Saudi National Day 2025

Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Local Name: Al-Yaom Al-Watany (اليوم الوطني)

Saudi Arabia will mark its 95th National Day on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, a day known across the Kingdom as Al-Yaom Al-Watani. More than just a public holiday, this occasion symbolizes the Unification of the Kingdom and serves as a nationwide celebration of Saudi Arabia’s history, achievements, and ambitions for the future.

In recent years, the day has grown in scale and significance, reflecting the country’s transformation under Vision 2030. This bold strategic plan aims to diversify the economy, empower citizens, and showcase the Kingdom’s global leadership.

Visit the official website for Saudi National Day 2025

What Is Saudi National Day?

Saudi National Day commemorates the founding of the modern Saudi state in 1932 by King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, who successfully unified the regions of Nejd and Hejaz under a single banner, an event known as the Unification of the Kingdom.

The royal decree that proclaimed the birth of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was issued on September 23, 1932, and this date has since become a symbol of national identity, strength, and unity.

Is Saudi National Day 2025 a Public Holiday?📆 

Yes. Saudi National Day 2025 is officially recognized as a public holiday across the Kingdom. Most:

• Government ministries and public institutions
• Private sector offices
• Educational facilities
• Banks and financial institutions
  
  

Will observe a full-day closure on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

If the holiday falls near the weekend, Saudi authorities may sometimes announce extended time off. Keep an eye on official announcements from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

How Saudi National Day Is Celebrated in 2025 🎉 

Over the past decade, Al-Yaom Al-Watany has evolved into one of the most vibrant and anticipated holidays in Saudi Arabia. Here’s what to expect this year:

1. National Fireworks & Drone Shows

Spectacular fireworks displays will light up the night sky in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Abha. In addition, drone light shows have become increasingly popular, creating stunning aerial animations of Saudi symbols and landmarks.

2. Saudi Hawks Air Show

The Saudi Hawks, the Royal Saudi Air Force’s elite aerobatic team, are set to deliver jaw-dropping air performances across the Kingdom. These stunts symbolize national pride, precision, and the strength of Saudi Arabia’s military forces.

3. National Parades and Folklore

Public spaces will host Ardha sword dances, traditional music performances, and folklore shows that bring the Kingdom’s deep-rooted cultural heritage to life. Citizens often wear green and white attire, wave flags, and participate in community parades.

4. Vision 2030-Themed Events

In 2025, many National Day campaigns will spotlight Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s plan for a diversified, knowledge-based economy. Expect to see exhibitions highlighting achievements in:

• Sustainability and renewable energy
• Women’s empowerment and leadership
• Tourism and cultural heritage
• Digital transformation and entrepreneurship
  
  

Best Places to Celebrate Saudi National Day 2025

No matter where you are in the Kingdom, you'll find events and festivities, but here are a few must-visit spots:

Riyadh

• Boulevard Riyadh City: A hub of entertainment, shopping, and fireworks
• King Abdulaziz Historical Center: Offers exhibitions about the Unification of the Kingdom
• Kingdom Tower and Al Faisaliyah Center: Iconic skyscrapers lit in national colors
  
  
  

Jeddah

• Jeddah Corniche: Live music, drone shows, and family-friendly activities
• King Abdulaziz Cultural Center: A space for storytelling, poetry, and cultural displays
  
  

NEOM (Tabuk Province)

Though still under development, NEOM represents the Kingdom’s future. Expect digital showcases and immersive experiences highlighting NEOM’s role in achieving Vision 2030.

Eastern Province (Dammam, Al Khobar)

• Half Moon Bay: Popular for family picnics and national flag displays
• Al Khobar Corniche: Ideal for watching air shows and waterfront fireworks

National Identity in a Modern Era 🧭 

The theme of national identity is central to every Saudi National Day celebration. In 2025, expect a focus on:

• Honoring the legacy of King Abdulaziz and the royal family
• Celebrating cultural values alongside modernization
• Embracing the goals of Vision 2030 in areas like education, innovation, and entertainment
  
  

This fusion of tradition and future-forward thinking is what makes Al-Yaom Al-Watany both nostalgic and forward-looking.

Special Promotions and Public Engagement 🛍️ 

Businesses and government entities often launch National Day initiatives such as:

• Discount campaigns across shopping malls and e-commerce platforms
• Patriotic TV ads and short films
  
• Corporate social responsibility (CSR) campaigns focused on community development
• National Day merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and décor
  
  

Many families enjoy themed staycations, while others travel to cities with major celebrations.

Travel Tips for Tourists During National Day✈️ 

Is it a good time to visit? Yes, but plan ahead.

What to Expect:

• Limited hotel availability in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Khobar
• Heavy traffic near celebration zones
• Potential for temporary closures of malls, parks, or museums during large events
  
  

Travelers interested in cultural experiences will find this a perfect opportunity to explore Saudi hospitality, traditions, and national unity in action.

What Day Does Saudi National Day Fall on in 2025? 

Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

While it’s a mid-week holiday, the Saudi government may announce a long weekend, particularly if combined with religious holidays or national holidays. Watch for official guidance closer to the date.

What to Wear and How to Participate

Saudi National Day is marked by a sea of green and white, from clothing to city decorations.

What to Wear:

• Green abayas, thobes, or scarves
• Saudi flag pins, face paint, and themed accessories
• National Day T-shirts for children and adults
  
  

How to Participate:

• Attend a public event or concert
• Visit a historical or cultural landmark
• Share posts on social media using hashtags like:
  
  
  • #SaudiNationalDay2025
  • #اليوم_الوطني_السعودي
  • #Vision2030
  • #NEOM

Fun Facts About Saudi National Day

• It wasn’t an official holiday until 2005, when the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz made it so.
• Saudi Arabia has no other national holidays aside from religious ones, making this a truly unique occasion.
• Each year’s celebration has an official theme or slogan aligned with Vision 2030 goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is Saudi National Day 2025?

It will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

2. Is it a public holiday?

Yes. Most public and private institutions will be closed for the day.

3. What does Saudi National Day commemorate?

It marks the Unification of the Kingdom in 1932 under King Abdulaziz Al Saud.

4. Are there special events in 2025?

Yes. Expect fireworks, air shows by the Saudi Hawks, concerts, parades, and exhibitions themed around Vision 2030.

5. What is Vision 2030?

It’s Saudi Arabia’s national transformation plan, launched in 2016, aimed at reducing oil dependency and boosting sectors like tourism, tech, and entertainment.

Ready to Celebrate?

Whether you’re a citizen, resident, or tourist, Saudi National Day 2025 is a powerful reminder of the Kingdom’s journey from unification to transformation. From the legacy of King Abdulaziz to the promises of NEOM and Vision 2030, this day celebrates where Saudi Arabia has been, and where it's going.

Mark your calendars, wear your green and white, and get ready to celebrate Al-Yaom Al-Watany with pride and passion.