Food, fireworks and family-friendly fun – here’s where to get your patriotism on.
There ain’t no party like a Saudi National Day 2026 party. The event is one of the Kingdom’s most important celebrations, and marks the birth of the country. So, it’s time to get your patriotism on – green can be found on buildings, balloons and baked goods, and the streets are filled with flags, fireworks and festivities.
In 1932, the unification of the Kingdom of Najd and Hijaz took place, and the nation became the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the family of King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, of the House of Saud. Known as “Al Youm Al Watani” in Arabic, Saudi National Day falls on 23 September each year.
The theme for the 96th Saudi National Day 2026 is “Our Pride Is in Our Nature”, which celebrates characteristics associated with Saudi culture, including courage, vision, authenticity, determination, generosity and hospitality.
Since it’s a public holiday, look out for special events in compounds, restaurants, malls, and stadiums. Here are the best things to do on Saudi National Day 2026.
96th Saudi National Day Celebrations
The General Entertainment Authority will bring pomp and pageantry to the proceedings on 23 September. Expect breathtaking fireworks, laser animations, and drone shows that illuminate Riyadh’s skies. The celebrations will take place around iconic spots, including Boulevard City, King Abdullah Financial District and Umm Ajlan Park. The sky will be lit with aerial stunts by the Saudi Hawks, while the grounds will be buzzing with heritage villages, musical performances by the National Orchestra and Choir, and engaging family-friendly activities across the city. Plus, there will be parades of classic cars and horses.
Where: Boulevard City, KAFD, and Umm Ajlan Park, Riyadh
When: 23 September 2026
Contact: https://www.gea.gov.sa
Desert Rock Resort
For a National Day escape surrounded by dramatic mountains, Desert Rock combines Saudi traditions with one of the Red Sea region’s most striking settings. Guests can experience falconry, henna and face painting, spend time in a Saudi Majlis and meet Jerry, the resort’s resident camel, alongside an Arabian stallion. Music comes courtesy of Saudi DJs, while dining and traditional hospitality continue the celebrations into the evening. Those turning the occasion into a longer getaway can save 40 per cent on villa rates when staying for at least two nights, including daily breakfast. Rates for the National Day offer start from approximately SAR 4,200 per night.
Where: Desert Rock Resort, Umluj, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 23 to 30 September 2026
Contact: www.desertrock.sa
Fairmont Ramla Riyadh
Turn Saudi National Day 2026 into a city staycation at Fairmont Ramla Riyadh, the residential-style property on King Fahad Road. The hotel’s celebratory package includes daily breakfast at Jones the Grocer, plus a SAR 300 dining voucher to use across participating food and beverage outlets. Traditional Saudi music adds a cultural note to the lobby during the holiday period. With spacious serviced residences rather than conventional hotel rooms, the property is particularly appealing for families or groups planning a longer break in the capital. The offer runs across National Day week, allowing guests to extend the celebrations beyond 23 September and explore Riyadh at a more relaxed pace.
Where: Fairmont Ramla, King Fahad Road, Al Sahafah District, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
When: 20 to 27 September 2026
Contact: www.fairmont.com
Fairmont Riyadh
Dining, wellness and family stays are all part of the National Day programme at Fairmont Riyadh. The 365 Restaurant will serve a celebratory buffet featuring Saudi favourites alongside international dishes, priced at SAR 196 per person. Those looking for some downtime can save 25 per cent on selected treatments at Fairmont Spa, while families can take advantage of 50 per cent off a second room during the holiday period. Located at Business Gate, the hotel provides an easy base for exploring the capital while offering plenty to do without leaving the property.
Where: Business Gate, Qurtubah, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
When: 21 to 26 September 2026
Contact: www.fairmont.com
Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre
Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre is marking National Day through dining, Saudi hospitality and wellness. Café Boulud will serve celebratory menus on 23 September, with breakfast priced at SAR 96, a three-course lunch at SAR 196 and dinner at SAR 396 per person. Obaya Lounge joins the occasion with Saudi sweets and live entertainment, while Tonic Bar serves limited-edition drinks inspired by the holiday. At The Spa, a SAR 996 National Day experience includes a 60-minute massage, 30-minute facial, cake and Arabic coffee. Its location inside the Kingdom Centre also places guests in one of Riyadh’s most recognisable landmarks.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, King Fahd Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh
When: 23 September to 30 September 2026
Contact: www.fourseasons.com
Four Seasons Resort AMAALA
Saudi National Day 2026 provides another reason to discover the newly opened Four Seasons Resort AMAALA, where Red Sea views meet an extensive programme of dining, wellness and recreation. Holiday dining includes a Saudi Majlis Afternoon Tea at Oasis Lounge for SAR 200 per person and a Flavours of the Kingdom lunch at MAA Social for SAR 350. Guests staying at the resort can explore its pools, beaches and water sports or spend time at HYLIAA, the property’s wellness centre. An introductory resort offer also provides 15 per cent savings on bed-and-breakfast rates for stays of at least two nights, making the long National Day weekend an appealing opportunity for a first visit.
