Saudi National Day in Saudi Arabia
Saudi National Day is observed on September 23, marking the 1932 proclamation that united the country under the name Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is an official holiday, and its celebrations honor the unification led by King Abdulaziz.[1]
The date and its meaning
The date follows the Gregorian calendar. In 1932, Royal Decree No. 2716 established the first day of Libra as the date of the country’s unification; that day corresponds to September 23. The decree changed the state’s name from the Kingdom of Hejaz and Najd and its dependencies to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.[1]
National Day is distinct from Founding Day, which Saudi Arabia observes on February 22. National Day looks back to the unification and naming of the modern kingdom, and is an occasion to recognize the role of King Abdulaziz and his companions in that history.[1][3]
How the holiday became official
The annual National Day was established by royal decree during King Faisal’s reign in 1965. King Fahd made it an official public holiday in 2004.[1] These milestones are separate: one established the annual commemoration, while the other designated it a public holiday.[1]
The labor regulations provide workers with one day of paid leave for Saudi National Day. They also state that if the holiday coincides with a weekly rest day, workers are to receive the same number of compensatory days before or after the holiday; if it coincides with Eid leave, no compensation is due for National Day.[2]
Public celebrations
Celebrations take place across the country. Saudipedia describes flags raised on government buildings, fireworks, national marches and official speeches, with festivities held in all regions. National traditions also feature in media, at international airports and through government and private-sector channels.[1]
Saudi National Day celebrates the kingdom’s unification and national identity, with events across Saudi Arabia.[1]
What closes and what stays open
Government offices close on public holidays, and workers receive one day of paid leave for Saudi National Day.[2] Shops, restaurants and local transport set their own schedules, so visitors should check directly with the service they plan to use.
Banks observe National Day as a financial-institution holiday, but some branches may operate during holidays. Banks and payment providers must announce the branches and hours that remain available.[3] Check with a bank before relying on in-person service.
Frequently asked questions
When is Saudi National Day?
Is National Day a paid day off?
What happens if the date falls on a weekend?
The labor regulations provide workers with compensatory days when the holiday coincides with their weekly rest day. SAMA’s financial-institution schedule says a Friday holiday moves to Thursday and a Saturday holiday to Sunday. These rules address different contexts, so check the applicable employer or bank notice.[2][3]
Are banks, shops and transport open?
Banks treat National Day as an official holiday, though designated branches may open and must announce their hours. Check shop opening hours and transport schedules with the relevant business or operator.[3]
What happens during the celebrations?
Reported observances include raising the Saudi flag, fireworks, national marches, official speeches and festivities across the country. Events can vary by location and year.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for National Day in Saudi Arabia:
- Saudi National Day- Saudipedia, Ministry of Media
- The Implementing Regulations of Labor Law and its Annexes- Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development
- Holidays and Working Hours- Saudi Central Bank