Saudi Founding Day Celebrated as Arab Nations Send Congratulations to Kingdom’s Leadership
Saudi Arabia marked the 299th anniversary of its Founding Day on Sunday, a celebration of the establishment of the First Saudi State by Imam Muhammed bin Saud in 1727. Across the Kingdom, events and festivities honored three centuries of history, unity, and development.
From across the Arab world, messages of congratulations poured in for King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reflecting the deep bonds between the Kingdom and its regional partners.
A Chorus of Congratulations
King Mohammed VI of Morocco extended his warm wishes to the Saudi leadership and people, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two kingdoms. The Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, commended Saudi Arabia’s “significant role in ensuring security and stability, and in promoting peace in the region,” according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman sent his greetings, reinforcing the strong neighborly ties between the two Gulf nations. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also congratulated the leadership, taking the opportunity to note Saudi Arabia’s steadfast support for the Palestinian people and its diplomatic efforts—including helping secure recognition of a Palestinian state by France and the United Kingdom in September.
On Saturday, the Saudi leadership had already received congratulations from King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa of Bahrain and Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar, setting the stage for Sunday’s broader regional outreach.
Founding Day: A Celebration of Heritage
Founding Day commemorates the establishment of the First Saudi State in Diriyah, a moment that laid the foundation for the unity, security, and cultural identity that have defined the Kingdom through centuries. Unlike National Day, which marks the unification of the modern Kingdom, Founding Day honors the deeper roots—the origins of Saudi rule and the vision that began nearly three centuries ago.
Across the country, celebrations include cultural performances, traditional music and dance, historical exhibitions, and displays of Saudi craftsmanship. Citizens and residents alike participate in events that connect them to their heritage, wearing traditional dress, preparing ancestral dishes, and sharing stories passed down through generations.
A Message of Unity and Progress
The messages from Arab leaders underscore Saudi Arabia’s central role in the region. Sheikh Meshaal’s praise for the Kingdom’s efforts in ensuring stability and promoting peace reflects a recognition shared across the Arab world: that Saudi Arabia’s strength contributes to regional security, and its prosperity benefits neighbors near and far.
President Abbas’s mention of Palestinian recognition efforts highlights the Kingdom’s continued commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause—a consistent thread in Saudi foreign policy for decades.
Looking to the 300th
As Saudi Arabia approaches its 300th Founding Day next year, the celebrations take on added significance. The milestone will mark three centuries since the First Saudi State’s establishment—a legacy of continuity, resilience, and ambition that continues to shape the Kingdom’s present and future.
For now, Saudis celebrate their Founding Day with pride, joined by Arab nations that recognize the occasion’s importance. The greetings from regional leaders serve as reminders of the bonds that unite the Arab world—bonds of history, faith, and shared aspirations for peace and prosperity.
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