Have you ever wondered about the rich history behind Saudi Arabia’s most important cultural celebration? Saudi Founding Day marks the establishment of the first Saudi state in 1727, representing nearly three centuries of unity, growth, and cultural heritage. Saudi Founding Day brings together millions of Saudi citizens and residents who honor their shared past while looking toward the future. From traditional festivities to modern celebrations, let’s explore what makes this day truly special and how you can be part of these meaningful traditions.
A Historical Overview of Saudi Founding Day: The story of Saudi Founding Day begins in 1727 when Imam Muhammad bin Saud established the first Saudi state in Diriyah. According to historical records maintained by the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), this marked the beginning of a unified political entity that would later become modern Saudi Arabia.
During this period, Diriyah became a center of learning, trade, and governance. The partnership between Imam Muhammad bin Saud and Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab created a strong foundation based on Islamic principles and effective administration. Historical documents from the Ottoman archives and European travelers’ accounts describe Diriyah as a thriving city with impressive architecture and busy markets.
The Significance of Saudi Founding Day Symbols: Saudi Founding Day celebrations highlight important national symbols that represent the country’s identity. The Saudi flag, with its green background and white Arabic inscription, carries deep meaning. The sword symbol represents justice and strength, while the Arabic text declares the fundamental Islamic principle of monotheism.
How Saudi Founding Day is Celebrated
Saudi Founding Day celebrated on February 22 each year, commemorates the establishment of the first Saudi state in 1727 by Imam Muhammad bin Saud. It’s a national holiday in Saudi Arabia, with celebrations that blend modern festivities with cultural and historical significance.
Here are some key ways the day is celebrated:
- Public Celebrations: Major cities, especially Riyadh, host grand events such as parades, traditional music, dances, and fireworks. Cultural performances showcase Saudi Arabia’s heritage, reflecting its Bedouin roots and the history of the Kingdom’s founding.
- Official Ceremonies: Government officials and dignitaries participate in speeches and formal events that highlight the importance of the nation’s history, the leadership of Imam Muhammad bin Saud, and the unity of Saudi Arabia under the leadership of the Saudi Royal family.
- Cultural Activities: Museums, exhibitions, and cultural centers often hold special events and displays to educate the public about the founding history of the kingdom. These include traditional handicrafts, art, and historical documentaries.
- Special Promotions: Businesses and shopping malls offer promotions, discounts, and activities. Restaurants, for instance, may offer traditional Saudi dishes, and many places decorate with national colors.
- National Pride: Citizens and residents prominently display the Saudi flag, and many people dress in traditional attire such as thobes and abaya. There is a sense of national pride and unity as people reflect on Saudi Arabia’s development and heritage.
Top Saudi Founding Day Gift Ideas
Telecom Gift Cards
- STC Recharge KSA: A digital recharge card for Saudi Telecom Company (STC) users. Perfect for staying connected during Founding Day celebrations. Available in denominations from 10 to 500 SAR. Instantly adds credit for calls, texts, and data services to any STC prepaid number in Saudi Arabia.
- Lebara Voice KSA: Digital top-up credit for Lebara mobile users in Saudi Arabia. Ideal for international calls and local communication. Choose from various packages starting at 20 SAR. Credit validity extends up to 90 days depending on the recharge amount.
- Mobily KSA: Digital recharge cards for Mobily network users. Includes options for data packages, voice minutes, and combined bundles. Available in values from 15 to 300 SAR. Simple activation through SMS or Mobily app.
- Virgin KSA: Gives you digital credit for Virgin Mobile Saudi Arabia customers. Flexible recharge options starting from 25 SAR. Includes special data bundles and voice packages. Quick activation through the Virgin Mobile app or SMS.
- Zain: Digital recharge options for Zain Saudi Arabia subscribers. Various denominations available from 10 to 400 SAR. Includes options for data packages, voice minutes, and international calling. Easy activation through multiple channels.
Shopping Gift Cards
- MRSOOL KSA: Digital gift cards for Saudi Arabia’s popular delivery app. Values range from 50 to 500 SAR. Valid for all services including food delivery, groceries, and other items. No expiration date on the credit.
- Noon KSA: Digital gift cards for Noon’s online shopping platform. Available in denominations from 50 to 1000 SAR. Valid for millions of products on Noon Saudi Arabia. Easy to redeem through the Noon app or website.
- Amazon KSA: Digital gift cards for Amazon.sa. Values range from 25 to 1000 SAR. Access to millions of products with local and international shipping options. No expiration date and easy redemption process.
- Talabat KSA: Digital gift cards for food and grocery delivery. Available in various amounts from 50 to 500 SAR. Valid across all restaurants and stores on Talabat. Simple redemption through the Talabat app.
