Saudi Founding Day falls on February 22 each year and commemorates February 1727, when Imam Muhammad bin Saud established the first Saudi state with its capital in Diriyah. Declared an official national holiday in 2022, it was celebrated for the first time in 2023 — giving Saudi Arabia two national days: Founding Day in February and National Day on September 23, which marks the 1932 unification of the modern Kingdom. In 2026, the holiday enters its fourth year.
Founding Day vs National Day: what is the difference
Saudi Arabia now has two official national days, and they tell different parts of the same story.
| Founding Day | National Day | |
|---|---|---|
| Date | February 22 | September 23 |
| Marks | First Saudi state founded, 1727 | Unification of the modern Kingdom, 1932 |
| Public holiday since | 2023 | 1965 |
| Character | Origins, heritage, historical dress | Unity, flags and national celebration |
Founding Day looks backward to origins; National Day celebrates the modern state. Both are full public holidays, so schools, government offices and most private companies close on each.
The history in brief
Founding Day commemorates February 1727, when Imam Muhammad bin Saud took leadership of Diriyah and established what became the first Saudi state. From that power base, the state expanded across much of the Arabian Peninsula and lasted until 1818.
The second Saudi state followed in 1824, centered on Riyadh, and endured until 1891. In 1932, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud unified the remaining territories into the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia — the event National Day marks every September 23.
The three-state story is why Founding Day matters to Saudis as more than a second day off: it frames the Kingdom as a state with three centuries of continuity, not one born in the 20th century.
Traditional clothing and celebrations
Founding Day is the most visible heritage holiday on the Saudi calendar. Celebrations feature historical reenactments, traditional music and cultural performances — including large-scale operetta productions that stage scenes from the founding era in period dress.
Traditional clothing takes center stage. Men wear regional styles: the Najdi thobe and headdress of central Arabia, the lighter Hijazi styles of the west coast, and the bisht, the cloak worn over the thobe on formal occasions. Women’s regional dress varies just as much, from Najdi embroidery to Hijazi fabrics. Schools and workplaces often encourage historical dress for the day, and Riyadh’s markets see a run on traditional garments every February.
Diriyah — the historic mud-brick capital district northwest of central Riyadh — hosts the flagship events, with At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010, as the natural stage for them. Jeddah and the Eastern Province run their own programs of heritage villages, craft markets and performances.
What the holiday means for expats in 2026
If you live in Saudi Arabia, February 22, 2026 is a public holiday: banks, government offices and most schools close, and many private companies follow the official calendar. Check your employer’s schedule early.
The celebrations are open to everyone. Riyadh hosts the largest program, centered on Diriyah, and it is the single best day of the year to see historical reenactments and traditional performances without planning a special trip. Expect crowds and book any dinner reservations or transport well in advance — February 22 is one of Riyadh’s busiest evenings.
If you are new to the Kingdom, the holiday doubles as a fast introduction to Saudi history (Life in Saudi Arabia for expats: the complete guide). Heritage exhibitions and museum programs run through the Founding Day week, and they explain the 1727–1932 story far better than any guidebook.
FAQ
When is Saudi Founding Day?
February 22 every year. It marks February 1727, when Imam Muhammad bin Saud founded the first Saudi state with its capital in Diriyah.
Is Founding Day a public holiday in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. It was declared an official holiday in 2022 and first celebrated in 2023, so 2026 is the fourth edition.
What is the difference between Founding Day and National Day?
Founding Day, on February 22, marks the 1727 founding of the first Saudi state. National Day, on September 23, marks the 1932 unification of the modern Kingdom.
Why does Founding Day use the date 1727?
That is when Imam Muhammad bin Saud assumed leadership in Diriyah, the event historians use as the founding of the first Saudi state.
What do people wear on Founding Day?
Traditional regional dress: Najdi thobes and bishts in central Arabia, lighter Hijazi styles in the west, and historical period dress at reenactments and cultural performances.
Where are the main Founding Day celebrations?
Riyadh hosts the flagship events at Diriyah, including the At-Turaif UNESCO site, with additional programs in Jeddah and the Eastern Province.
One last thing
If you only do one thing on Founding Day, visit At-Turaif in Diriyah. It is the actual birthplace of the first Saudi state, UNESCO-listed since 2010, and on February 22 it becomes the most atmospheric history lesson in the Kingdom.
Related guides
Mehwish is a writer at Saudi Scoop, a professional digital marketer, and an SEO expert. With a passion for crafting impactful content, she combines marketing expertise with storytelling to engage audiences and drive results.