Riyadh, February 21, 2024, Tomorrow, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will joyously celebrate its Founding Day, an annual occasion observed on February 22, marked by vibrant cultural and artistic events expressing love, creativity, and loyalty. Across cities in the country, festivities are planned to pay homage to the rich history crafted by the leaders and remarkable citizens of this blessed land, who, through the ages, have carried the torch of progress.
These events will re-enact chapters of the nation's history, bringing to life the various stages of prosperity and adversity it has experienced. The celebrations will steadfastly embrace the Kingdom's authentic Arab identity, reinforcing the concept of national unity. Throughout these stages, the unwavering unity between the people and the leadership has been a defining characteristic, culminating in the current era of prosperity and progress driven by the Saudi Vision 2030.
The foundation of the first Saudi state was laid by the visionary Imam Mohammed bin Saud on a momentous day in the middle of 1139 AH, equivalent to February 1727. The establishment of this state in Al-Diriyah marked the beginning of a remarkable journey guided by the noble principles of the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him.
The Kingdom takes immense pride in the profound historical legacy left by Imam Mohammed bin Saud. The first Saudi state became a beacon of progress, witnessing extraordinary social, political, economic, and cultural events. From the reign of Imam Turki bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud, the founder of the second Saudi state, to the unification of the Kingdom under the leadership of the great unifier, King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al-Faisal Al-Saud, the Saudi nation has flourished.
King Abdulaziz, the Kingdom's unifier, played a pivotal role in its development, progress, and the attainment of its present-day internal, regional, and global standing. His sons and successors, including the current Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, have carried forward these prosperous times.
As the Founding Day is marked, reflections extend to the three centuries of the first Saudi state and the significant milestones in the nation's history. The landmarks formed over centuries have extended throughout the Arabian Peninsula, creating a nation prioritizing security, servicing the Two Holy Mosques, and the well-being of its people, overcoming numerous challenges along the way.
The profound and unwavering national cohesion has been the driving force of the enduring Saudi state from 1727 to the present
