fort in the heart of RiyadhRiyadh, Saudi Arabia
The north side of Riyadh, the capitalRiyadh, Saudi Arabia
Riyadh's Boulevard City lit up for an evening outRiyadh, Saudi Arabia

Saudi National Day today

People wear green, wave flags and enjoy traditional dances such as the ardah. Families go out together to see fireworks and light shows.

Shops and cafes hold special offers and decorate in national colours.

How people celebrate Saudi National Day

  • Green lights and flags
  • Fireworks and air shows
  • Traditional ardah dance
  • Heritage events
  • Wearing green
  • Coffee, dates and family outings

How to wish well

  • In Arabic people say "كل عام والوطن بخير" (Every year, may the nation be well). In English, "Happy Saudi National Day".
  • Messages about pride, unity and gratitude suit everyone; avoid politics.
  • Founding Day, on 22 February, is a different holiday.

Questions about Saudi National Day

When is Saudi National Day?

On 23 September every year.

What does Saudi National Day celebrate?

The unification of the kingdom and its naming as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932.

What do you say on Saudi National Day?

"كل عام والوطن بخير" or "Happy Saudi National Day".

Is Founding Day the same as National Day?

No. Founding Day on 22 February remembers the first Saudi state in 1727. National Day is 23 September.

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