Ithra Unveils 96th Saudi National Day Celebrations

Dhahran, September 16, 2026 — The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) has announced a five-day program of cultural events to celebrate the 96th Saudi National Day, running from September 22 to 26. The initiative, released via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), invites both local and international visitors to explore the Kingdom’s rich heritage and forward-looking ambitions under the theme “Glory Through Our People.” The program features 36 curated experiences, including a grand military parade, workshops, film screenings, and musical performances, all designed to showcase the evolution of Saudi culture and the seamless blend of tradition and modernity.

Context and Background

Ithra, an initiative by Aramco, stands as a leading cultural destination in Dhahran, dedicated to enriching lives through impactful cultural and creative programs. The 96th Saudi National Day marks another milestone in the Kingdom’s journey, reflecting the nation’s pride in its history while embracing the transformative goals of Saudi Vision 2030. This year’s celebrations are particularly significant as they highlight the dynamic intersection of heritage and innovation, a core pillar of the Kingdom’s cultural strategy. By curating a diverse array of experiences, Ithra aims to engage visitors in a meaningful exploration of Saudi Arabia’s origins and its aspirations for the future.

Key Details

The festivities will commence with a grand military parade, setting a tone of national pride and unity. Following this, attendees can participate in a series of workshops and interactive sessions. The “Inspired by Our Roots” workshop will examine the unique architectural languages of the Kingdom’s various regions, while “Saudi Calligraphy Art” sessions will allow guests to engage with the aesthetic power of Arabic script. Technology-driven experiences include “Pride Salute,” a motion-sensing installation that translates military ceremonial movements into digital art, and “Who Leads the Rhythm,” a sonic experiment blending traditional Saudi instruments with contemporary electronic sounds. Film enthusiasts can enjoy a curated selection of Saudi films, including the documentary “The Destination,” which showcases the Kingdom’s transformative progress under Vision 2030, alongside experimental works like “Marjouj” and “Irtizaz.” At the Ithra museum, visitors can tour “Bedayat: The Beginning of the Saudi Art Movement,” an exhibition tracing the evolution of the national art scene from the 1960s to the 1980s, featuring renowned early Saudi artists and archival materials.

Implications and Impact

The 96th Saudi National Day celebrations at Ithra are set to have a profound impact on both domestic and international audiences. By presenting a multifaceted program that spans traditional folk dances, such as the Majrour of Taif, the Khabiti, the Khatwa of the South, and the Rayeh of Bisha, as well as the Ardah sword dance and the poetic Samri, Ithra reinforces the richness of Saudi cultural heritage. The inclusion of an open-air concert in Ithra’s Lush Garden featuring live musical performances alongside traditional folk ensembles further enhances the visitor experience. These events not only foster a deeper appreciation for Saudi culture but also position the Kingdom as a vibrant cultural hub, attracting tourists and cultural enthusiasts from around the world. The integration of technology and modern artistic expressions underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation and its ability to bridge the past with the future.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The 96th Saudi National Day celebrations at Ithra exemplify the Kingdom’s dedication to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, particularly in the areas of cultural enrichment and quality of life. By promoting cultural exchange and showcasing the nation’s artistic and historical legacy, Ithra contributes to the diversification of the economy and the enhancement of Saudi Arabia’s global image. As the Kingdom continues to advance under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, initiatives like this highlight the nation’s unwavering commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing a prosperous and innovative future. The events serve as a testament to the power of culture in driving national pride and global engagement, aligning perfectly with Vision 2030’s objective of creating a vibrant society and a thriving economy.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the theme of the 96th Saudi National Day celebrations at Ithra?

A1. The theme is “Glory Through Our People,” focusing on the evolution of culture and the blend of heritage and modernity.

Q2. When will the celebrations take place?

A2. The five-day program runs from September 22 to 26, 2026.

Q3. Where will the events be held?

A3. The events will be held at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) in Dhahran.

Q4. How many curated experiences are featured in the program?

A4. There are 36 curated and distinct experiences designed to engage visitors.

Q5. What is the “Inspired by Our Roots” workshop about?

A5. It examines the unique architectural languages of the Kingdom’s various regions.

Q6. What can visitors learn at the “Saudi Calligraphy Art” sessions?

A6. Guests can engage with the aesthetic power of Arabic script and learn about calligraphy.

Q7. What is “Pride Salute”?

A7. It is a motion-sensing experience that translates military ceremonial movements into digital art.

Q8. What is “Who Leads the Rhythm”?

A8. It is a sonic experiment blending traditional Saudi instruments with contemporary electronic sounds.

Q9. Which Saudi films will be screened?

A9. The festival features “The Destination,” “Marjouj,” and “Irtizaz,” among others.

Q10. What is “The Destination” about?

A10. It is a documentary showcasing the Kingdom’s transformative progress under Saudi Vision 2030.

Q11. What exhibition is at the Ithra museum?

A11. “Bedayat: The Beginning of the Saudi Art Movement” traces the evolution of Saudi art from the 1960s to the 1980s.

Q12. Which folk dances will be performed?

A12. The Majrour of Taif, the Khabiti, the Khatwa of the South, and the Rayeh of Bisha will be performed.

Q13. What is the Ardah?

A13. The Ardah is a traditional Saudi sword dance performed during celebrations.

Q14. What is the Samri?

A14. The Samri is a poetic, melodious performance featuring traditional rhythms and vocals.

Q15. Where will the open-air concert take place?

A15. The concert will be held in Ithra’s Lush Garden.

Q16. Who organizes the National Day celebrations at Ithra?

A16. Ithra, an initiative by Aramco, organizes the celebrations.

Q17. What is the significance of the military parade?

A17. It kicks off the celebrations and symbolizes national pride and unity.

Q18. How does the program integrate technology?

A18. Through experiences like “Pride Salute” and “Who Leads the Rhythm,” blending art and technology.

Q19. What is the goal of the celebrations?

A19. To invite visitors to explore the Kingdom’s origins and future ambitions under Vision 2030.

Q20. How does Ithra contribute to Saudi Vision 2030?

A20. By enriching lives through cultural programs that promote heritage and innovation, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals.

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