Where: Four Seasons AMAALA at Triple Bay, Amaala
When: 23 September 2026
Contact: www.fourseasons.com
Four Seasons Resort at Shura Island
Shura Island’s Four Seasons Resort and Residences Red Sea celebrates National Day with four days devoted to Saudi food, music and traditions. A regional brunch explores culinary influences from across the Kingdom’s 13 regions, while live oud music, henna artistry and traditional performances add to the programme. Guests can also discover Saudi coffee culture through the 8 Peaks of Arabia experience, developed with Jazean Saudi Coffee Company. Performances draw on traditions including Samri, Al Khubaiti and Al Mizmar, creating a celebration rooted firmly in regional heritage. Beyond the festivities, the island resort offers private beaches, water activities and access to the wider natural landscapes of the Red Sea.
Where: Four Seasons Resort & Residences Red Sea, Shura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 23 to 26 September 2026
Contact: www.fourseasons.com
Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya
Saudi traditions take centre stage at Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, where the National Day programme combines food, music and family activities. Guests can experience a traditional Majlis, Saudi Ardah performances and live oud music, alongside henna, face painting and children’s crafts. The celebrations extend outdoors to Al Nakheel terrace, which hosts a Saudi Street Style dining experience featuring regional flavours for SAR 96 per person. Sokoun Spa provides a quieter alternative, with a 60-minute massage priced at SAR 496 and a Moroccan Hammam combined with a massage for SAR 796. With activities spread across three days, the hotel offers several ways to celebrate in central Riyadh.
Where: Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, Olaya Street, Al Olaya, Riyadh
When: 22 to 24 September 2026
Contact: www.hyatt.com
InterContinental The Red Sea Resort
A National Day break at InterContinental The Red Sea Resort combines island downtime with activities on land and water. Located on Shura Island, the resort offers access to Red Sea adventures operated by specialists including WAMA, Galaxea and Akun, covering everything from water sports and diving to outdoor exploration. Families are well catered for with dedicated children’s programming and recreational facilities, while quieter moments can be spent beside the pools or exploring the resort’s wellness experiences. The National Day stay is designed around a longer island escape, pairing daily breakfast with ample time to discover Shura’s beaches, reefs and recreational facilities during the four-day holiday period.
Where: InterContinental Resort Red Sea, Shura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 23 to 26 September 2026
Contact: www.ihg.com
Makkah Clock Royal Tower, a Fairmont Hotel
For those spending National Day in Makkah, Fairmont’s landmark hotel offers a stay centred on proximity to Al Masjid Al Haram. Located within the Abraj Al Bait complex, Makkah Clock Royal Tower provides direct access to the Holy Mosque and rooms with remarkable views towards the Holy Kaaba. Its Saudi National Day 2026 offer rewards longer stays, with savings of 10 per cent for two nights, 15 per cent for three or four nights and 20 per cent for stays of five nights or more. Complimentary breakfast and health club access are included, making the package particularly well suited to guests combining the national holiday with a spiritual visit to Makkah.
Where: Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel, Abraj Al Bait Complex, Makkah
When: Booking dates from 15 May to 15 September, for stays between 15 May and 30 December 2026
Contact: www.fairmont.com
Mansard Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Hotel
Mansard Riyadh is celebrating with The Mansard 96 Escape, a stay package filled with subtle references to the Kingdom’s 96th National Day. Guests receive breakfast for two at Sadelle’s Riyadh, a National Day welcome amenity and one hour of complimentary access to the thermal zone at L’Occitane Spa. The package also includes 10.96 per cent savings on spa treatments and dining at both Sadelle’s and Carbone, another playful nod to the anniversary. Set in Al Rabea District, the hotel’s Parisian-inspired architecture provides an elegant base for a Riyadh staycation, while its strong restaurant line-up means much of the holiday can be enjoyed without leaving the property.
Where: Mansard Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Hotel, Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Road, Riyadh
When: 18 to 26 September 2026
Contact: www.radissonhotels.com
Miraval The Red Sea
Wellness takes priority at Miraval The Red Sea. The adults-only Shura Island retreat will mark Saudi National Day 2026 with its Celebrate in Balance programme. The experience incorporates Saudi heritage through storytelling, coffee rituals and creative workshops, while guests can choose from more than 20 wellness activities each day. Dining across Rosemary, Palm Court Café and Coral Cove is included, with regional flavours appearing throughout the holiday programme. Packages start from SAR 2,500++ per night for single occupancy and SAR 3,500++ for two guests, with SAR 796 in daily resort credit per person for additional spa or challenge-course experiences. Round-trip transfers from Red Sea International Airport are also included.
