Preparations for Jeddah's 2024 Founding Day at Prince Majid Park
Intensive preparations are underway in Jeddah to celebrate the founding day
Jeddah is preparing to celebrate Saudi National Day with a distinctive national atmosphere. Al-Youm newspaper captured the final preparations at Prince Majid Park, the city's largest park, which will serve as a central hub for the events. The park has been transformed into an open cultural and heritage space, designed to offer visitors, both citizens and residents, a unique experience that blends historical charm with entertainment, reflecting pride in the deep-rooted history of the Saudi state, spanning three centuries.
Historical background and significance of the founding day
Saudis celebrate Founding Day on February 22nd each year, commemorating the establishment of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 in its capital, Diriyah. This national occasion was officially adopted by royal decree in 2022, aiming to highlight the Kingdom's historical and cultural depth, strengthen the connection of current generations to their ancestors' history, and celebrate the nation-building process that laid the foundations for security and stability in the Arabian Peninsula. Founding Day differs from National Day, which falls on September 23rd and celebrates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the modern era.
A variety of events blending heritage and entertainment
The events held at Prince Majid Park include a variety of heritage activities that evoke authentic aspects of the past. Dedicated areas feature Arabian horse shows and falconry displays, symbols embodying the values of chivalry, courage, and pride associated with the Kingdom's history. Interactive spaces have also been set up for traditional crafts, such as palm frond weaving and henna painting, introducing visitors, especially youth and children, to the rich cultural heritage. On the cultural front, the "Founding Day" exhibition presents a visual narrative of the Saudi state's journey, supported by a photo zone themed around the occasion, allowing visitors to capture their celebratory moments. Organizers have also included a dedicated children's area with recreational activities, interactive programs, and souvenirs, designed to instill a sense of national pride in children in an engaging way.
Local and regional impact of the celebrations
These celebrations hold immense importance locally, strengthening national unity and deepening pride in Saudi identity. They also contribute to achieving the goals of Vision 2030 by enriching the tourism and entertainment sectors and attracting visitors from across the Kingdom. Regionally and internationally, showcasing this historical depth presents a comprehensive image of Saudi Arabia as a nation with a rich cultural heritage alongside its modern standing, thus enhancing its soft power and cultural appeal.
Municipal efforts to ensure the success of events
In this context, the Director General of Community Service at the Jeddah Municipality, Mr. Majid Omar Al-Sulami, explained that the municipality was keen to prepare a comprehensive program reflecting the historical significance of the founding day. He emphasized that the municipality dedicated all its technical and operational resources to implementing the events according to the highest standards, ensuring that Jeddah is presented in a celebratory manner befitting this cherished national occasion, and allowing for broad participation from residents and visitors in an integrated experience that blends knowledge and entertainment in a civilized environment open to all segments of society.
