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Asharq Al-Awsat
11-03-2025
- General
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Flag: A Symbol of Justice, Strength, and Growth for Three Centuries
Saudi Arabia is celebrating its third consecutive Flag Day on Monday, following a royal decree issued by King Salman bin Abdulaziz on March 1, 2023. The decree designated March 11 as an annual observance, commemorating the same date in 1937 when the Saudi flag was formally adopted in its current form. The Saudi flag has undergone several transformations throughout history, with its evolution marked by significant events and stories that extend beyond being a simple piece of fabric. Adnan Al-Turaif, a researcher specializing in Saudi heritage and history, has extensively documented the evolution of the Kingdom's flag—also known as the Alam or Bayraq—across the three eras of the Saudi state. Al-Turaif is also the custodian of the original flag of the First Saudi State, along with dozens of other historical banners, which he has preserved in his private museum among a collection of rare artifacts showcasing Saudi Arabia's 300-year flag heritage. The Saudi flag has flown green for three centuries, undergoing several transformations before taking its current form during the late reign of King Abdulaziz, according to Al-Turaif. Citing historical sources, Al-Turaif explained that early versions of the flag were crafted from silk and brocade, bearing the inscription 'There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger' in elegant script, and mounted on a simple pole. This design remained unchanged throughout the reigns of the First Saudi State's founding rulers—Imam Muhammad bin Saud, his son Imam Abdulaziz bin Muhammad, and their successors Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz and Imam Abdullah bin Saud. European travelers and orientalists also documented the Saudi flag's significance. Spanish explorer Domingo Badía y Leblich—who posed as a Muslim under the alias Hajj Ali Bey Al-Abbasi while spying for Napoleon III—described witnessing Imam Saud's army entering Makkah in 1807. He noted that 45,000 soldiers, clad in white pilgrimage garments, marched in unison behind a large green flag adorned with the Islamic creed in bold white script. Swiss traveler Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, who adopted the name Ibrahim Abdullah after converting to Islam, also provided accounts of the Saudi flag during his travels across Arabia around 1810. He observed that each emir within the Saudi military carried a distinct banner, while Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz commanded multiple flags, underscoring his authority over the Arabian Peninsula. Al-Turaif traces the origins of the first Saudi flag to 1727, when it was raised by Imam Muhammad bin Saud, the founder of the First Saudi State. During his 40-year rule, the flag was either carried by one of his sons or held by the ruler himself, symbolizing authority and unity. Al-Turaif cites the writings of Ibn Bishr, a noted historian, who documented that Imam Abdulaziz bin Muhammad and his son Imam Saud—the second and third rulers of the First Saudi State—would send envoys to tribal leaders, instructing them to gather at a predetermined time and location. The flag would be raised at the meeting site, serving as a rallying point where no tribal leader dared to be absent. Ibn Bishr also recorded that Imam Saud was undefeated in battle, and his banner was regarded as a symbol of triumph and divine favor. When discussing Imam Turki bin Abdullah, founder of the Second Saudi State, Ibn Bishr noted that before launching a military campaign, the ruler would notify tribal chiefs and regional governors of the date and location of their assembly. Fifteen days prior to setting out, he would prepare military supplies, horse fodder, and battle gear. Shortly before departure, the flag would be hoisted near his palace gates, signaling the imminent march. His son, Imam Faisal bin Turki, continued this tradition, ensuring the flag always led the way in military expeditions and was displayed prominently at the palace before mobilization. King Abdulaziz initially used the same flag design as the First and Second Saudi States before introducing modifications, according to Al-Turaif. Ameen Al-Rihani, in his historical accounts, described the early flag of King Abdulaziz as square-shaped, featuring a green section with the Islamic creed ('There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger'), a white portion near the flagpole, and two crossed swords above the text. The design later evolved, reducing the swords to a single, straight sword placed beneath the inscription. In 1925, King Abdulaziz ordered a new version of the flag, and in 1937, the Shura Council established official dimensions—150 cm in length and 100 cm in width. That same year, a decree standardized the use of different flags for the king and crown prince, the military, the air force, the navy, and the merchant fleet. Further modifications came in 1952, when the Shura Council revised the flag's dimensions and specifications. In 1973, the Council of Ministers formally approved the current design. Under King Fahd, the Basic Law of Governance, issued in 1991, officially defined the Saudi flag's characteristics: a green field with a width two-thirds of its length, featuring the Islamic creed in white Arabic script, with a white sword positioned beneath the text—a design that remains unchanged to this day.
