Celebrate 95 Years of the Kingdom and Katch the Meaning Behind Saudi National Day

16th September, 2025 |

by - Beth Laverty

The annual holiday brings with it endless festivities, cultural events, and exclusive escapes, making it the perfect time to reflect on the Kingdom’s rich heritage and soak up the joyful atmosphere

Taking place every year on September 23rd, Saudi National Day is a chance for us to celebrate the place a lot of us now call home. As the date quickly approaches, Katch takes a moment to commemorate everything the nation has achieved in its nearly 100-year legacy, spanning record-breaking giga-projects and driving real change through Vision 2030. Having worked with a number of incredible clients across the Kingdom and opened our first PR office in Riyadh in 2024, Saudi Arabia has become a second home for us, and we can’t help but feel swept up in the pride and energy of the celebrations.

Of course, getting an extra day off work is a bonus too, and to help you make the most of it, we’ve compiled a list of all the best ways to celebrate Saudi National Day.

Where It All Started

While many of us are familiar with the origins of Saudi National Day, let’s do a quick recap before we dive into the festivities. Back in 1932, King Abdulaziz unified the regions of Nejd and Hejaz under one banner and named them the new nation of Saudi Arabia, setting the stage for everything we celebrate today. Fast forward to 2005, King Abdullah officially declared Saudi National Day a public holiday, giving communities the opportunity to honour this milestone together.

Since the first major celebrations in 2015, the occasion has only grown bigger with cities glowing green, streets filled with traditional music, and shopping malls, restaurants, and cultural venues pulling out all the stops to mark the day in style.

Embrace Saudi Culture

If you’re yet to nail down a plan for Saudi National Day, why not take the opportunity to learn more about the Kingdom? History buffs can head to Diriyah for the day, the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the birthplace of the Saudi state. Offering a deep dive into the Kingdom’s rich history, this ancient city goes all out for the occasion, with cultural performances, exhibitions, and other activities that showcase the nation’s heritage.

Among the must-visit attractions is the Diriyah Museum, set inside a beautifully restored 18th-century palace. Inside, you’ll wander through galleries that trace the region’s full history, uncovering stories of the tribe that lived there long before Diriyah was settled in 1446 and learning about the rise of the House of Saud. Afterwards, make sure to stop by the At-Turaif district for a glimpse into the first Saudi state, where you can explore its castles and buildings made from mud and palm trunks.

For those looking for a quieter celebration, escape the bustle of the city with a trip to Ushaiqer Heritage Village. Located about 200 kilometres northwest of Riyadh, this hidden gem was once a pit stop for pilgrims on their journey west. These days, it’s a peaceful heritage village where you can wander through old mud-brick homes, explore narrow alleys frozen in time, and pop into a museum filled with vintage jewellery, centuries-old weapons, everyday utensils, and embroidered clothing.

Stay and Celebrate

This Saudi National Day, Address Jabal Omar Makkah promises something to satisfy every craving, serving up an indulgent buffet spread at The Restaurant, complete with international favourites and local delicacies. For something lighter, head to the inviting Lobby Lounge & Café to enjoy green National Day-inspired sliders, Arabic sweets, and Saudi coffee.

Adding to the festivities, guests can also look forward to a dazzling celebration of Saudi heritage on September 23rd. Expect a traditional Ardah performance, showcasing rhythmic drumming, poetic chants, and synchronised sword dancing, as well as a talented henna artist. Afterwards, guests can join a special cake-cutting ceremony, marking the 95th Saudi National Day with a sweet treat.

For a tropical twist on the celebration, secure a last-minute Saudi National Day getaway to the breathtaking Four Seasons Resorts Maldives. Presenting two distinctive island paradises, choose to spend the occasion at the Forbes Five-Star rated Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa or retreat to Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, framed by an awe-inspiring UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Giving you the perfect excuse to book, Saudi residents can take advantage of two exclusive experiences. Fully immerse yourself in the gentle rhythm of island living as you explore coral reefs, savour world-class dining, and rejuvenate at AyurMa wellness, ideal for enjoying with family. Alternatively, embark on a romantic getaway complete with bubbly on arrival, a couples massage, and an intimate candlelit dinner by the beach.

No matter what type of celebration takes your fancy, we hope you can make the most out of this upcoming Saudi National Day. It’s the perfect excuse to learn more about the Kingdom, spend time with loved ones, and honour the nation’s legacy. From all of us here at Katch, we would like to wish you and your family a very happy Saudi National Day.

For more related updates and to Katch us covering similar topics, watch this space!

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