Saudi Founders Day is a significant event that celebrates the rich history and cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Celebrating the founding of the first Saudi state in 1727, it honours the vision and resilience that shaped the nation. Across the country, various activities and events showcase traditions and historical milestones. Here are ten memorable activities to explore the essence of Saudi Arabia’s history and culture.
1. Founding Day Orchestra Performance
Celebrate Saudi Founding Day with a captivating orchestral performance by the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir, complemented by vibrant light and sound displays. Explore interactive stations featuring traditional arts, take unforgettable photos in the photography zone, and dive into national poetry, all within a festive and immersive atmosphere.
Where: King Fahad Cultural Center – Riyadh
When: February 22nd and 23rd
Cost: Starts at SAR100
2. Ithra
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture will host a celebration of Saudi Founding Day, offering a variety of cultural activities. Visitors can enjoy interactive workshops, live performances, and exhibits highlighting Saudi culture and traditions. Notable events include the ‘Founding Day Gift from the Factory,’ which promotes sustainable initiatives with Founding Day motifs, and the Children’s Museum’s ‘Naqwah,’ which features workshops and storytelling. The ‘Saudi Ardah’ performances will provide an excellent opportunity to celebrate the Kingdom’s rich history and traditions.
Where: Dammam- Saudi Arabia
When: February 21st and 22nd
Cost: No entry Fee
3. Al Ittihad Vs Al Hilal Roshn
Prepare for an exhilarating Saudi showdown as Al-Ittihad battles Al-Hilal in Round 21 of the Saudi Roshn League. This match is essential to the Saudi Founding Day celebrations, showcasing the country’s love for football and its deep sporting heritage. Be sure to book your ticket and take advantage of the exciting fan zone, which offers a variety of activities suitable for all ages.
Where: Alinma Stadium, Jeddah
When: February 22nd
Cost: SAR30 per person
4. Memory Of The Land – Riyadh
The ‘Memory of the Land’ festival in Riyadh highlights essential milestones in Saudi Arabia’s history with engaging activations. Visitors can explore various historical periods, revisiting moments that defined the nation. The event also includes live performances, plays, and fun activities for children, offering a complete cultural experience.
Where: Laysen Valley, Riyadh- Saudi Arabia
When: February 21st to 23rd
Cost: No entry Fee
5. AlUla Arts Festival
The AlUla Arts Festival, returning for its fourth edition, showcases a vibrant mix of exhibitions, shows, and activities in the Al Jadidah Arts District. This event celebrates contemporary and traditional art, featuring renowned international and local artists, offering unique perspectives honouring Saudi Arabia’s cultural legacy. It’s a perfect way to experience the creative evolution of the Kingdom while celebrating Saudi Founding Day’s history, culture, and traditions.
Where: Aljadidah, AlUla 43523, Saudi Arabia
When: February 21st to 22nd
Cost: No entry Fee
6. Al-Srraya
The festival offers visitors a unique journey through time, where they can explore the stories of Saudi Arabia’s founding and its historical milestones. Step into a mesmerising immersive experience that envelops you in a kaleidoscope of vibrant visuals, captivating sounds, and interactive sensory displays designed to delight visitors of all ages. This remarkable journey skillfully weaves elements from the past, present, and future, creating a rich tapestry that invites exploration and sparks imagination.
Where: Thanaya Al-Aula- Saudi Arabia
When: February 21st to 23rd
Cost: No entry Fee
7. Dates Festival
Discover the vibrant legacy of Al Ahsa’s dates, where tradition meets modernity. The festival showcases seven distinct sections and offers various activities to engage and entertain all visitors. It is a perfect celebration for Saudi Founding Day, honouring the Kingdom’s agricultural legacy and the timeless traditions that continue to shape its identity.
Where: Al Ahsa- Saudi Arabia
When: February 21st to 23rd
Cost: No entry Fee
8. Samar Night
Attendees can experience ‘Samar Night’ featuring the iconic Rabeh Saqr, offering a memorable evening where classic tunes seamlessly merge with contemporary sounds. The festival also presents a variety of outstanding activities, including live music, theatrical performances, art displays, and a special area for children, making it a fun-filled event for everyone.
Where: Mohammed Abdo Arena, Riyadh- Saudi Arabia
When: February 23rd
Cost: SAR200 per person
Also Read: There’s A New Music Festival Coming To Riyadh And It’s Called 1001 Music Festival!
9. Asfar Nights
Asfar Night presents a mesmerising performance by Abdul Majeed Abdullah, honouring Founding Day. The event beautifully showcases timeless melodies and iconic national songs, each resonating with the rich histories and experiences that shaped their ancestors’ journeys. Through these evocative sounds, it honours the traditions and stories that form the foundation of the nation’s cultural heritage.
Where: Mohammed Abdo Arena, Riyadh- Saudi Arabia
When: February 22nd
Cost: SAR200 per person
10. Diriyah
Embark on a historical journey, beginning with the founding of Diriyah in 850 AH. Engage in interactive experiences such as the ‘Land Restored Experience,’ highlighting Imam Turki bin Abdullah’s legacy, and the ‘Al-Manqiah Experience,’ commemorating the first military unit. Immerse yourself in the Kingdom’s past through dynamic indoor and outdoor activities, making this an ideal celebration of Saudi Arabia’s rich history, culture, and traditions on Founding Day.
Where: Diriyah – Saudi Arabia
When: Until February 25th
Cost: SAR 150 per person
By attending these Founding Day events, visitors celebrate the vision and resilience that have shaped Saudi Arabia and engage with the heart of its rich heritage.
Cover Image Courtesy: Visit Saudi and Canva Stock Images
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