As part of the national celebrations marking the Kingdom's founding day, the Baha Chamber of Commerce and Industry organized a unique cultural initiative: a "Best Traditional Costume" competition. This event was part of a series of programs and activities prepared by the Chamber to commemorate this significant national occasion, and it witnessed a large turnout and enthusiastic participation from various segments of the community in the region.
Historical background and significance of the founding day
Saudis celebrate Founding Day on February 22nd each year, a day that symbolizes the deep historical roots of the Saudi state, founded by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. This occasion serves to reinforce pride in the nation's enduring heritage and the strong bond between citizens and their leaders since the establishment of the first Saudi state three centuries ago. Unlike National Day, which commemorates the unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932, Founding Day focuses on the early beginnings and the cultural and social heritage that shaped the nation's identity, making it an ideal occasion to showcase popular traditions such as traditional clothing.
Competition details and remarkable community interest
The competition was held at the Container Walkway in Al-Baha, specifically at the literary partner, "Buka Cafe," where the venue was transformed into an artistic tableau reflecting the authenticity of the past. The event witnessed a remarkable turnout of men, women, and children, who were keen to wear the traditional clothing for which the Al-Baha region and its surroundings are known. This widespread participation reflected a growing community awareness of the importance of preserving heritage and a genuine desire to pass this rich legacy on to new generations. The scene was like a miniature national celebration, expressing pride in identity and belonging to the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage.
Local and national impact of the event
The importance of these initiatives lies in their vital role in strengthening national identity and values of belonging, especially among youth and children. When a child wears their traditional dress, they are not merely wearing clothes, but absorbing a part of their ancestors' history. At the national level, these events align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on preserving and promoting Saudi Arabia's tangible and intangible heritage as an essential part of the Kingdom's identity and a source of cultural and tourist attraction. Highlighting the diversity of clothing across the Kingdom's regions enriches the overall cultural landscape and showcases the depth and multiplicity of the sources of Saudi identity.
At the conclusion of the competition, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Chamber, Mr. Mashi Al-Omari, honored the winners, expressing his gratitude for the high level of participation. Mr. Al-Omari commended their effective contribution in showcasing the beauty of the cultural heritage, affirming that the Baha Chamber of Commerce will continue to support community initiatives aimed at reviving heritage and strengthening the values of citizenship in future generations.