Saudi Gazette
24-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Saudi Gazette
Largest Saudi Ardah, performed during Founding Day celebrations, wins Guinness World Record
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — In an exciting moment of pride for Saudi Arabia, the largest Saudi Ardah, which was performed as part of the Kingdom's Founding Day celebrations, was officially recognized by Guinness World Records. The event, which took place at Al-Adl Plaza in Riyadh on Sunday, attracted over 50,000 visitors, marking the conclusion of a four-day celebration from February 20 to 23. The standout moment of the celebration was the Ardah, a traditional folk dance that saw 633 performers come together, making it the largest performance of its kind ever recorded. This achievement underscores the Ardah's importance as a cultural symbol of national pride and heritage. The performance not only honored Saudi traditions but also highlighted the country's rich history, showcasing it to a global audience. Alongside the Ardah, the celebrations included a heritage exhibition, where visitors could explore Saudi Arabia's history through photos, documents, and visual displays. The exhibition focused on the Kingdom's early foundations, including the leadership of Imam Muhammad bin Saud, who established the Saudi state in 1139 AH. It also showcased the nation's significant milestones and achievements under the reigns of various kings and leaders. Founding Day, observed every year on February 22, commemorates the birth of Saudi Arabia. In 2022, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman declared the day a national holiday to honor the historic moment when Imam Muhammad bin Saud held power in Diriyah. The celebration is not only an indication of the past but also a reminder of the Kingdom's remarkable growth and development over the years. The festivities also included an interactive time travel experience, where visitors could virtually journey through the stages of Saudi Arabia's founding. This provided a unique and engaging way for people to connect with the Kingdom's history. The Guinness World Record for the largest Saudi Ardah is a testament to the Kingdom's commitment to preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage. As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve, moments like this highlight the country's pride in its history and bright future ahead.
Leaders
24-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Leaders
Jeddah Celebrates Founding Day 2025 with Photo Exhibition
The Saudi Arabian Society of Culture and Arts in Jeddah has celebrated the Saudi Founding Day 2025 through a stunning exhibition titled 'Our Kingdom'. The photography exhibition has showcased 40 artworks reflecting the history of the Kingdom, according to the Saudi Press Agency. Jeddah Celebrates Founding Day 2025 with Photo Exhibition The exhibition highlighted the participation of 40 photographers who exerted efforts to document traditional costumes across the regions of the Kingdom. Furthermore, they took distinctive shots for old palaces and houses, paintings of horses and swords, and various aspects of people's lives in the past. Jeddah Celebrates Founding Day 2025 with Photo Exhibition On February 22, Saudi Arabia began the Founding Day celebrations to commemorate the establishment of the First Saudi State in 1727 by Imam Muhammad bin Saud. The Kingdom's regions have been organizing a vast array of exciting activities and events to highlight the Saudi national heritage and rich history. Jeddah Celebrates Founding Day 2025 with Photo Exhibition Related Topics: Saudi Ardah Dance Breaks New Guinness Record during Founding Day Celebrations King Salman Science Oasis Celebrates Founding Day with Scientific Festivities AlUla Celebrates Founding Day 2025 Through Cultural Experiences Short link : Post Views: 48 Related Stories
Leaders
24-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Leaders
Saudi Ardah Dance Breaks New Guinness Record during Founding Day Celebrations
On Saudi Arabia's Founding Day, festivities kicked off all around the Kingdom to observe this significant national occasion. Saudis mark this day with a showcase of Saudi Arabia's rich heritage and culture, donning their traditional costumes, sharing delicious traditional dishes, drinking Saudi coffee, and enjoying folk music and dance shows, including the famous Ardah dance. The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) and the Emirate of Riyadh Province organized Founding Day celebrations over four days, from February 20-23, 2025, drawing in large crowds exceeding 50,000 visitors, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The celebrations set a new Guinness World Record, with the largest Ardah performance, featuring 633 performers taking part in this captivating dance show. Saudi Ardah Dance Breaks New Guinness Record during Founding Day Celebrations This new achievement underscores