Check out: Saudi Founding Day brings in long list of celebratory events and heavy discounts

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed have congratulated Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the Saudi Founding Day.

Other Arab leaders have also sent congratulatory messages on the annual occasion. Saudi Arabia is celebrating its Founding Day on February 22, a public holiday established in 2022 that pays homage to the Kingdom’s rich history.

What's the difference between Foundation Day and National Day?

Foundation Day 🇸🇦
– Falls on February 22nd of each year.
– Commemorates the founding of the first Saudi state in 1727 by Imam Muhammad bin Saud, may God have mercy on him.
– Capital: Diriyah 💚

National Day 🇸🇦
-… pic.twitter.com/Re6gU5AQnx

— منصور الختيلي (@alkhitaili) February 20, 2024

Saudi Founding Day: Events to keep an eye out for

The Day is being celebrated across the country through vivid cultural and artistic events, military performances and air shows. Employees have got an extended weekend with three days off starting from Thursday to Saturday. Students have also got Thursday as a day off.

The occasion commemorates the founding of the Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. The ruler oversaw the expansion of the state and repelled attacks from eastern Arabian armies and also fought an outbreak of plague among the population.

The many events organised by the Ministry of Culture, including Founding Nights, Symphony of the Beginning, Path of History and Founding Village, will be held across Saudi Arabia until February 26. Other festivities involve fireworks and traditional dancing, among others.

Looking for promising bargains this long weekend?

People looking for Saudi Founding Day discounts are also in luck as several businesses, such as airlines, hotels, restaurants and cafes, are offering lucrative promotions and discounts of up to 85% to mark the annual celebration.

The Ministry of Commerce has allowed commercial establishments to issue discount licences through a special online platform – sales.mc.gov.sa – until the end of February 28. Interested consumers can verify the discounts by scanning the relevant barcode.