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. Moreover, 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, public holidays in Saudi Arabia serve as a time for reflection, unity, and joy. Also, in this blog, we will delve into the vibrant tapestry of public holidays in Saudi Arabia, 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 Public Holiday in Saudi Arabia 2024:
Foundation Day (February 22, 2024)
Flag Day (March 11, 2024)
Moreover, Flag Day is celebrated in Saudi Arabia on March 11 each year. Instituted by a Royal Decree, this new national holiday holds great historical significance as it marks the approval of the Saudi flag by King Abdulaziz on March 11, 1937. Simultaneously, this flag witnesses the unity among the people of Saudi Arabia. As a result, the flag is closely associated with the foundation of Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Saudi individuals see their national flag as a symbol of faith, love, unity and brotherhood. Hence, anyone who didn’t follow it and abuse the flag can be jailed, there is a particular way of flying the flag in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, on this day, most businesses and corporations are close.
Eid-al-Fitr (April 8-9, 2024)
Eid-al-Fitr holds the utmost importance for Muslims around the world. However, the date of this festival may vary in different countries as it depends on the lunar cycle of the moon. As as result, in this day, businesses and corporations in Saudi Arabia are close. Moreover, this two-three-day festival falls after the holy month of Ramadan also known as the “Month of Fasting”. Consequently, eid-al-Fitr is also known as the “End of Fasting” because it follows Ramadan, during which Muslims fast. On this occasion, Muslims thank the Almighty for the blessings and pray for the years ahead. Additionally, on this day Muslims dress up in traditions and join the prayers at Mosque. Following 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 holidays 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 as “Id-ul-Azah,” “Hari Raya Haji,” or “Bakra Eid,” the celebration commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice everything for 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 according to the gregorian calendar and is observed as a public holidays in Saudi Arabia. National Day signifies the birth of modern-day Saudi Arabia. People also call the nation 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 is “We Dream and We Achieve.” The slogan signifies the enthusiastic and optimistic nature of Saudis.
Summing Up
In conclusion, In conclusion, public holidays in Saudi Arabia are celebrated every year. Therefore, businesses and corporations close on these days to celebrate and mark their importance.
All the above-mentioned public holidays in Saudi Arabia are applicable. 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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* The above mentioned dates are preliminary and subject to change. We will modify them upon receiving updates.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The public holidays in Saudi Arabia include Foundation Day, Flag Day, Eid-al-Fitr, Eid-al-Adah and National Day.
Eid-al-Fitr is observed as the biggest holiday in Saudi Arabia.
Friday is considered a weekly day off in Saudi Arabia for all employees.
Public holidays in Saudi Arabia are celebrated with parades, road shows, rituals and prayers offered to the Almighty.