Saudi Arabia observes its National Day on September 23 each year. It marks the anniversary of the unification of Najd and Hijaz into the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the hands of King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud, on September 23, 1932.
Under the slogan “We Dream and We Achieve,” Saudis will celebrate the 94th National Day by showcasing their accomplishments throughout the year in vibrant festivities across the Kingdom.
To mark the Saudi National Day, the Kingdom announced a long holiday, running from Friday, September 19, to Monday, September 23, 2024. All Saudi regions have started the celebrations, featuring parades, fireworks, music concerts, folklore shows and performances.
Fireworks Shows
Fireworks displays are essential feature of the National Day celebrations. All the Kingdom’s regions will hold fireworks shows during the National Day festivities. Umm Ajlan Park, in Riyadh, will host the biggest free fireworks show in Saudi Arabia, on September 22. The event will also feature a drone show and a folklore performance, according to Arab News.
Furthermore, Jeddah Promenade is hosting fireworks shows from Friday to Monday, at 6 pm. The celebrations will also include an amazing air show at Jeddah’s North Corniche.
Stunning Performances
Fontana Circus is set to give a dazzling performance at Nakheel Mall Riyadh, with its exceptional aerialists and mesmerizing musical and dancing fountain show.
Moreover, Jeddah Yacht Club and Jeddah Art Promenade will present performances for local bands, combining traditional and modern Saudi music, as well as a Saudi folklore show and a marine show on September 23.
The Club, in Al-Shallal Theme Park, will host an amazing musical show called “Shojaa,” which suits all family members. The show, running over three days from September 20-23, features music and storytelling that highlight the Saudi culture.
Cultural Celebrations
Jeddah’s Historic District will spotlight the culture of Saudi Arabia throughout the decades at the Tariq Abdulhakim Center. The center will organize museum tours, karaoke sessions, art workshops, and children’s activities, in addition to hosting an Arabic calligraphy booth, from September 21-24.
Additionally, Zawiya 97 in Jeddah’s Historic District will host a market (souq) for handicrafts on September 23. It will include handmade crafts for sale, as well as educational and cultural gifts.
King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Al Khobar will present a series of interactive cultural programs over three days to showcase the Kingdom’s rich heritage. This will include live performances, workshops, and exhibitions. It will also include performances of the traditional Saudi arts, such as Al Ardah Dance.
Open-air Festivities
The Azimuth Festival is taking place from September 19-21 at Wadi Al-Fann, in AlUla. The big event brings together international and regional artists. AlUla is also featuring a hot-air balloon experience to discover its ancient landscapes and heritage sites.
Moreover, AlUla offers the Sharaan Platinum Dinner Safari, a unique opportunity to tour the nature reserve, exploring its diverse species and ancient petroglyphs and rock formations. When the night arrives, a traditional South African braai, or barbecue, is held amid the lights of lanterns. Later, it features a stargazing session under the glowing desert sky.
