Coinciding with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's celebrations of its founding day, the Ministry of Interior launched a unique initiative entitled "Place of History," which embodies the close connection between the modern security establishment and the deep historical roots of the first Saudi state. This initiative aims to revive and preserve sites that marked pivotal moments in the development of security and administrative work in the Kingdom, emphasizing their continued central role in consolidating the foundations of national security and stability throughout the ages.
Historical background: From the first state to the modern institution
The celebration of Saudi National Day on February 22nd each year commemorates the founding of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 CE, with its capital in Diriyah. This state was established on the firm foundations of unity, the application of Islamic law, and the achievement of security for society—the same principles that have persisted throughout the various phases of the Saudi state, culminating in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia today. From this perspective, the security establishment is not a product of the modern era, but rather a natural extension of the concept of the state and the preservation of order, which began three centuries ago. The “Place of History” initiative aims to highlight this enduring legacy and document the evolution of the security apparatus, which has kept pace with the growth of the state and its challenges.
The goals and dimensions of the “Place of History” initiative
The “Place of History” initiative is more than just a restoration project; it serves as a living documentation of the state’s institutional memory. The ministry began the initiative by revitalizing its first headquarters in the capital, Riyadh, which opened in 1957. This site is not merely an old building, but a testament to a pivotal stage in the organization and modernization of administrative and security operations. The initiative’s objectives include:
- Preserving institutional heritage: Safeguarding historical sites associated with the Ministry of Interior and its various sectors, as an integral part of the national heritage.
- Strengthening national identity: Connecting new generations to their country’s history, and highlighting the efforts made to establish an integrated security system that serves the citizen and protects the nation’s resources.
- Documenting administrative development: Showcasing the stages of development that the security organization has gone through, from traditional methods to the latest technologies and modern administrative concepts.
Importance and expected impact
Domestically, the initiative is of paramount importance in fostering national pride and loyalty, demonstrating to citizens that the institutions protecting them today have deep historical roots. It also aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on preserving the Kingdom's historical and cultural heritage. Regionally and internationally, this initiative presents an image of a nation with profound historical and cultural depth, possessing robust institutions that have evolved over time to become among the most efficient in the region, thus reinforcing the Kingdom's position as an influential and stable state. The revitalization of these sites tells the inspiring story of the nation's development and evolution, highlighting a long history of dedicated institutional work, with security as its cornerstone.
