What is Saudi Flag Day?

Today, March 11 is Saudi Flag Day.

An annual observance, Flag Day is a celebration of the Kingdom's flag as we know it; acknowledging the adoption of the unofficial version of the national flag by King Abdulaziz bin Saud in 1937, until it became the official flag of the nation in 1973 following the approval of the Council of Ministers.

This year's Saudi Flag Day coincides with the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan 2024.

The Saudi Arabian flag is a deep, forest green colour and in white, the Arabic phrase or Islamic declaration of faith that translates to: "There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger / Prophet of Allah" in traditional Thuluth script. Beneath this phrase is the depiction of a traditional sabre or sword, also in white, which according to Britannica, is said to symbolise the nation's strict adherence to the Islamic faith and to justice.

Although not a public holiday, Saudi Flag Day is observed across the nation with many shops, hotels and businesses flying the flag to honour the day.

To learn more about Saudi Founding Day, click here.