Saudi Arabia Declares Four-Day Break for 94th National Day

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is set to celebrate its 94th National Day, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s history. This year’s commemoration promises to be exceptional, with the government announcing a four-day holiday for students and employees across the country. The National Day of Saudi Arabia, observed annually on September 23, holds immense importance as it commemorates the unification of the kingdom and its emergence as a modern state.

This extended celebration period allows Saudi citizens and residents to fully engage in the festivities and reflect on the nation’s progress. The holiday will feature a wide array of events, including parades, exhibitions, and cultural activities organized by various government entities such as the General Entertainment Authority. These celebrations aim to showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, promote national values, and highlight the country’s advancements in line with Saudi Vision 2030. The long weekend also provides an opportunity for families to come together and take part in the nationwide display of national pride and unity.

Announcement Details

The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has declared a four-day holiday to commemorate the 94th National Day of Saudi Arabia. This year, the celebration falls on Monday, September 23, 2024, extending the weekend from Friday through Monday. Both government and private sector employees will enjoy a full four days off, allowing for an extended period of celebration. Students will also benefit from this arrangement, with Sunday, September 22, designated as an additional day off according to the Ministry of Education’s academic calendar. This extended break aligns with the Ministry’s regulations, ensuring employees receive an official paid holiday for National Day. The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) has unveiled this year’s theme, “We Dream and Achieve,” emphasizing the significant projects under Saudi Vision 2030 and highlighting the Kingdom’s ambitions across various sectors.

Historical Significance

The National Day of Saudi Arabia commemorates the unification of the Kingdom on September 23, 1932, by King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud. This historic event marked the culmination of a 30-year journey that began with the recapture of Riyadh in 1902. King Abdulaziz, then in his twenties, led a small group from Kuwait to Riyadh, initiating a new era for the Arabian Peninsula. The unification process involved conquering various regions, including Najd, Al-Hasa, and Hejaz. By 1925, both Nejd and Hejaz were under his rule. The royal decree issued on September 23, 1932, officially proclaimed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with Arabic as its national language and the Quran as its constitution. This day has since evolved into a celebrated tradition, fostering patriotism and national pride through folk dances, songs, and traditional festivals.

Celebration Theme and Activities

The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) has unveiled the theme for Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day: “We Dream and Achieve.” This slogan, carried over from the previous year, highlights the Kingdom’s transformative journey and significant projects under Saudi Vision 2030. The celebrations will showcase ambitious mega-projects, including THE LINE Project, the Sindalah Project, and the Electric Car (CEER) Project, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s leadership and innovation across various sectors.

The festivities will feature a wide array of events and performances. A highlight will be the “We Race Dreams” air show, with military and civilian aircraft displaying the Kingdom’s flag in the skies of multiple cities. Additionally, a military parade extending over a kilometer will showcase various units, vehicles, and music bands. Firework displays will illuminate the skies in more than 15 locations across the country, while drone shows in Riyadh will form national images, including portraits of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day celebration is set to be a momentous occasion, bringing together citizens and residents to honor the kingdom’s rich history and bright future. The four-day holiday allows ample time to reflect on the nation’s progress and take part in the diverse array of events planned across the country. From air shows and military parades to fireworks and drone displays, the festivities showcase Saudi Arabia’s achievements and ambitions.

The theme “We Dream and Achieve” highlights the kingdom’s ongoing transformation and its commitment to realizing the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. As the nation commemorates its past and looks ahead, this extended celebration serves as a reminder of Saudi Arabia’s journey from unification to becoming a modern, forward-thinking state. The National Day not only fosters a sense of pride and unity among Saudis but also showcases the kingdom’s cultural heritage and technological advancements to the world.