Saudi National Day
Saudi Arabia's National Day is celebrated on September 23rd each year, commemorating the unification of Najd and Hijaz. In 1932, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was officially unified and named after the family surname of King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud. 'Al Yom Al Watany' is the Arabic term for National Day, celebrated on a fixed date in the Gregorian calendar. However, the year of this holiday is calculated according to the lunar calendar, with 2020 marking the 90th anniversary of Saudi Arabia (not the 88th anniversary according to the Gregorian calendar). During National Day celebrations, Saudi Arabia lights up fireworks, holds parades with floats showcasing the characteristics of each region, and features joyful music and beautiful traditional costumes. The Saudi flag lines the streets, fluttering in the wind. In this special cultural event, people showcase their pride in their country to the world, lighting up cars and houses in green. National Day is an excellent time to visit Saudi Arabia—the entire country exudes an atmosphere of joy and celebration. Wear green attire to blend into the festive atmosphere and head to Riyadh for the largest celebrations. Macmillan says, 'In Riyadh, you can see fireworks ascending from different places.' 'It's very festive.'
Eid al-Fitr: The Eid Mubarak (Blessed Feast)
Ramadan is an important month in Islam, usually involving fasting and reflection. On the last day of Ramadan, a grand three-day celebration is held to mark the end of Ramadan and the beginning of a new year. Every day at sunset during Ramadan, 'iftar' is held to celebrate. After Ramadan ends, people celebrate Eid al-Fitr. After a month of fasting and reflection, the main theme of Eid al-Fitr celebrations is to share everything you have with others, including donating a special charity called Zakat al-Fitr. The minimum donation amount is equivalent to the headcount of each family member, approximately £5 or $7 per person in rice, wheat flour, or other staple foods.
Eid Al Adha
Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated on the 10th day of the last month of the Islamic calendar (Dhu al-Hijjah), approximately two months after Eid al-Fitr. This festival symbolizes the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorates the Prophet Abraham's willingness to obey God's command to sacrifice his firstborn son, Isaac. Before Isaac was sacrificed, God intervened and provided a ram for Abraham to sacrifice instead. Today, many Saudi families still sacrifice sheep, goats, cows, or even camels, dividing the meat into three parts to share with family, friends, neighbors, and the less fortunate. As most businesses and shops will be closed for three days, it will be a peaceful time for tourism. Additionally, it is the best time to visit small villages to witness traditional ancient celebrations.
