The Saudi Ministry of Interior, represented by the General Directorate of Passports, announced the launch of a special stamp commemorating the Kingdom's Founding Day, which is celebrated annually on February 22nd. This initiative aims to immortalize this important national occasion and document it in the records of travelers arriving at and departing from the Kingdom's ports of entry, serving as a commemorative mark that tells the story of three centuries of rich history.
The historical context of the founding day
Founding Day commemorates the establishment of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 CE, when he made Diriyah its capital and a center of stability and unity in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. This day was officially designated a national holiday by royal decree in 2022, aiming to highlight the Kingdom's rich history and culture and to celebrate the deep-rooted heritage of this blessed nation. Founding Day differs from National Day, which falls on September 23rd and commemorates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in its modern form by the founding King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud – may God have mercy on him – in 1932 CE. Thus, Founding Day connects the present with a glorious past, affirming that the Kingdom's history spans three centuries of glory and heroism.
The importance of the seal and its symbolic meanings
The new seal carries profound historical and national significance. It is not merely an administrative procedure, but a symbol embodying the glories of the Saudi state and its rich heritage. Placing this seal on passports represents a cultural and civilizational message, introducing the world to the early beginnings of the state and affirming the journey of its leadership and people through its various stages. This measure also reinforces the sense of pride and belonging among citizens, reminding them of the solid foundations upon which their country was built: unity, cohesion, and stability. This initiative coincides with other similar initiatives, such as the issuance by the Saudi Post Corporation (Sabel) of a commemorative 3-riyal postage stamp, in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, to celebrate the same occasion, reflecting the concerted governmental efforts to solidify this anniversary in the national consciousness.
Local and regional impact
Domestically, such initiatives contribute to strengthening national identity and deepening the connection of new generations to their ancestors' history. They transform history from mere lines in books into a living, tangible experience, instilling values of loyalty and belonging. Regionally and internationally, commemorating and highlighting the Founding Day through official symbols such as the seal and stamps presents a comprehensive image of Saudi Arabia as a nation with deep historical roots in the Arabian Peninsula, not merely as a modern economic power. This reinforces its position as a pivotal player in the region, possessing a cultural and political legacy spanning centuries, and corrects any perceptions that might reduce its history to the last few decades.
