Saudi Arabia marks World Meteorological Day

The WMO has paid tribute to meteorological and hydrological facilities, which collect and consolidate weather prediction data 24 hours a day. (Photo courtesy of Saudi National Center of Meteorology)
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Updated 24 March 2023
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Saudi Arabia marks World Meteorological Day

JEDDAH: World Meteorological Day, observed on March 23 every year, is celebrated this year under the theme “The Future of Weather, Climate and Water Across Generations.”

It aims to join efforts at all national, regional and international levels to address the causes of extreme weather events and climate change, as well as the increasing scarcity of water resources.

The occasion also falls on the anniversary of the World Meteorological Organization’s establishment in 1950. The organization acts as an international umbrella that deals with weather and climate predictions, and serves as an effective channel for international cooperation in this vital area of development, urbanization and stability of humans and living organisms on the planet.

Through this year’s theme, the organization aims to pay tribute to the 24-hour national services of the meteorological and hydrological facilities, which collect and consolidate weather prediction data. 

Saudi Arabia is one of the founding states of the organization and undertook significant work in the field of meteorology at the local, regional and international levels. Its work in this regard is reflected in its functions on meteorology and climate, as well as through eight regional and international centers.

These centers are the Jeddah Regional Communication Center, the Regional Center for Drought Monitoring and Early Warning, the Jeddah Regional Climate Center, the Jeddah Global Information System Center, the Operational Information Center for Air Navigation Services, the Jeddah Historical Information Rescue Center, the Atmospheric and Hydrological Research Center, and the Agricultural Meteorology Research Center. 


Kingdom goes green to celebrate Founding Day

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Kingdom goes green to celebrate Founding Day

  • Parks, streets, public spaces shine with national pride, while cultural programs, family activities bring communities together

RIYADH: Residents of Riyadh took part in an initiative to install First Saudi State flags to mark Founding Day on Feb. 22, organized by the Riyadh municipality.

The initiative, reflecting national pride and drawing community participation, enhanced the festive presence across neighborhoods, parks, streets, and public spaces.

The municipality also organized events across the city and governorates, illuminating main roads and public squares with more than 5,000 decorative lights, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Jeddah municipality launched a multi-day program to mark Founding Day, decorating main roads, squares, and the corniche.

A key event took place at Prince Majid Park on Sunday, featuring falconry, equestrian shows, and traditional handicrafts. Family activities included henna painting and creative workshops for children.

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Dhahran marked Founding Day with a multi-night Ramadan program from Feb. 20–22, offering 30 heritage-focused activities in a festive, family-friendly setting.

Visitors enjoyed cultural events, films, exhibitions, and hands-on workshops. Riyadh resident Tiger Lee, visiting Dhahran for the first time, said he came to experience the celebrations and learn more about the Kingdom’s history.

Entry was free, with food outlets, a traditional souq, henna and Sadu weaving sessions, museum and library storytelling, and plaza exhibitions adding to the experience.

Meanwhile, traditional markets in the Baha region turned into lively cultural hubs, showcasing local heritage and national pride, the SPA stated.

Shops were decorated with flags and traditional handicrafts such as palm frond products and pottery, while visitors and locals wore traditional attire. The markets supported local artisans, boosted economic activity, and enhanced the region’s touristic appeal.

Government buildings and private facilities were also illuminated in green, marking 299 years of Saudi history since 1727.

The King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur’an in Madinah was illuminated in green to mark the national occasion, reflecting pride, unity, and the Kingdom’s stability and progress.

The Tabuk municipality organized 23 cultural and heritage events across the region’s cities and governorates, in partnership with government and private entities, to highlight the day’s historical significance and strengthen national identity. Parks and public facilities were prepared to host residents and visitors.

Meanwhile, the Jazan municipality decorated the region with more than 1,500 banners and themed displays, transforming streets, parks, and public squares.

In coordination with government departments, the celebrations featured national performances, folk arts, and heritage showcases unique to Jazan.