App Stores Gift Cards
- Google Play KSA: Digital gift cards for Android users. Values from 25 to 500 SAR. Valid for apps, games, movies, books, and in-app purchases. Redeemable through Google Play Store.
- App Store & iTunes KSA: Digital gift cards for Apple’s ecosystem. Denominations from 25 to 1000 SAR. Valid for apps, games, music, movies, and Apple services. Easy redemption through Apple ID.
Gaming Gift Cards
- PlayStation Store KSA: Digital codes for PlayStation Network. Valid for games, DLC, subscriptions, and in-game items. Instant delivery and redemption.
- Steam KSA: Digital wallet codes for the Steam platform. Available in various amounts from 25 to 500 SAR. Access to thousands of PC games and DLC. Instant code delivery.
- Free Fire Global: Digital diamonds for Free Fire game. Various packages available. Valid for in-game purchases and battle passes. Instant delivery to game account.
- Mobile Legends: Digital diamonds for Mobile Legends. Multiple package options. Valid for heroes, skins, and other in-game items. Quick credit delivery.
- PUBG Mobile: Digital UC (Unknown Cash) for PUBG Mobile. Various denominations available. Valid for Royal Pass and in-game items. Instant delivery to game account.
- Minecraft: Digital gift cards for Minecraft marketplace. Access to skins, texture packs, and worlds. Multiple value options available. Easy redemption process.
- Yalla Ludo: Digital diamonds for Yalla Ludo game. Various package sizes available. Valid for in-game purchases and features. Instant credit delivery.
- Jawaker: Digital chips for the Jawaker gaming platform. Multiple package options. Valid for card games and other features. Quick delivery to game account.
- Roblox: Digital Robux gift cards. Various amounts available. Valid for avatar items and game passes. Instant code delivery.
- Cross Fire: Digital ZP (Z Points) for CrossFire. Multiple package options. Valid for weapons, characters, and items. Quick credit delivery.
Entertainment Gift Cards
- Shahid VIP: Digital subscription codes for Shahid streaming service. Options for monthly and annual subscriptions. Access to Arabic and international content. Instant activation.
- Netflix: Digital gift cards for Netflix subscriptions. Various denomination options. Valid for all Netflix plans and content. Easy redemption through a Netflix account.
Where to Buy Saudi Founding Day Gift Cards
Buying a Saudi Founding Day Gift Card through Arpay is a simple and secure process, allowing you to enjoy premium entertainment hassle-free. Follow these steps to get your gift card:
- Choose Your Gift Card: Visit the Arpay website, browse the available gift cards, and select the Gift Card with the amount that suits you.
- Enter Your Email: Provide your email address in the designated field to start the process.
- Verify Your Email: A confirmation code will be sent to your email. Enter this code to verify your identity.
- Enter Your Phone Number: Input your phone number for added security.
- Verify Your Phone Number: Another code will be sent to your phone number. Enter it to complete the verification.
- Choose Your Payment Method: Select the payment option that works best for you to finalize the purchase.
- Receive Your Gift Card Code: After successful payment, you’ll receive an email containing your Gift Card code, which you can use to redeem or send as a gift.
How do I redeem Saudi Founding Day Gift Cards?
Redeeming gift cards can be a little confusing because each card has a different process, but ARPAY has made it easier by creating a complete gift card redeeming guide for you!
Conclusion
Saudi Founding Day stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and progress that characterizes Saudi Arabia. Saudi Founding Day celebration brings together past and present, allowing people to honor their heritage while embracing modern developments.
As Saudi Arabia continues to grow and develop, Founding Day remains a vital reminder of the strong foundations upon which the nation was built. It inspires future generations to contribute to their country’s success story.
FAQs
What are the guidelines for Saudi Founding Day?
- Cherish the solid roots of the Saudi State.
- Cherish the close bonds between themselves and their leaders.
- Appreciate the cohesiveness, stability, and security established by the Saudi State.
- Appreciate the resilience of the First Saudi State and its defense against enemies.
What is an acceptable gift in Saudi Arabia?
Common gifts are high-quality perfumes, sweets, and more significant gifts such as gift cards.
What is the meaning of the Saudi Founding Day?
The Founding Day commemorates the three centuries of the existence of the Saudi State, highlighting its historical and civilizational depth, celebrating its diverse cultural heritage, and expressing devotion to the imams, kings, and citizens who serve the nation.
Aya Atef
I'm Aya, a content creator at ARPay, crafting engaging articles about payment gift cards, digital installments, and everything that makes online shopping seamless. Whether it's gaming top-ups or the latest e-commerce trends, I write to level up your shopping experience!
