Saudi Founding Day is celebrated annually on February 22, and commemorates the establishment of the first Saudi state. It is a time of national pride and reflection, where citizens celebrate the Kingdom's rich heritage, unity, and security.

Saudi Flag via unsplash abdulrhman-alkhnaifer

Enjoy an unmatched view of AlUla from the sky above

Enjoy an unmatched view of AlUla from the sky above

Hot Air Balloon

The day is marked by a variety of celebrations across the nation, including cultural performances, historical exhibitions, and fireworks displays. Founding Day is an opportunity for all Saudis to connect with their history and celebrate the progress made by the nation.

And to celebrate this national holiday, there are plenty of events, concerts and activities taking place throughout the Founding Day weekend:

AlUla

Kokub - February 21 & 22

Maraya - Al Ula

Get ready for a night to remember on top of the iconic mirrored Maraya rooftop. Described as "a cosmic sonic adventure in the heart of AlUla," Kokub is set to be a high-vibe and high-energy gig. With doors opening at 10pm, and the DJs starting on the decks from 11pm, revellers from around the Kingdom will be on the dance floor until the early hours. Who will be spinning the tunes to welcome in the Founding Day weekend? Get ready to dance to the beat of some of your favourite local DJs; Elif, Auf B2B Sokkary and Immortal.

Tickets from SAR250 per person,
February 21 & 22, from 10pm - 4am
Maraya Rooftop, AlUla
Buy your ticket here

Dhahran

Ithra Founding Day Celebrations - February 20-22

Ithra invites visitors to celebrate Saudi Founding Day and embark on a journey through the Kingdom's history and unity. Guests can enjoy a unique experience with inspiring workshops, live performances, and exhibits showcasing Saudi heritage and craftsmanship. From photoshoots in traditional Saudi dress, bisht weaving sessions, oud music performances and interactive and intriguing exhibits, there will be something for everyone to enjoy at the Ithra Founding Day celebrations this weekend.

February 20 - 22, from 4pm - 11pm daily,
King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture - Ithra, Dhahran 34461
Learn more here

Jeddah

Al Balad Social - February 20

Taking place every weekend, this is a night of curated beats from the best DJs in town, and this Founding Day weekend celebration is set to be one for the books. Taking place in the lobby of the Red Sea Palace Hotel in Jeddah's iconic and historic Al Balad district, this edition of the Al Balad Social will see Hats & Klaps take to the decks alongside Basslaw and Christopher Ledger.

Tickets from SAR149 per person,
February 20, from 9.30pm - 2am
Red Sea Palace Hotel, Al Balad, Jeddah
Buy your ticket here

Al Ittihad vs Al Hilal: Roshn Saudi League Season Round 21 - February 22

Al Ittihad Football Jeddah 2

Al Ittihad Football Jeddah 1

Football fans will rejoice with this much-anticipated league clash between Al Ittihad and Al Hilal. A great evening out that the whole family will enjoy, this head-to-head game will most definitely be one to watch. Aside from the match itself, fans can enjoy the thrilling pre-game entertainment in the fan zone, with a wide range of fun activities for fans of all ages.

Tickets from SAR30 per person,
February 22, kick off at 8.30pm,
Alinma Stadium, Jeddah
Buy your ticket here

Moja by MDL Best - February 21

Get ready to rave all night long to the groovy beats of Vinyl Mode, Butch, Space Music and Maktoub. This beach side blow out is the perfect way to start the Founding Day weekend with good vibes. Take in the sounds of the beachy waves as the beats of iconic local DJs spin tunes on the shore.

Tickets from SAR550 per person,
February 21, DJs from 8.30pm - 3.00am,
Oia Beach Resort & Club, Jeddah
Buy your ticket here

Memory of the Land - February 21 - 23

Brought to life by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, the Memory of the Land festival will feature interactive exhibits that guide visitors through the chronological history of the Saudi states, showcasing key events that have shaped the nation. Alongside this historical journey, visitors can enjoy a diverse range of experiences, including captivating artistic performances, theatrical productions, engaging plays, and dedicated areas for children.

Tickets are free, but entry should be booked ahead of time
February 21 - 23, Close to Jeddah Municipality Tower, Jeddah
Book your spot here

Tariq Abdulhakim Museum Founding Day Celebration - February 21 - 23

tariq abdulhakim center museum albalad via visit saudi 1

tariq abdulhakim center museum albalad via visit saudi 2

In collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the Founding Day celebrations at the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum will unfold over three days, from February 20 to 22. Inviting families to immerse themselves in a vibrant atmosphere of heritage, art, and culture, each day will feature a diverse program of activities, including captivating performances, insightful museum tours, engaging workshops showcasing traditional crafts and clothing, and opportunities to savuor authentic heritage cuisine.

Tickets from SAR10 per person,
February 21, 22 & 23, from 5pm - 10.30pm
Tarqi Abdulhakim Museum, Al-Balad, Jeddah
Buy your ticket here

Riyadh

A Session Amongst the Stars - February 20

Celebrate Founding Day with some of the Kingdom's most famous singers - Nawal and Ahlam. Bringing the finest of melodies, national songs and traditional ballads, the singers will embrace the Founding Day celebrations through song and music.

