Jeddah celebrates its founding day with heritage events and dazzling decorations
The city of Jeddah is preparing to celebrate Saudi National Day, which falls on February 22nd each year, with a comprehensive program of events organized by the municipality under the slogan "The Day We Began." The plan includes a wide range of activities and initiatives spanning several days, covering the city's most prominent landmarks, from main roads and squares to gates and parks, with the aim of highlighting the historical significance of this national occasion and enhancing its presence in the city's urban landscape.
Historical background and significance of the founding day
The Founding Day commemorates the establishment of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 CE, symbolizing the deep historical and cultural roots of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia spanning three centuries. A royal decree issued in January 2022 declared this day an official holiday, affirming pride in the state's deep-rooted history and the strong bond between citizens and their leaders. This occasion provides an opportunity to reflect on the nation's development, including the sacrifices and acts of heroism that accompanied it, and to embody the values of unity, stability, and authenticity upon which it was founded.
Decorations adorn Jeddah's landmarks
The municipality's plan includes installing decorative flags along streets and main thoroughfares, as well as displaying lights and artistic sculptures that reflect the spirit of the founding day. Jeddah's main gates will also be adorned with congratulatory messages that symbolize the occasion and create a festive atmosphere at the city's entrances. To unify the visual identity and widely publicize the event, screens and billboards on main roads will be used to display congratulatory messages, ensuring that the celebratory atmosphere reaches all residents and visitors of Jeddah.
Diverse field activities and their societal impact
The field events target key locations such as Globe Square, Al-Tahlia Square, and Al-Qanadil Square, in addition to King Abdulaziz Road, Palestine Street, and the Central Corniche. Prince Majid Park will host a variety of field events on February 22nd, including falconry, equestrian, and handicraft displays, as well as dedicated children's areas featuring face painting and henna. These activities offer a rich, interactive experience that reflects the historical and cultural dimensions of the Kingdom's founding day and contributes to strengthening community bonds. These celebrations are not merely entertainment; they also play a vital role in fostering national pride, supporting local artisans, and boosting domestic tourism, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to enhance quality of life and build a vibrant society.
In this context, Majid Al-Sulami, Director General of Community Service at the Municipality, explained that the Municipality was keen to prepare a comprehensive program that embodies the historical significance of the Founding Day and reinforces pride in national identity. He emphasized that the Municipality has dedicated all its technical and operational resources to implementing the events according to the highest standards, contributing to showcasing Jeddah in a festive manner befitting this cherished national occasion and allowing for broad participation from residents and visitors in the celebrations.