the cultural significance of Ardah as one of the Kingdom's deeply-rooted national traditions, demonstrating Saudis' pride in their national identity and their commitment to preserving and promoting their popular heritage globally. The Founding Day celebrations featured heritage zones and an exhibition which attracted a large number of visitors to explore the history of Saudi Arabia through visual displays and historical documents that highlight the journey of the Kingdom since its establishment. Ardah performance The Saudi Founding Day, which falls on February 22 of each year, commemorates the establishment of the First Saudi State on the hands of Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. Imam Muhammad bin Saud established a political entity to achieve unity, stability and prosperity in the Arabian Peninsula. He took Diriyah as the capital of this state, and the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be upon Him) as its constitution. Short link : Post Views: 62
Leaders
22-02-2025
- Politics
- Leaders
Saudi Founding Day 2025: A Legacy of Glory and National Pride
On February 22, 2025, Saudi Arabia will celebrate the Founding Day, reviving the anniversary of the birth of the First Saudi State. This significant national occasion commemorates the establishment of the Saudi State by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in the 18th century. On this occasion, Saudis cherish their deeply-rooted history, celebrating the unity, security and stability brought by Imam Muhammad bin Saud. The First Saudi State paved the way for the emergence of the modern-day Saudi Arabia, a beacon of culture, prosperity and development. Saudi Founding Day: Origins At the beginning of the 5th century, the Banu Hanifah tribe settled in the center of the Arabian Peninsula, establishing the kingdom of Al-Yamama in Al-Aridh region on the banks of Wadi Hanifah in Najd. Later, this state became part of the State of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be upon Him) after the advent of Islam. After the end of the Rashidun Caliphate, instability spread in the region. In 1446 (850 AH), Prince Mani' ibn Rabi'a al-Muraydi moved from first Diriyah, located near Al-Qatif in the Arabian Peninsula's east, to the central Arabian Peninsula, returning to the land of his ancestors Banu Hanifa. His return marked the first foundation of the First Saudi State. Historical building in Saudi Arabia ( Prince Mani' established the second Diriyah, merging Ghasyba and Al-Mulaybeed neighborhoods, which later expanded into a more secure and stable city. Over 280 years, Prince Mani' al-Muraydi's sons and grandsons ruled the Emirate of Diriyah until Imam Muhammad bin Saud heralded a new era. The First Saudi State In February 1727 (1139 AH), Imam Muhammad bin Saud became the ruler of Diriyah, transforming it into a unified and independent political entity, after years of weakness and division. Thus, Imam Mohammed bin Saud established the First Saudi State, with Diriyah as its capital, and the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as its constitution. During his reign, Imam Muhammad bin Saud brought unity, security and stability to Diriyah and the surrounding regions. Moreover, he secured the routes of Hajj (pilgrimage) and trade, regulated and expanded the State's economy, and fortified Diriyah's walls. Convoy ( After that, the State embarked on unifying the regions of Najd, marking the first phase of the First Saudi State unification, which was completed during the reigns of Imam Muhammad bin Saud's sons and grandsons. Imam Muhammed bin Saud: The Founder Imam Muhammad bin Saud bin Muhammad bin Muqrin was born and raised in Diriyah in 1679 (1090 AH). Working alongside his father and grandfather, who ruled Diriyah Emirate, Imam Muhammad bin Saud gained experience in governance and state affairs. Before his ascension to the throne, Diriyah was in a state of weakness and division as a result of an internal conflict over ruling the Emirate; Diriyah's campaign against the village of Al-Uyayna; and the spread of the plague across the Arabian Peninsula, which claimed many lives. Imam Muhammad bin Saud ( Despite all these circumstances, Imam Muhammad bin Saud succeeded in unifying Diriyah and stabilizing Al-Arid region, thanks to his great knowledge in politics and unwavering determination to rule a unified and prosperous state. After 40 years of visionary and wise leadership, Imam Muhammad bin Saud passed away in 1765 (1179 AH). He had four sons, Abdulaziz, Abdullah, Saud, and Faisal, who carried on his legacy. Greatest Achievements As the founder of the First Saudi State, Imam Muhammad bin Saud achieved great accomplishments during his reign. These included unifying Diriyah's two sectors and bringing them under one rule; regulating the economic affairs of the First Saudi State; and building Al-Tarfiyah new district in Samhan and moving his headquarters there. Diriyah's wall ( Furthermore, Imam