From concerts to dining deals, here’s where to spend the national holiday and long weekend.
Saudi Founding Day is one of the most important celebrations in the kingdom. The day falls on 22 February each year. Festivities take place across the country with special events including concerts, exhibitions and fireworks.
King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud declared Saudi Founding Day a public holiday in 2021, and it is now observed each year. This year, there will be not one but two days off.
So, look out for special offers across shopping malls, cafés and restaurants. Plus, one-off cultural events, from concerts to exhibitions, many of which are announced closer to the time. Here are the best things to do on Saudi Founding Day and the long weekend. Happy Saudi Founding Day.
At-Turaif Cultural Program
Embark on a journey through time at the At-Turaif Cultural Program. Set within the walls of this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll be transported back in time through cultural programs and live storytelling. Witness history come to life through workshops introducing traditional building techniques and ancient Diriyah doors.
GO: Visit www.diriyah.sa for more information.
Cultural nights at Diplomatic Quarter
Step into the charm of the heritage souq at Cultural Nights in Diplomatic Quarter’s Alkindi Plaza, where tradition comes to life in every corner. Enjoy authentic traditional flavours and folk performances, and relax in the warmth of traditional tents. With interactive activities for all ages, it’s a night worth remembering.
GO: Visit www.dqevents.rcrc.gov.sa for more information.
Diriyah Nights
Diriyah Nights runs throughout Ramadan this year. The event is part of Diriyah Season, which showcases international sports and entertainment events. Visitors can watch traditional performances, shop for famous brands, and dine at fine-dining restaurants and cafés. The restaurants include Greek eats at Okto, Middle Eastern food at Shababik, traditional Saudi dishes at Tawlat Fayza, and Japanese cuisine at Yokari.
GO: Visit https://diriyahseason.sa for more information.
Historic March in Diriyah
Attending the Historic March in Diriyah is one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate Saudi Founding Day. As the birthplace of the First Saudi State in 1727, Diriyah transforms into a stage where history comes to life. The grand parade features dramatic historical reenactments portraying key moments in the founding of the Saudi state, alongside performances and traditional music. Performers dressed in period costumes march through the streets while narrators recount the Kingdom’s early beginnings.
GO: Visit www.diriyah.sa for more information.
Khobar Corniche
For a day of fun, visit the Khobar Corniche. With stunning sea views, recreational activities, and dining options, it’s the perfect spot for families and couples to unwind and create cherished memories on the shores of the Arabian Gulf.
GO: Visit https://welcomesaudi.com for more information.
Ithra Founding Day Celebration
Get creative at the Ithra Founding Day Celebration, featuring engaging workshops, captivating live performances, and immersive exhibits that highlight the beauty of Saudi heritage and craftsmanship. The event titled, The Day We Began, will also host a Najdi Majlis Experience, making a great way to celebrate Saudi Founding Day and Ramadan.
GO: Visit www.ithra.com for more information.
Memory of the Home Exhibition
At the National Museum in Riyadh, the Memory of the Home exhibit offers a thoughtful and interactive cultural experience for Saudi Founding Day. Through shadow theatre, storytelling, and immersive installations, the exhibition reflects on the meaning of home and identity throughout Saudi history.
GO: Visit https://engage.moc.gov.sa for more information.
Old Town After Dark
Immerse yourself in the enchanting memories of Old Town in AlUla. Follow expert guides through ancient passageways, soaking in tales of the past. Cap off the journey with a candlelit dinner atop the majestic AlUla Fort, offering breathtaking views and local flavours – a perfect way to spend Saudi Founding Day.
GO: Visit www.experiencealula.com for more information.
Qasr Al Hukum in Riyadh
A visit to Qasr Al Hukum offers an authentic Founding Day experience. The historic district comes alive with traditional Ardah performances, where men in ceremonial attire perform the Kingdom’s iconic sword dance to the rhythm of drums and poetic chants. Falconry zones, decor, cultural booths, and festive gatherings are also part of the agenda.
GO: Visit www.rcrc.gov.sa for more information.
Riyadh Season
Riyadh Season may be hitting its final weeks, but it hasn’t lost any of its steam. If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, then put this festival on your radar. Now in its fifth edition, Riyadh Season takes over the whole city. The festival welcomes A-listers, from celebrity chefs to singing sensations and new experiences.
GO: Visit https://riyadhseason.sa for more information.
Six Flags Qiddiya City
Six Flags Qiddiya City is the ultimate destination for thrill seekers, adrenaline junkies and families seeking fun and entertainment. The new theme park features a lineup of record-breaking rides. Highlights include Sirocco Tower (the world’s tallest free-standing shot tower ride), Gyropsin (the world’s tallest pendulum ride), Spitfire (the world’s tallest inverted top hat coaster) and Iron Rattler (the world’s tallest tilt coaster). Headlining it all is Falcon’s Flight, billed as the world’s longest, tallest and fastest coaster. The park has a special entry offer for Saudi Founding Day.
GO: Visit https://sixflagsqiddiyacity.com for more information.
