The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrates the annual Founding Day on February 22nd, commemorating the establishment of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. This celebration embodies pride in the deep-rooted foundations of the Saudi state and the strong bond between citizens and their leaders and historical symbols.
In this context, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman emphasized in his Founding Day speech that “Founding Day is a cherished memory in our hearts, as we recall the beginning of the establishment of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud three centuries ago, and draw inspiration from the values and principles upon which this blessed state was founded.”
Historian Dr. Abdullah bin Saleh Al-Othaimeen stated: “Founding Day is a precious national occasion for Saudis, as they recall their rich history and civilization, and take pride in their leaders who founded and preserved this great state generation after generation.”
According to official statistics, this year’s Founding Day celebrations in all regions of the Kingdom included over 3,500 events and activities, attended by millions of citizens and residents. Historical sites and museums also witnessed a large turnout of visitors eager to learn about the Kingdom’s rich history and heritage.
In the chronological sequence of the establishment of the Saudi state, Imam Muhammad bin Saud founded the first Saudi state in Diriyah in 1727, which lasted until 1818. Then, the second Saudi state was established by Imam Turki bin Abdullah bin Muhammad Al Saud in 1824, lasting until 1891. Finally, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded by King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud in 1932, which is the third state we live under today.
On this precious national occasion, Saudi citizens renew their pride in their country’s history and civilization, and their pride in their leaders who have preserved the unity and stability of this blessed state since its establishment three centuries ago. They also affirm their commitment to their deeply rooted national identity and their continuation of the path of construction and development under the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and his Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz.