The first Saudi state was founded by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1139 AH/1727 CE, and King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, enacted a Royal Decree to commemorate this day every year on February 22. This date symbolizes the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s deep historical, civilizational, and cultural roots.
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Saudi founding day history
Our history is not recent, but dates back to the early fifth century, when the Banu Hanifa tribe first came in Al-Yamamah, during the pre-Islamic period. They made their home in the Arabian Peninsula’s middle, where they established Al- Yamamah, which was based in Najd on the banks of Wadi Hanifah and later joined the Prophet’s Empire with the rise of Islam.
The Arabian Peninsula faced instability, neglect, and weakness once the Rashidun Caliphate was over, and it was neglected. This lasted until Prince Mani ibn Rabi’a al-Muraydi returned to Central Arabia to continue the traditions of his forefathers, “Banu Hanifa,” in 1446AH/850 CE, around the middle of the 9th Hijri century. As the prince built the Second town of Diriyah (which combined the neighborhoods of Ghasyba and Al-Mulaybeed) as a metropolis capable of expansion and full of security and stability, his entrance constituted the first step in creating the foundation of the first Saudi State. It is different from AD-Diriyah, where they established themselves east of Al-Qatif.
After Mani’ al-sons Muraydi’s and grandsons successively ruled the Emirate of Diriyah for more than 280 years, the area was prepared for a new age when Imam Muhammad bin Saud assumed control of Diriyah in the middle of 1139 AH (February 1727CE). Imam Muhammad established the First Saudi State with Diriyah as its capital, transforming Diriyah from a weak and divided state to one of unity and political independence.
Born and raised in Diriyah in 1679 CE, Imam Muhammad bin Saud bin Muhammad bin Muqrin (1090 AH). He watched and took part in the events of his father’s and grandfather’s rule over the Ad Diriyah Emirate while there, which gave him expertise in leadership and an understanding of the local circumstances. Because of his foresight and tenacity, he succeeded in achieving his goal of ruling a peaceful and affluent nation.
Imam Muhammad bin Saud, who founded the First Saudi State and became its ruler, made an effort to bring about regional unification by maintaining peace in Diriyah and the nearby cities and tribes as well as by securing trade and pilgrimage routes. He also strengthened the fortifications of Diriyah and expanded and supervised the State’s economic activities. As the first stage of the Saudi First State’s unification, which was accomplished throughout the reigns of his sons and grandchildren, the State then set out to unite the regions of Najd.
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Why do we celebrate Saudi Foundation Day?
The founding day honors the three centuries that the Saudi State has existed, highlighting the breadth of its history and culture, honoring its rich cultural heritage, and expressing gratitude to the imams, monarchs, and people who uphold the country.
Why February 22nd?
In the second half of the year 1139 AH, Imam Muhammad bin Saud became the ruling official in Diriyah. The first Saudi State was established on Jumada II 30, 1139 AH (February 22, 1727 CE), for this reason.
What is the difference between the Founding Day and the National Day?
The first Saudi State was established on February 22, 1727 CE, which is known as The Foundation Day (the founder, Imam Muhammad bin Saud). The declaration of Saudi Arabia’s unity was made by the united King Abdul-Aziz bin Abdul Rahman Al-Faisal Al Saud, may Allah have mercy on his soul, on September 23, 1932 CE, which is recognized as National Day.