Saudi Arabia is preparing to celebrate its 96th National Day later this month, with a public holiday giving workers across the kingdom an extended break for the annual festivities.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced that Wednesday, September 23, will be a holiday for employees in both the public and private sectors. The date falls on Rabi Al Thani 12, 1448 in the Islamic calendar.
The National Day marks the establishment of modern Saudi Arabia under King Abdulaziz. September 23 commemorates the day in 1932 when the country’s name was officially changed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, following the unification of its regions.
The annual occasion has become one of the kingdom’s biggest national celebrations, with events taking place in cities and communities across the country.
Residents and visitors can expect a wide range of activities, including fireworks, air shows, concerts, traditional performances and family events. Parades and live entertainment are also regularly organised, while museums, heritage villages and cultural centres hold special programmes highlighting Saudi history and traditions.
The celebrations are often accompanied by a distinctive display of national pride. In the days surrounding National Day, streets, buildings and public spaces across the kingdom are decorated and illuminated in green, reflecting the colour of the Saudi flag.
Major cities typically host some of the largest events, attracting families and visitors to public spaces for evening entertainment and fireworks displays. Shopping centres, restaurants and entertainment venues also take part in the celebrations with special offers and themed activities.
Last year’s 95th National Day featured large-scale celebrations, including aerial displays, naval demonstrations and spectacular fireworks. The events drew large crowds as Saudi Arabia marked another year since the founding of the modern kingdom.
This year’s holiday will provide workers with an opportunity to take part in National Day activities and spend time with family and friends.
The occasion also comes as Saudi Arabia continues to promote its cultural heritage and national identity through major public events. National Day celebrations have increasingly combined traditional customs with large entertainment programmes, creating events designed to appeal to both Saudi citizens and international residents.
With September 23 approaching, preparations are expected to increase across the kingdom as authorities, businesses and entertainment organisers get ready for the nationwide celebrations.
