Why Saudi Founding Day is celebrated on February 22

Dubai: Saudi Arabia celebrates Founding Day on February 22, a commemoration of the Kingdom’s deep historical roots and the vision of its first ruler, Imam Mohammed bin Saud, who laid the foundation for what would become the modern Saudi state in 1727.

Established nearly three centuries ago, Saudi Arabia’s origins can be traced back to the founding of Diriyah, which became the political and cultural heart of the First Saudi State.

The ruling Al Saud family has since carried forward the legacy of leadership and governance, shaping the nation’s trajectory through three distinct phases—the First Saudi State (1727-1818), the Second Saudi State (1824-1891), and the establishment of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932 by King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud.

The celebration of Founding Day was first recognized by royal decree in 2022. The Kingdom’s history begins with Imam Mohammed bin Saud, born in 1679, who founded the First Saudi State in 1727 in Diriyah, unifying fragmented tribal regions and establishing a governance system centered on stability, economic growth, and the principles of Islam. Under his leadership, Diriyah flourished as a center for trade, politics, and culture, reinforcing the region’s position as a strategic stronghold.

After the fall of the First Saudi State in 1818, Saudi leadership was restored in 1824 by Imam Turki bin Abdullah, who founded the Second Saudi State and reestablished Riyadh as its capital. 

However, it was King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud who, in 1902, successfully reclaimed Riyadh, leading the unification efforts that resulted in the modern Kingdom’s establishment in 1932.

Since then, Saudi Arabia has become a key player in the Middle East, utilising its strategic location and commitment to stability.

Today, under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia continues to build on its historic foundations, pursuing economic transformation under Vision 2030 and solidifying its position as a global economic and political leader.