Founding Day celebrations in Historic Jeddah: A living testament to heritage and glory
In a majestic scene blending the charm of the past with the vibrancy of the present, a field tour by Al-Youm newspaper documented the exceptional celebrations of "Founding Day" in the heart of Jeddah's historic district (Al-Balad). The alleyways and traditional buildings of the old district were transformed into a vibrant open-air theater, where the passage of time dissolved, allowing thousands of visitors and tourists to experience an immersive journey that recounted three centuries of Saudi glory.
Historical depth and significance of place
These celebrations do not derive their significance from being merely a passing event, but rather draw their momentum from the profound symbolism of commemorating the founding of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 AD. The selection of "Historic Jeddah," a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adds an extra dimension to the occasion; the blending of the founding history originating in Diriyah with the rich heritage of the Hijaz and the gateway to the Two Holy Mosques embodies the enduring national unity that has been forged over centuries, and reflects the rich cultural diversity that the Kingdom embraces under one banner.
Traditional costumes reflecting national unity
The tour revealed a remarkable emotional response from both citizens and residents, who transformed from mere visitors into an integral part of the festive scene. Amidst the historic buildings, young people and families proudly wore traditional attire representing all regions of the Kingdom, from the embroidered agal and dagla to the mujannad and mahzam, creating a visual tableau reflecting the unity of the social fabric. The crowds spontaneously shared in singing national songs and performing folk dances, infusing the atmosphere with warmth and joy, far removed from any formality.
A global organization reviving heritage
Visitors praised the professional organization overseen by Benchmark, whose efforts successfully transformed the alleyways and corridors of historic Jeddah into open-air museums. Modern visual technologies were employed to tell the story of the nation's development in innovative ways that blended tradition with modernity, allowing new generations to experience history as if it were unfolding before their very eyes.
Economic and tourism activity that keeps pace with the vision
The event wasn't merely about reminiscing; it reflected a vibrant cultural and economic movement aligned with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to promote cultural tourism. Visitors flocked to artisans, traditional cafes, and small national businesses lining the routes, contributing to a boost in the area's economy. This interaction paints a microcosm of a nation that cherishes its rich history and stands confidently and openly toward its promising future, reaffirming that Founding Day is an annual occasion to renew loyalty and belonging and solidify national identity.