Where: Miraval The Red Sea, Shura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 20 to 26 September 2026
Contact: www.miravalresorts.com
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
For a private-island celebration, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, combines Saudi culture with the natural beauty of the Ummahat Islands. National Day programming includes cultural entertainment and a special dinner at Sita on 23 September, along with stargazing, guided mangrove exploration and daily wellness activities. Families can join children’s programming and optional in-villa dining experiences, while snorkelling excursions reveal the surrounding coral reefs. Each stay includes accommodation in a Reserve Villa, daily breakfast for two and a replenished minibar, with a Personal Host overseeing the experience. The superb waterfront resort was recently ranked as the best hotel in the Middle East by the annual FACT Hotel List.
Where: Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Ummahat Islands, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 22 to 26 September 2026
Contact: www.ritzcarlton.com
Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina, Club and Spa
Celebrate beside the Red Sea at Park Hyatt Jeddah, where Nafoura Restaurant is hosting a special Saudi National Day 2026 brunch. The waterfront venue looks across the water towards King Fahad Fountain and provides a relaxed setting for friends and families gathering on 23 September. The occasion combines breakfast and brunch elements with the restaurant’s international and regional approach to dining, accompanied by the views and landscaped surroundings for which the Al Hamra property is known. Running from early afternoon until 5pm, the celebration makes a strong choice for anyone seeking a food-focused National Day experience in Jeddah without committing to an overnight stay.
Where: Park Hyatt Jeddah, Al Hamra District, Southern Corniche, Jeddah
When: 23 September 2026 from 1pm to 5pm
Contact: www.hyatt.com
Radisson Collection Residences, Riyadh
Radisson Collection Residences, Riyadh is turning green for National Day, with themed lighting and floral displays setting the scene throughout the property. Special suite rates start at SAR 996 plus taxes for a one-bedroom residence, SAR 1,196 for two bedrooms and SAR 1,396 for three bedrooms, providing practical options for families and groups. The spa joins the 96th anniversary theme with a 96-minute package priced at SAR 996, combining a 50-minute Signature Massage with a 46-minute Classic Facial. Longer-term wellness enthusiasts can also access reduced National Day membership rates, while the spacious apartment-style accommodation makes the property ideal for an extended Riyadh staycation.
Where: Radisson Collection Residences, Al Imam Saud Ibn Abdul Aziz Branch Road, Riyadh
When: 23 September 2026
Contact: www.radissonhotels.com
Rosewood AMAALA
Rosewood AMAALA is celebrating its first Saudi National Day with Saudi-inspired menus, Arabian artistry and its daily Sukūn Hour, staged across spaces including Wadi Library, Saha and the shoreline. The accompanying stay offer includes flexible check-in and check-out, while selected private pool suites and villas receive complimentary round-trip transfers from Red Sea International Airport or Al Wajh Airport. Villa guests also receive daily breakfast at Olea, with a minimum two-night stay required. Located where the Tabuk mountains meet the Red Sea, the resort combines art, wellness and nature with a distinctly Saudi sense of place.
Where: Rosewood AMAALA, Triple Bay, AMAALA, Saudi Arabia
When: Celebrations from 23 to 27 September 2026
Contact: www.rosewoodhotels.com
Shebara Resort
Few National Day settings are as distinctive as Shebara, where mirrored villas rise above the turquoise waters of the Red Sea. Across four days, the private-island resort will showcase Saudi culture through live qanun and oud performances, Saudi coffee workshops and Najdi door painting. Wellness activities range from sunset meditation to a Full Moon Sound Bath, while the spa’s Date Palm Ritual takes inspiration from local ingredients and traditions. Active guests can join beach challenges and padel matches before dinner at Lunara. Those staying three nights or more receive 20 per cent off villa rates alongside daily breakfast for two, making the celebration an enticing excuse for an extended island escape.
Where: Shebara Resort, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 23 to 26 September 2026
Contact: https://shebara.sa
Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea
Surrounded by desert rather than coastline, Six Senses Southern Dunes offers a very different Red Sea escape for National Day. The resort’s holiday package includes 15 per cent off the Best Flexible Rate for stays of at least two nights, with prices starting from SAR 3,000 per night. Guests receive daily breakfast, a 60-minute spa treatment for two, Mango Afternoon Tea and poolside mocktails. Families can also make use of a children’s pool party and activities ranging from pizza-making to the resort’s Fruit Alchemy Lab. Complimentary shared airport transfers complete the offer, allowing guests to focus on the desert scenery, architecture and extensive wellness facilities during their stay.
