# Saudi National Day 96 preparations and celebrations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/saudi-national-day-96-preparations
> Updated: 2026-09-22T22:51:54.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 4.

Preparations and celebrations for the 96th Saudi National Day on September 23, 2026, have progressed across several regions.

In Makkah, the Holy Capital Municipality has finalized field and operational readiness to accommodate visitors. The municipality has prepared a network of 294 parks, 83 squares, 184 playgrounds, and various pedestrian paths. Maintenance efforts included tree pruning, seasonal flower planting, irrigation repairs, and inspections of lighting and playground equipment to ensure safety. Public spaces have been decorated with national identities to foster a festive atmosphere.

In Diriyah, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior, organized a military parade and equestrian procession. Soldiers on horseback marched toward Wadi Hanifa via Imam Abdulaziz bin Saud Road, an event designed to evoke historical values of unity linked to the unification of the Kingdom by King Abdulaziz. This was accompanied by a bicycle parade held in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense, alongside festivities in the historic At-Turaif district.

Other regional activities include urban decorations in the Northern Borders Province by the Turaif Municipality, and festivities in AlUla featuring Saudi Ardah dances and live music. Additionally, the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) has engaged students through its ‘In the Footsteps of the Founder’ initiative.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-22: Makkah Municipality prepares parks and sites for Saudi National Day

Makkah Municipality has finalized preparations for Saudi National Day, including decorating and maintaining 294 parks and various public spaces to host celebratory events for residents and visitors.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/makkah-municipality-prepares-parks-and-sites-for-saudi-national-day

### 2026-09-20: Diriyah hosts cultural celebrations and book launch for Saudi National Day

Diriyah is celebrating Saudi National Day by honoring King Abdulaziz's legacy, alongside the launch of ‘The Riyadh Book’ by Princess Sura bint Saud to showcase the capital's cultural heritage.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/diriyah-hosts-cultural-celebrations-and-book-launch-for-saudi-national-day

### 2026-09-17: Turaif Municipality prepares for Saudi National Day celebrations

Turaif Municipality is decorating the city with flags, lights, and green ribbons to prepare for Saudi National Day celebrations, enhancing the urban landscape in the Northern Borders Province.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/turaif-municipality-prepares-for-saudi-national-day-celebrations

### 2026-09-12: Holy Capital Municipality announces Saudi National Day 96 events

The Holy Capital Municipality announced a diverse program of arts, heritage, and sports events in Makkah to celebrate the 96th Saudi National Day on September 23, 2026.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/holy-capital-municipality-announces-saudi-national-day-96-events

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Cite as: Saudi National Day 96 preparations and celebrations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/saudi-national-day-96-preparations