Muhammad bin Saud promoted education and transformed Diriyah into a destination for students; constructed Diriyah walls to defend it against attacks; securing Hajj and trade routes; uniting the greater part of Najd under his rule; and confronting military campaigns against the state. Saudi Founding Day: Women Shaping the Nation Women played a pivotal role in the establishment of the First Saudi State. They were the real heroines who took the burden of building the society which shaped the state and contributed to its prosperity and cohesion. Women were known for their generosity, patience and sound management. They managed household affairs, raised children to value courage and defend their nation, and helped people in need. Women dress in the central region One of the leading female examples is Imam Muhammad bin Saud's wife, Mudi bint Sultan ibn Abi Wahtan al-Kathiri, who had a great influence in the establishment of the First Saudi State. She was the foremost supporter of Imam Muhammad bin Saud and the mother of his four sons. Mudi bint ibn Abi Wahtan had an interest in learning and charity. She was an advisor to her husband, owing to her wisdom and sound judgment. Honoring his mother's name, Imam Abdulaziz bin Muhammad bin Saud established the famous endowment (waqf) in the At-Turaif neighborhood, Sabalat Mudi (a sabala is a charitable endowment for a community). It included two floors which offered free accommodation for merchants, visitors, and the needy, as well as students. It also contained rooms for teaching, sleeping, eating, and storage; in addition to stables to house the animals of merchant caravans; and a mosque. The Glorious Path Continued Imam Muhammad bin Saud's sons followed in his footsteps, upholding his legacy and resuming his mission. Under their rule, the First Saudi State was a beacon of culture, science and prosperity. However, the First Saudi State ended in 1818 (1233 AH), when the Ottomans invaded the Arabian Peninsula and besieged Diriyah. But the elements of the First Saudi State remained steadfast, as the people remained loyal to their leadership. Leaders from Al Saud family emerged to re-establish the Saudi State. Saudi People ( In 1824 (1240 AH), Imam Turki bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud succeeded in establishing the Second Saudi State, with Riyadh as its capital. Years later, in 1902 (1319 AH), King AbdulAziz bin Abdul Rahman bin Faisal Al Saud successfully recaptured Riyadh, in a turning point in the region's history with the emergence of the Third Saudi State. In September 1932, King Abdulaziz Al Saud issued a royal decree announcing unification of the country under the name (The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), starting from September 23rd, 1932. Hence, this has become the Saudi National Day, marking the birth of modern Saudi Arabia. Saudi Founding Day Significance The Saudi Founding Day is a symbol of the cohesiveness, stability and security of the Saudi State. It is also a unique occasion to celebrate the solid roots of the Saudi State and the resilience of the First Saudi State in the face of challenges. On this day, Saudi people take pride in their national identity and honor their leaders, who dedicated themselves to building a unified and prosperous state. In recognition of the historical and cultural significance of the occasion, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, said: 'This state, which was founded nearly three centuries or more ago, is a state of unity, firmly rooted on the Quran and the Sunnah.' King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud The King added: 'It was the unification of this vast kingdom into a single entity, where equality, justice, and faith prevail, that represented the first model of a stable nation in the modern era of our region.' Similarly, the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman, said: 'We have very important historical roots, since time immemorial, that converge with many civilizations. Many think that the history of the Arabian Peninsula only goes back a short time. However, we know that the opposite is true, that we are a nation since time immemorial.' Cherishing the Occasion In 2022, King Salman issued a royal decree declaring the Founding Day as an official holiday in Saudi Arabia. The royal decree said that 'the 22nd of February of every year shall be designated to mark the commemoration of the founding of the Saudi state under the name 'Founding Day,' and shall be an official holiday.' Falling on Saturday, February 22, 2025, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced the day an official holiday for the private and non-profit sectors to celebrate the Saudi Founding Day. The Founding Day celebrations are marked with a showcase of Saudi authentic heritage and national identity. People don their traditional attire, perform folk dances and eat traditional dishes. Short link : Post Views: 86