Where: Six Senses Southern Dunes, Umluj, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 20 to 30 September 2026
Contact: www.sixsenses.com
Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre
To celebrate Saudi National Day 2026, Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre will host a programme of cultural activities, dining and staycation offers from 22 to 26 September 2026. On 23 September, festivities include children’s activities, a Saudi National Day cake-cutting, Sofitel’s Candle Ritual and a traditional Saudi Ardha performance. Zéline will serve a Saudi-themed buffet, while La Matinée will offer local-inspired creations, Saudi coffee, dates and chocolates. The hotel will also be illuminated in green for the occasion. Staycation packages start from SAR 999 and include dining credit, selected discounts, early check-in and late check-out, with additional complimentary-night benefits available for longer stays.
Where: Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre, Ar Rahmaniyyah, Riyadh
When: 22 to 26 September 2026
Contact: https://sofitel.accor.com
The Chedi Hegra
Saudi history provides the backdrop at The Chedi Hegra, set inside AlUla’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its Threads of Heritage, Spirit of Tomorrow programme combines Ardha performances, falconry, camel and Arabian horse encounters with an evening laser and light show beneath the desert sky. Dining comes in the form of a modern Saudi sharing menu at Prima Classe for SAR 396++ per person, while the 96-minute Kingdom Wellness Ritual costs SAR 696. Guests staying overnight can book the Emerald Treasures of the Kingdom package from SAR 1,200++ per night, which incorporates breakfast, heritage activities and experiences exploring Hegra’s extraordinary landscape.
Where: The Chedi Hegra, Hegra UNESCO World Heritage Site, AlUla
When: 23 Septemebr 2026
Contact: www.ghmhotels.com
The Red Sea EDITION
The Red Sea EDITION is taking a contemporary approach to National Day on Shura Island. Its celebratory stay pairs accommodation in a guest room or suite with daily breakfast at Central, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant. The centrepiece is EDITION Sufra: A Saudi National Day Feast, where live cooking stations showcase flavours associated with the Kingdom. Guests can balance the dining with complimentary access to the Recovery Dome and a daily schedule of fitness and wellness classes. The result suits travellers who want National Day traditions delivered through the energetic, design-driven lens associated with EDITION, while Shura Island’s beaches and surrounding reefs provide plenty of reasons to extend the stay.
Where: The Red Sea EDITION, Shura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 23 Septemebr 2026
Contact: www.editionhotels.com
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort marks National Day with A Timeless Tribute to the Kingdom, combining island luxury with regional food and entertainment. Guests receive daily breakfast for two at Nesma Restaurant, while 23 September features a special dinner with Saudi specialities, live cooking stations and traditional performances. Families can make use of dedicated Children’s Club activities, and complimentary group padel and tennis sessions add an active element to the break. Signature St. Regis Butler Service is included throughout the stay. Located on Ummahat Island, the resort is particularly suited to couples and families looking to swap busy city celebrations for beaches, clear water and a slower National Day escape.
Where: The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Ummahat Islands, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 22 to 26 September 2026
Contact: www.marriott.com
Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay Resort is celebrating Saudi National Day 2026 with food, music and family activities on the Red Sea coast. Guests are welcomed with Saudi coffee and themed treats, while the programme includes live music and cultural performances. Luki Luma hosts a Saudi buffet led by Chef Ali Abdullah Alali on 23 and 25 September, while wellness treatments and activities provide a more relaxing way to mark the holiday. Younger guests can join dedicated arts, crafts and games, and the wider programme also makes use of the property’s beachside setting. Visitors staying for at least two nights receive 20 per cent off room rates, together with daily breakfast.
Where: Turtle Bay Resort, Hanak, The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
When: 23 to 26 September 2026
Contact: https://turtlebayhotel.sa
W Riyadh – KAFD
One of Riyadh’s newest hotels is putting an energetic spin on Saudi National Day. At W Riyadh, SIRA presents A Taste of the Kingdom, a buffet combining Saudi culinary traditions with the restaurant’s Latin American influences. W Lounge reworks afternoon tea through Saudi flavours, while WET Deck hosts Poolside for the Kingdom in collaboration with LifeLab. The sunset wellness session includes Pulse and Stretch classes, mocktails, light bites and a live DJ. Located in the King Abdullah Financial District, the recently opened hotel suits anyone after a more contemporary celebration, combining food, fitness and music within one of Riyadh’s fastest-growing lifestyle destinations.
Where: W Riyadh – KAFD, King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh
When: 23 September 2026
Contact: www.marriott.com