The Islamic University of Madinah is celebrating Saudi National Day with a comprehensive program of cultural and heritage events that highlight the historical and cultural depth of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These celebrations, taking place on campus until February 26, aim to embody pride in the deep-rooted foundations of the Saudi state and its national identity, and to introduce this important national occasion to its faculty, staff, and students from around the world.
Founding Day: A Window into Three Centuries of History
Saudis celebrate Founding Day on February 22nd each year, a date that symbolizes the establishment of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 in its capital, Diriyah. This occasion was officially recognized by royal decree in 2022, commemorating the deep historical roots of the state, which spans three centuries. Founding Day differs from National Day, which falls on September 23rd and celebrates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud in 1932. The celebration of Founding Day connects current generations to their rich past and highlights the nation's journey of building upon the foundations of unity, stability, and authenticity.
The importance of celebration in a global institution like the Islamic University
These celebrations hold particular significance at the Islamic University, a global beacon of knowledge that welcomes students from over 170 countries. Through these events, the university not only fosters a sense of national belonging among its Saudi students but also offers its international students a unique opportunity to experience firsthand the authentic culture and rich history of the Arabian Peninsula. These initiatives serve as a bridge for cultural exchange, showcasing the Kingdom's cultural and historical heritage, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to strengthen national identity and promote Saudi heritage globally.
A diverse range of heritage and cultural events
The events held at the university include a rich array of activities reflecting the national heritage. The "Saudi Tent" is the centerpiece of the celebrations, featuring a variety of interactive displays, most notably:
- Handicrafts Corner: Displays traditional arts and crafts that reflect the skill and creativity of our ancestors.
- The “We Eat When We Started” corner offers visitors the opportunity to taste the popular dishes and foods that were prevalent during the founding period.
- The “Our Clothes Since the Day We Started” corner showcases traditional clothing from various regions of the Kingdom, telling a story of authenticity and elegance.
- The Storyteller's Corner and Arabic Calligraphy: where historical stories are told and the beauty of Arabic calligraphy is highlighted as an integral part of cultural identity.
Accompanying programs and interactive activities
In addition to the heritage tent, the celebrations include diverse programs and activities targeting all segments of the university community, such as the "Our Values in the Founding" events, "Poems of the Day We Began," and student cultural competitions. The university also organizes the "Languages of the World Celebrate Founding Day" event, in which international students participate, as well as the "Day We Began Marathon" and the "Founding Cup" to add a sporting element to the festivities. The university's main gate is adorned with visual displays and lights bearing the identity and logo of Founding Day, reflecting an atmosphere of pride and celebration of this glorious national occasion.
