Today, February 22, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commemorates the anniversary of the founding of the first Saudi state in 1727, honoring the deep roots of the kingdom and the strong connection of its citizens with their leaders. This occasion is marked by various cultural, artistic, and popular events across the country's cities, reflecting the unity between the people and the wise leadership of the kingdom. The events also embody the glories, heroics, and heritage of the Saudi state, linking its prosperous present to its deep historical past rooted in the history of the Arabian Peninsula.
Foundation Day is a national celebration that recalls the journey of three centuries, evoking significant events and situations documented in history and biographies, making their marks across the Arabian Peninsula. The Saudi state is not a recent establishment; rather, it was formed over centuries, establishing a cohesive state that prioritized governance, community security, service to the Two Holy Mosques, and improving living conditions for citizens.
The Saudi state has undergone three foundational phases throughout its history. The first state was established over three centuries ago by Imam Muhammad bin Saud, who recorded numerous social, political, economic, and cultural achievements experienced by the people of the Arabian Peninsula at that time. Then, the second Saudi state was founded by Imam Turki bin Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Saud, which lasted until King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud established the third Saudi state in 1902, unifying it under the name of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. His royal descendants continued his approach in strengthening the unity and construction of the state until the reign of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense.
The revival of the first celebration of "Foundation Day" comes after a royal decree from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, issued last month, designating February 22 of each year as a day of remembrance for the founding of the state, making it an official holiday. On this occasion, the kingdom released a distinctive visual identity for Foundation Day under the slogan "Day We Started," featuring an icon of a man holding a flag, symbolizing the heroism and sacrifices of the Saudi men rallying around the flag, which has been protected throughout time to defend the homeland with wisdom, determination, and resolve.
