This Thursday the 23rd of September was the 85th anniversary of the unification of the two leading kingdoms in the region (of Hejaz and Najd) into one single kingdom, Saudi Arabia, in 1932. Also today is Thul Haj-09 All are performing in HAJ in Arafa. But most of the people fasting this day around the world. This unification crafted a fast-growing economy that became a boom less than a decade later with the discovery of oil reserves in huge quantities. These were the largest in the world at the time, and total one fifth of the world’s supply.
National Day, in recognition of the 1932 Unification of the country. But let’s also think—serious concerns over human rights. According to The Economist’s Democracy Index, the country has the ninth most authoritarian government in the world. Ouch!
Saudi Arabia is the Big Cahuna of the Arabian Peninsula—not only size-wise, but as home to not only Mecca, but also Medina. So the two holiest places in Islam are right there. Mecca, obviously, is the destination for the annual Hadj pilgrimage—and each Muslim is meant to carry out this pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime. Muhammad was born in the city—hence its importance. Medina is where Muhammad moved to, making it another important place within the Islamic faith. So, Saudi Arabia itself is inextricably linked with Islamic history.
(And, yes, pre-Islam Saudi Arabia was inhabited, and most empires traded with the states along the peninsula.)
There have been three Saudi states—the Third Saudi state was founded in the early 20th century, with borders being established in the 1920s—though not with all countries. It was only a few years ago that Saudi Arabia and Yemen settled their border disputes, and the borders with the United Arab Emirates and Oman are not really defined at all. And I can tell you’re thinking: desert! It’s a desert! Yes. Most of the country is desert. But there’s also the ‘Asir region, with mountains that get their share of green.
Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy—the country is ruled by the sons and grandsons of the first king of the Third Saudi State, Abd Al Aziz Al Saud. This Thursday the 23rd of September was the 85th anniversary of the unification of the two leading kingdoms in the region (of Hejaz and Najd) into one single kingdom, Saudi Arabia, in 1932. This unification crafted a fast-growing economy that became a boom less than a decade later with the discovery of oil reserves in huge quantities. These were the largest in the world at the time, and total one fifth of the world’s supply.
For a very long period the national day of Saudi Arabia was not publicly celebrated. Celebrations of state, with an exception for those of a religious nature, were not deemed suitable by the clerics. One of the first things that the present custodian of the two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz did upon coming to power in 2005, was to pass decrees making the National day for Saudi Arabia official. He insisted that authorities openly observe it, in order to build up national pride. Ever since then, celebrations have been held in schools and companies.
This day is an official holiday for schoolchildren and students at all educational levels, as well as for all employees of the state's sectors, everywhere in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Minister of Education Prince Faisal Bin Abdullah officially ordered schools to hold celebrations in 2013, but time has shown that most of the students have a wonderful time anyway, and do not need much encouragement.
What to do on National Day – Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabian citizens will mass on the squares, listening to patriotic music and fill the streets with endless processions of cars, some spray painted and decorated with flags. Green and white, whether on flags, fingernails, T-shirts, house illuminations or car bodies, will very much be the colours of the moment.
When is the Saudi National Day 2016?
If you are planning on visiting the kingdom next year, we strongly recommend you coming around the 23rd of September to experience next year’s celebrations. Come and experience real Arabian hospitality and perfect comfort in a sophisticated manner.
Prepared & Collection By : M.Ajmal Khan.
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