List of Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia 2024

December 14, 2023
Zimyo Marketing
Middle East

What are the Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia(2024) ?

Saudi Arabia, a land of rich cultural heritage and landscapes, celebrates several public holidays that reflect the country’s traditions and historical significance. These special occasions provide a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of life of people in Saudi Arabia. From celebrating the Founding Day of Saudi Arabia to marking religious milestones such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, Saudi Arabia’s public holidays serve as a time for reflection, unity, and joy. In this blog, we will delve into the vibrant tapestry of Saudi Arabia’s public holidays, exploring the unique traditions, cultural nuances, and the spirit of celebration that define each occasion.

Here is the list of public holidays in Saudi Arabia in 2024:

Date	Weekday	Holiday
22 February, 24′	Thursday	Foundation Day
11 March 24′	Monday	Flag Day
8 – 9 April, 24′	Monday – Tuesday	Eid Al Fitr
15 – 19 June, 24′	Saturday -Wednesday	Eid Al Adha
23 September, 24′	Monday	National Day

Here are the details of Saudi Arabia Public Holiday 2024:

Foundation Day (February 22, 2024)

Foundation Day is recognized as an official public holiday in Saudi Arabia on February 22 every year. The holiday was recognized in 2022 to commemorate the foundation of the first state of Saudi Arabia- Diriyah by Imam Mohammad Bin Saud. On this day most businesses and corporations are closed to mark the importance of Foundation Day. Foundation Day is not a replacement for Saudi Arabia National Day which is observed on September 23 every year. At this event, individuals are dressed in traditional costumes to demonstrate their country. Folklore dances along with traditional songs are organized. The tradition of serving food along with dessert is a common tradition on this day.

Flag Day (March 11, 2024)

Flag Day is celebrated in Saudi Arabia on March 11 every year. It is a new national holiday instituted by the Royal Decree of Saudi Arabia. This day holds the utmost importance in the history of Saudi Arabia as its flag was approved on March 11, 1937, by King Abdulaziz. This flag witnesses the unity among the people of Saudi Arabia. The flag is also connected with the foundation of Saudi Arabia. Saudi individuals see their national flag as a symbol of faith, love, unity and brotherhood. There is a particular way of flying the flag in Saudi Arabia and anyone who didn’t follow it and abuse the flag can be jailed. Most of the businesses and corporations are closed on this day.

Eid-al-Fitr (April 8-9, 2024)

Eid-al-Fitr holds the utmost importance for Muslims around the world. The date of this festival may vary in different countries as it depends on the lunar cycle of the moon. Businesses and corporations in Saudi Arabia are closed on this day. This two-three-day festival falls after the holy month of Ramadan also known as the “Month of Fasting”. Eid-al-Fitr is also known as the “End of Fasting” as it is followed by Ramadan in which Muslims fast. On this day Muslims thank the Almighty for the blessings and pray for the years ahead. On this day Muslims dress up in traditions and join the prayers at Mosque. Followed by prayers, feasts and gift distribution and everyone greets each other with “Eid-Mubarak”.

Eid-al-Adha (June 15-19)

Eid-al-Adha also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice’ is observed as a public holiday in Saudi Arabia. Muslims sacrifice a cow or an animal to the Almighty on this day to thank them for the blessings and wish for a great life ahead. The date of this festival may vary across the world as the lunar cycle of the moon influences the date of this festival. Known by the name of “Id-ul-Azah”, “Hari Raya Haji” or “Bakra Eid’ is celebrated as a commemoration of Prophet Muhammad to sacrifice everything to the Almighty. On this day a third of the feast of sacrificed animals is consumed by family, another one-third by friends or relatives and the rest is distributed among the needy.

National Day (September 23, 2024)

Saudi National Day is considered one of the biggest celebrations in Saudi Arabia. This day falls on September 23 every year and is observed as a public holiday in Saudi Arabia. National Day signifies the birth of modern-day Saudi Arabia. The nation was also recognized by the name of KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). Businesses, corporations and schools are closed on this day. The first National Day was observed on September 23, 2015, and since then the scale of celebrations has increased. The celebrations include special parades, concerts, events and fireworks. A famous logo for Saudi National Day was also initiated which is “We dream and we achieve”. The slogan signifies the enthusiastic and optimistic nature of Saudis.

Summing Up

So these are all the public holidays celebrated in Saudi Arabia. Most of the businesses and corporations are closed on these days to celebrate and mark their importance.

All the above-mentioned public holidays are applicable in Saudi Arabia. So if you are looking to plan your holidays and vacations with your near and dear ones you can use this calendar as a reference. Moreover, organizations and HR professionals can use the calendar to plan the holidays for their employees accordingly.

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