The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Saudi Founding Day
What Is the Difference Between Saudi Founding Day and Saudi National Day?
The Cultural Significance of Saudi Founding Day
SANDS UAE Celebrates Saudi Founding Day
Inside the SANDS Saudi Founding Day Collection
Saudi Founding Day 2026
MOFA Marks Saudi Founding Day
Frequently Asked Questions
Collection
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia occupies a defining position in the Arab and Islamic world, both geographically and historically. Situated at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, the Kingdom has long served as a center of trade, culture, and spiritual significance. It is home to Islam’s two holiest cities, Makkah and Madinah, making it a focal point for millions of pilgrims each year and a nation deeply rooted in faith and tradition.
Saudi Arabia’s identity is shaped by centuries of tribal heritage, leadership, and resilience across the Arabian Peninsula. From its early foundations to its modern transformation, the Kingdom has maintained a strong cultural fabric built on unity, hospitality, and continuity. Today, while preserving its history and values, Saudi Arabia is also embracing a period of unprecedented development. Through Vision 2030, the country is advancing across sectors including culture, tourism, sports, luxury hospitality, and global investment, positioning itself as a dynamic force on the international stage while remaining anchored in its historical legacy.
Saudi Founding Day
Observed annually on February 22, Saudi Founding Day commemorates the establishment of the First Saudi State in 1727. The occasion honors the deep historical roots of the Kingdom and celebrates nearly three centuries of leadership, unity, and national identity.
The Historical Foundations of the Saudi State
The roots of the Saudi state trace back to 1727, when Imam Muhammad bin Saud established governance in Diriyah, a settlement in the Najd region of the Arabian Peninsula. At the time, the region consisted of fragmented communities and tribal territories. Diriyah quickly emerged as a center of political stability, economic activity, and social organization.
The First Saudi State developed structured systems of leadership, justice, and security that strengthened internal stability and regional influence. Its strategic location allowed Diriyah to become an important hub for trade routes crossing the Arabian Peninsula, contributing to economic growth and cultural exchange.
Despite political challenges that led to its conclusion in 1818, the foundations established in Diriyah created a model of governance that endured. The Second Saudi State was formed in 1824, reaffirming the leadership of the Al Saud family and restoring political order in the region. These successive states laid the groundwork for the eventual unification of the Kingdom in the 20th century.
Today, Diriyah holds profound historical importance, with the At Turaif district recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing the birthplace of the Saudi state and the origins of nearly three centuries of leadership.
The Cultural Significance of Saudi Founding Day
Beyond its historical importance, Saudi Founding Day is a celebration of identity, heritage, and national pride. The occasion highlights the cultural foundations that shaped the Kingdom, from early Najdi traditions to the values of unity, resilience, and leadership that continue to define Saudi society today.
Symbols associated with Founding Day reflect elements of strength, continuity, and belonging. Across the Kingdom, citizens wear traditional attire inspired by the 18th century, while cultural institutions, schools, and public spaces host exhibitions that revive poetry, architecture, craftsmanship, and customs from the early years of the Saudi state.
More than a historical commemoration, Founding Day serves as a reminder of the Kingdom’s enduring narrative, one that connects past generations to the ambitions of the present and the vision of the future.
Inside the SANDS Saudi Founding Day Collection
The SANDS Saudi Founding Day Collection brings together some of the world’s most respected luxury houses in a curation that reflects heritage, craftsmanship, and timeless style. Each piece is carefully selected by the SANDS personal shopping concierge to honor the significance of the occasion.
The collection features refined essentials from Loro Piana and the iconic travel pieces of Goyard. Hermès holds a central presence with sought after Birkin and Kelly bags, alongside Oran sandals and Chypre styles that remain modern classics. Rolex timepieces complete the edit, representing precision, legacy, and lasting value.
Through this exclusive selection, SANDS celebrates Saudi Founding Day with pieces that embody tradition, prestige, and enduring luxury.
Saudi Founding Day 2026
Saudi Founding Day 2026 marks the fourth year since the occasion was officially established as a national holiday in 2022. Introduced by Royal Decree, the day was created to formally honor the founding of the First Saudi State in 1727 and to recognize the Kingdom’s deep historical roots.
Now in its fourth year of official observance, Founding Day continues to strengthen national pride and awareness of Saudi Arabia’s enduring legacy. Each year, the commemoration reinforces the connection between the Kingdom’s origins in Diriyah and its dynamic presence on the global stage today.
MOFA Marks Saudi Founding Day
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia highlights Saudi Founding Day as a defining moment in the Kingdom’s history, honoring its origins in 1727 and the enduring legacy of its leadership. Through official messages and global diplomatic missions, MOFA underscores the significance of the occasion in reflecting Saudi Arabia’s heritage, unity, and continued presence on the international stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Saudi Founding Day?
Saudi Founding Day is a national occasion observed on February 22 each year. It commemorates the establishment of the First Saudi State in 1727 by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in Diriyah, marking the historical roots of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
When was Saudi Founding Day officially established?
Saudi Founding Day was officially declared a national holiday in 2022 by Royal Decree. The decision was made to honor the Kingdom’s nearly three centuries of history and distinguish it from Saudi National Day.
What is the difference between Saudi Founding Day and Saudi National Day?
Saudi Founding Day celebrates the founding of the First Saudi State in 1727, while Saudi National Day, observed on September 23, marks the unification of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932 by King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud.
Why is Saudi Founding Day important?
Saudi Founding Day is important because it highlights the deep historical foundations, leadership, and cultural identity of the Kingdom. It reflects the continuity of the Saudi state and honors its journey from Diriyah to its current global standing.
