February 22 is observed annually in Saudi Arabia as Founding Day, honouring the creation of the first Saudi state almost three centuries ago. Observed as a paid public holiday across all sectors, the occasion reflects the Kingdom’s deep historical roots and national pride.
The day honours Muhammad bin Saud, who assumed leadership of Diriyah in 1727, laying the foundation of Saudi statehood. While National Day on September 23 commemorates the 1932 unification under King Abdulaziz, Founding Day looks back to the origins of the Kingdom’s history.
