Saudi Arabia will be celebrating its National Day with great pomp on September 23rd, marking the historic unification of the Kingdoms of Nejd and Hijaz under King Abdulaziz’s rule in 1932. This year, the celebrations promise an extended weekend, with Sunday, September 22nd, declared a holiday, leading into the National Day on a Monday. Both government and private sectors will observe this break, creating a long weekend for many, including students who will also have the day off according to the educational ministry’s schedule.
The nation will host a variety of events, including air shows and street performances, under the theme “We dream, We Achieve,” introduced by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA). This slogan not only celebrates this year’s national day but also reflects the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030, showcasing significant projects like THE LINE, the Sindalah Project, and the CEER Project.
As the festivities begin, streets throughout the Kingdom are adorned with flags and colorful decorations, setting the stage for a vibrant celebration. Local communities are gearing up to host various events that offer something for everyone, from fireworks and live performances to markets featuring traditional Saudi crafts. Individuals can dive into the spirit of the holiday by hosting private gatherings, themed around the national colors and offering a spread of traditional Saudi dishes. Public celebrations will also abound, with concerts and cultural showcases that provide a deep dive into the Kingdom’s rich heritage.
For those interested in the historical aspect of the holiday, it’s a perfect time to explore Saudi Arabia’s past through museum visits or archaeological tours, enriching the experience of National Day with educational undertones.
Remarkably, Saudi Arabia hosted over 100 million visitors in 2023, surpassing its Vision 2030 goal seven years early. In response, the country has adjusted its aspirations, aiming to attract 150 million tourists by the year 2030. Tourist activities peak around this time, with 2023 seeing an impressive influx of both local and international visitors, reflecting the country’s growing appeal as a global tourism destination. This surge is supported by robust spending in tourism, showcasing the economic impact of such national festivities.
Saudi National Day thus stands as a cornerstone of both celebration and economic vitality, symbolizing the unity and forward trajectory of the Kingdom.
Exploring Saudi Arabia: Top Tourist Destinations
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Riyadh:
The vibrant capital of Saudi Arabia, nestled in the Arabian Desert, encircled by rocky mountains and vast stretches of arid landscapes. This city stands as a beacon of modernity within the kingdom.*
Jeddah:
Situated on the Red Sea coast in the Hijaz region, Jeddah has long been a pivotal cultural and economic center in Saudi Arabia. It’s distinguished by its status as one of the main seaports in the Persian Gulf area.*
Dammam:
As the third-largest city in Saudi Arabia, Dammam boasts a population of 530,543 residents. It serves as the administrative center for the Dammam Governorate and lies 38 meters above sea level.*
Yanbu:
Yanbu claims the title of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Located about 160 kilometers east of Riyadh by a bay, it stands at an elevation of nearly 780 meters, offering a unique historical perspective.*
Taif:
Enclosed by steep valley walls, Taif provides a secluded oasis setting within the Arabian Peninsula. Known for its scorching temperatures, this city is at the geographical heart of Saudi Arabia, offering a lush, yet hot, escape.Saudi Arabia’s Top Airlines
* Saudia (also known as Saudi Arabian Airlines)
* Flynas
Top Airports in Saudi Arabia:
[List of top airports in Saudi Arabia]
Premier Luxury Accommodations in Saudi Arabia:
[List of premier luxury accommodations in Saudi Arabia]
