RIYADH: Several events will be held in cities across Saudi Arabia starting from Tuesday to celebrate Founding Day and the Kingdom’s well-established roots that spanned for more than three centuries, organizers said on Wednesday.
The Kingdom will mark the day for the first time on Feb. 22, after the Saudi Cabinet adopted the day to commemorate the country’s founding in 1727 by Imam Mohammed bin Saud earlier this month.
The day also celebrates the close connection between its citizens and leaders since the founding of the Saudi state in mid-1727, and until now, Saudi Press Agency reported.
A number of events will be held in the capital, Riyadh, including “The Beginning” event in Wadi Namar, where 3,500 performers will shed light on the Kingdom’s history over three centuries through 10 scenes. The “Founding Operetta” — a musical theatrical performance — will be held on Feb. 23 at the Mohammed Abdo Arena in Riyadh Boulevard and will portray six historical icons that passed during the three centuries, beginning with the founder.
On the evening of Feb. 24, the Riyadh sky will be decorated with a light show featuring fireworks, aerial drone shows and sound effects, and spectators can view the show from the intersection between King Salman bin Abdulaziz Road and Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz I Road.
From Tuesday to Thursday, the National Museum in Riyadh will host the “Majlis” event to celebrate Saudi culture and includes a series of interactive workshops, discussions that document the cultural aspects of the first Saudi state.
Other events include shedding light on traditional markets, Saudi clothing and costumes and Saudi coffee, an art exhibition and historical cultural seminars, as well as fireworks displays and a range of programs suitable for all age groups.
Different regions of the Kingdom will witness various activities over the two days highlighting the historical, cultural and social legacy of the Saudi state up to the present time.
Preparations underway to mark the first Saudi Founding Day on Feb. 22
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Preparations underway to mark the first Saudi Founding Day on Feb. 22
- Various activities will be held over two days highlighting the historical, cultural and social legacy of the Saudi state
Diriyah in 2025 — A year of exceptional achievement
- Jerry Inzerillo: In 2025, the project reached a pivotal stage, transitioning from laying foundations to large-scale delivery, marking a clear shift from vision to execution
- Partnerships with The Helicopter Co. and Kakao Mobility advanced smart aerial and ground transportation solutions
JEDDAH: Under the theme “Vision to Reality,” Diriyah has moved beyond aspiration in 2025, translating long-held plans into a tangible, lived experience, according to Jerry Inzerillo, group chief executive officer of Diriyah Co.
Throughout the year, Diriyah Company, the Saudi Public Investment Fund entity developing the Diriyah giga-project, advanced from planning and preparation into delivery. Contracts and agreements exceeding SR24 billion ($6.4 billion) marked a pivotal transition from the establishment phase to early operations.
Inzerillo told Arab News: “At Diriyah, progress is measured by what is delivered on the ground against the plans we set. In 2025, the project reached a pivotal stage, transitioning from laying foundations to large-scale delivery, marking a clear shift from vision to execution.
“Together, these achievements reinforce Diriyah’s role as one of the Kingdom’s most important national transformation projects, with growing impact locally and internationally. We remain committed to advancing with responsibility and purpose, transforming ambition into reality and creating a destination that honors history while shaping the future.”
In 2025, Diriyah Co. signed eight major contracts, alongside 16 agreements, reinforcing delivery momentum across multiple development streams. International recognition also continued to grow, with Diriyah earning prestigious global awards and securing positions in influential international rankings, Inzerillo said.
Infrastructure development played a central role in shaping the visitor experience. New road networks were delivered to ensure smooth connectivity between historic districts and contemporary developments.
The company also inaugurated two high-capacity electricity transmission substations, securing the power required to support residents, visitors and a growing portfolio of residential, hospitality, educational and cultural assets.
Collaboration with Majid Al-Futtaim Group introduced a portfolio of global brands, positioning Diriyah Square as a distinctive shopping and entertainment destination, Inzerillo said. At the same time, Diriyah’s partnerships with the Saudi Contractors Authority and the Saudi Tennis Federation embedded sports, events and professional initiatives into the fabric of urban life.
Diriyah’s vision extended into the future of mobility and design, Inzerillo said. Partnerships with The Helicopter Co. and Kakao Mobility advanced smart aerial and ground transportation solutions, designed to make movement across the city faster, more efficient and integrated.
Diriyah Company, in collaboration with Pantone, unveiled “Diriyah Tan,” a custom color inspired by the city’s historic mud architecture. More than a visual signature, the color captures Diriyah’s identity, bridging its origins with its contemporary expression.
Diriyah’s excellence was also recognized at the highest international level, Inzerillo said. In 2025, TIME magazine named Diriyah Company among the World’s 100 Most Influential Companies, acknowledging the project’s cultural, economic and urban impact.
