Saudi Arabia: National Day to be celebrated Sept. 23

Event

Saudi Arabia will celebrate National Day Sept. 23. The holiday will likely begin at the end of the workday Sept. 22. Police will likely deploy to monitor the celebrations. Business closures, transport disruptions, and delays are highly likely from Sept. 22-23.

Context

Saudi National Day commemorates the unification of the country by King Abdul Aziz Ibn Saud in 1932 and the renaming of the country from the Kingdom of Najd and Hijaz to Saudi Arabia. Prior to 1932, Saudi Arabia consisted of various dominions and tribes. Saudi National Day encourages national pride and has been celebrated annually since 2005. The holiday is celebrated with folk dances, songs, traditional festivals, fireworks, and other public events. Government buildings and public spaces are decorated with Saudi flags. People typically wear green to the celebrations.

Advice

Confirm all business appointments, as well as travel and hotel reservations. Plan for transport delays, especially if traveling through major cities.