Saudi National Day, observed every year on September 23, marks a pivotal moment in the Kingdom’s history, the unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932. In 2025, the country celebrates its 95th National Day on a Tuesday, promising a day rich with tradition, national pride, and vibrant festivities centered around this year’s theme: “Pride in Our Nature.” This celebration continues to unite citizens and residents in honoring Saudi heritage, values, and future ambitions.
What is Saudi National Day? Understanding the significance
Saudi National Day commemorates the official renaming and unification of the Kingdom of Nejd and Hejaz into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. This transformation symbolized the birth of a new nation under King Abdulaziz Al Saud, an event marked annually on September 23. The day was declared a public holiday in 2005 by King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz and is one of three major non-religious holidays in the Kingdom, alongside Saudi Founding Day and Saudi Flag Day.Saudi National Day is not to be confused with Saudi Founding Day, which celebrates the origins of the Saudi state and its historical roots rather than its unification. The National Day focuses specifically on the 1932 proclamation that established the modern Kingdom.
The holiday and celebrations: What to expect in 2025
The 95th Saudi National Day falls on a Tuesday this year. While official announcements on closures for schools, government offices, and private companies are yet to be made, traditionally, employees across both public and private sectors enjoy a day off. In 2024, the holiday extended to a four-day weekend, and similar arrangements might be expected.This day stands as the last public holiday of the year, offering families an ideal opportunity for short breaks, outings, and quality time together.Throughout Saudi Arabia, celebrations are widespread and varied:
- Cultural Events: Folk dances, concerts, and exhibitions highlighting Saudi traditions and heritage.
- Visual Displays: Buildings and landmarks illuminated in bright green, symbolizing national pride.
- Special Offers: Restaurants and businesses participate with iconic food specials and discounts.
- Modern Entertainment: Drone shows and airplane displays have become recent highlights alongside traditional fireworks.
For families and visitors planning ahead, these activities present a vibrant blend of history, entertainment, and community spirit.Also Read: UAE Solar Eclipse 2025
Theme 2025: “Pride in Our Nature” – Values that define Saudi Arabia
The official theme for the 2025 celebration, announced by the General Entertainment Authority on August 5, is “Pride in Our Nature.” This theme encapsulates the Kingdom’s identity, emphasizing qualities that resonate deeply with its people and culture.The theme reflects six core values, each represented by symbolic imagery and woven throughout the festivities:
- Generosity
Represented by the dallah (traditional coffee pot) and finjan (coffee cup), symbolizing the Kingdom’s warm hospitality and the cultural importance of sharing coffee as a gesture of care and welcome. - Authenticity
Reflecting the living culture of Saudi Arabia where traditions are preserved and passed on with respect and intention, making heritage a vital part of daily life. - Ambition
Symbolized by Tuwaiq Mountain, this trait mirrors the Kingdom’s strength and resolve. It echoes Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s message about Saudi ambition rising with clarity and determination. - Solidarity
Depicted through the symbol of crossed hands, solidarity signifies unity, support, and collective strength in times of joy and challenge. Vision 2030
A core part of the identity, Vision 2030 represents the country’s forward-looking goals, focusing on development, innovation, and sustainable growth aligned with national aspirations.- Hospitality
More than tradition, hospitality embodies the Kingdom’s genuine willingness to support and share with others, making care and generosity central to the Saudi spirit.
Together, these six values form the heart of the 2025 National Day celebration, guiding the visual identity and the shared experience of pride across the Kingdom.
Looking ahead: The national day’s place in Saudi Arabia’s calendar
Saudi National Day remains a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s annual calendar, symbolizing unity, cultural pride, and the ongoing journey of national development. It serves not only as a reminder of historical milestones but also as a reflection of contemporary achievements and future ambitions, especially as outlined in Vision 2030.As the last public holiday of the year, it offers a meaningful pause for Saudis to celebrate their heritage and look ahead to the future with hope and determination.