Tickets from SAR200 per person,
February 20, from 7pm
Mohammed Abdo Arena, Riyadh
Buy your ticket here

Tamer Ashour in Concert - February 20

Tamer Ashour 2

Tamer Ashour is a renowned Egyptian singer and composer celebrated for his soulful voice and emotionally resonant music. His distinct vocal style is powerful and expressive, and over the years he has captivated audiences across the Arab world. Ashour's music seamlessly blends traditional Arabic melodies with contemporary influences, creating a unique and captivating sound. He has released several critically acclaimed albums, including "Sa'ab" and "Hadd Beyhebb," featuring hit songs that have resonated deeply with listeners. His contributions to the music industry have earned him widespread recognition and solidified his position as one of the most influential figures in contemporary Arabic music.

Tickets from SAR295 per person,
February 20, Abu Bakr Salem Theater, Riyadh
Buy your ticket here

Suhail Night - February 21

Named in honour of the Suhail Star, a historical guide for travellers and wayfarers, the Suhail Night will see an exceptional musical evening with a once-off performance by the renowned Arab artist Mohammed Abdu. An unmissable event, Suhail Night will celebration Saudi Founding Day with traditional song and Arabic music from one of the nation's most celebrated singers and composers.

Tickets from SAR200 per person,
February 21, from 7pm,
Mohammed Abdo Arena, Riyadh
Buy your ticket here

Raw Fest: Sound and Social - February 21

Raw Escapes Saudi Camping 2

Raw Escapes Saudi Camping 4

A curated camping-style experience where community, workshops and self-care collide. Attendees are invited to immerse themselves in the natural sights of the untouched surrounds in addition to the live performances by world-class artists, whilst also participating in inspiring workshops that nurture movement, mindfulness, and creativity, and explore a curated marketplace showcasing unique local and global crafts, wellness products, and artisanal goods. Ideal for those on a journey of self-discovery, Raw Fest is the opportunity to connect with community, nature and self.

Tickets from SAR138 per person,
February 21, from 3pm - 11pm, Location TBC
Buy your ticket here

Asfar Night - February 22

Paying homage to the journeys that were an essential part of our ancestors’ lives, Abdul Majeed Abdullah will perform a soulful evening of traditional Arabic sounds as part of Asfar Night in the Mohammed Abdo Arena. Abdul Majeed Abdullah is a renowned Saudi singer-songwriter who has captivated audiences across the Arab world with his soulful voice and heartfelt melodies. His music seamlessly blends traditional Arabic styles with contemporary influences, creating a unique and enduring sound.

Tickets from SAR200 per person,
February 22, from 7pm,
Mohammed Abdo Arena, Riyadh
Buy your ticket here

Founding Day Orchestra - February 22 & 23

Saudi National Orchestra and Choir, New York City

Saudi National Orchestra and Choir, New York City

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Experience the spirit of Founding Day through the music and incredible traditional sounds of the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir at the King Fahd Cultural Center. Enjoy two days of exceptional performances showcasing the nation's identity, featuring distinctive and traditional local songs and captivating light and sound shows that illuminate the Kingdom's ancient history.

Tickets from SAR100 per person,
February 22 & 23, from 8.30pm
King Fahad Cultural Centre, Riyadh
Buy your ticket here

Smar - February 22

Welcoming groups of friends, couples and families, Smar is an exciting addition to a series of winter pop-up events taking place in the capital city. The open-air, desert camping-inspired space provides a serene environment for visitors of all ages to relax, unwind and catch up. With an intriguing entertainment zone, and plenty of high-tech toys, Smar aims to offer a wide selection of recreational activities that will suit the entire family.

Tickets from SAR40 per person,
February 22,
Buy your ticket here

The Last Crescendo - February 22

Image via IG canelo

Canelo Alvarez Boxing via IG 4

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Anticipation is building for the 'Last Crescendo,' which is potentially the final major boxing bout of Riyadh Season 2024. The event will see the return of Saudi Arabia's first professional boxer and features the highly publicised rematch between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev. And the addition of Saudi's Ziyad "Zizo" Almaayouf to the fight card has further ignited excitement, captivating boxing enthusiasts globally.

The Last Crescendo: Artur Beterbiev & Dmitry Bivol
Live stream access available from SAR97.99
Event tickets from SAR100
February 22, Kingdom Arena, Riyadh
Buy your pay-per-view access here
Buy tickets for the match here
@riyadhseason @therealzizo @turkialalshik

Samar Night - February 23

In collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Culture, Samar Night will celebrate the sounds of Saudi Arabia with a once-off performance by the legendary Rabeh Saqr. He has achieved widespread acclaim across the Arab world for his unique blend of traditional Arabic music with contemporary influences. Saqr's music often explores themes of love, loss, and social commentary, resonating deeply with audiences of all ages

Tickets from SAR200 per person,
February 23, from 7pm,
Mohammed Abdo Arena, Riyadh
Buy your ticket here

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