Founding Day Seal: Saudi Interior Ministry Documents 3 Centuries of History
A national initiative to document history
In a symbolic gesture reflecting pride in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's rich history, the Ministry of Interior, represented by the General Directorate of Passports, announced the launch of a special stamp commemorating the Kingdom's founding day. This unique stamp will be affixed to the passports of those arriving in the Kingdom through its international ports of entry, in celebration of this national occasion which falls on February 22nd each year.
The seal's design carries profound historical significance, embodying the rich heritage of the Saudi state and its three centuries of heroism and glory. This initiative aims to solidify the importance of this day in the national consciousness and remind current and future generations of the solid foundations upon which the state was built.
The historical context of the founding day
The Founding Day commemorates the establishment of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 CE, with its capital at Diriyah. This date marks a pivotal turning point in the history of the Arabian Peninsula, as Imam Muhammad bin Saud laid the foundations for a centralized state that brought stability and prosperity to the region after centuries of fragmentation. This day was designated a national holiday by royal decree in 2022, a day to celebrate the deep roots of the state and its glorious history.
The founding day differs from the Kingdom's National Day, which is celebrated on September 23rd of each year and commemorates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in its modern form by the founding King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud – may God have mercy on him – in 1932. Thus, the founding day represents the beginning and the roots, while the National Day represents the completion of unity and modern development.
The importance and expected impact of the initiative
The significance of launching the Founding Day seal extends beyond its administrative function; it carries important cultural and diplomatic dimensions. Domestically, this seal reinforces a sense of national pride and belonging among citizens, connecting them tangibly to their history. Internationally, the seal offers visitors to the Kingdom from around the world an immediate glimpse into the country's rich cultural and historical heritage, serving as a cultural identity card that welcomes them and shares the story of its founding.
This initiative complements other national efforts to commemorate the occasion. Saudi Post, in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, issued a commemorative three-riyal postage stamp. These combined efforts underscore the significant importance of Founding Day, as it is an occasion to reflect on the journey of the nation, its leadership, and its people through its various stages, and to document the story of a nation whose history spans more than 300 years of glory and pride.
