Three centuries ago, one of the greatest nations in history was founded. The journey of glory began with the establishment of the First Saudi State in 1139 AH (1727 AD). This was not merely the founding of a country but the beginning of an era of unity and stability in the Arabian Peninsula. Despite challenges, this journey continued until the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia became one of the most prominent nations in the world today.
1. The First Saudi State (1139 AH – 1233 AH / 1727 AD – 1818 AD): The Beginning and Expansion
In 1139 AH (1727 AD), Imam Muhammad bin Saud (may Allah have mercy on him) founded the First Saudi State in Diriyah amid an unstable Arabian Peninsula plagued by division and tribal conflicts. He allied with Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdulwahhab (may Allah have mercy on him) to establish political and religious stability, strengthening the new state’s power. The state’s borders expanded, trade and agriculture flourished, and Diriyah became the center of governance. However, this growing power attracted the attention of the Ottoman Empire, which sent a military campaign led by Ibrahim Pasha to destroy it. In 1233 AH (1818 AD), Diriyah fell, marking the end of the First Saudi State, but the idea of the state endured.
2. The Second Saudi State (1240 AH – 1309 AH / 1824 AD – 1891 AD): Restoration and Continuation
After the fall of Diriyah, the Saudis did not cease their efforts to restore their state. In 1240 AH (1824 AD), Imam Turki bin Abdullah (may Allah have mercy on him) succeeded in reclaiming power and founded the Second Saudi State, making Riyadh its new capital. The state continued to establish stability, but internal disputes and conflicts over succession among the ruling family weakened it, leading to its downfall when Riyadh fell to the Al Rashid family in 1309 AH (1891 AD).
3. The Third Saudi State (1319 AH – Present / 1902 AD – Present): Unification of the Kingdom
After years of exile, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud (may Allah have mercy on him) returned with his men on 5 Shawwal 1319 AH (January 15, 1902 AD) and launched a campaign to reclaim Riyadh. This event marked a turning point in the kingdom’s history. King Abdulaziz embarked on a mission to unify various regions, and after years of struggle, he succeeded in uniting Najd, Hijaz, and Al-Ahsa. On 21 Jumada Al-Awwal 1351 AH (September 23, 1932 AD), he declared the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. From that day, the kingdom entered a new era of progress and prosperity.
4. Saudi Arabia Today: A Vision for the Future
After decades of growth and advancement, Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the world’s most powerful economic and political nations. Under wise leadership and strategic decisions, the country is experiencing rapid progress in various fields, including technology, industry, education, and the economy.
One of the key initiatives shaping the nation’s future is Saudi Vision 2030, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (may Allah protect him). The vision aims to diversify the economy, reduce dependence on oil, and invest in technology, tourism, and renewable energy. This vision is a comprehensive development project striving to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for innovation and progress.
The kingdom has also witnessed remarkable growth in infrastructure, with major projects such as NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project, aimed at enhancing tourism, entertainment, and economic opportunities. Additionally, there is significant investment in education and research, with thousands of students studying at top global universities to contribute to the nation’s development.
In the field of energy and sustainability, Saudi Arabia is leading major initiatives such as the Saudi Green Initiative, which aims to reduce carbon emissions and expand solar and wind energy projects, making the country a key player in renewable energy.
All these achievements confirm that Saudi Arabia is not only the heir to a rich history but also a modern, progressive nation looking toward a future of greater prosperity and sustainability. Under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz (may Allah protect him) and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (may Allah protect him), the kingdom continues to strive for global leadership.
Conclusion
Today, more than 300 years after the founding of the First Saudi State, the kingdom has proven itself to be a strong and resilient nation capable of overcoming challenges and maintaining continuous growth. From the moment Imam Muhammad bin Saud (may Allah have mercy on him) laid the foundation in Diriyah to the present era under King Salman bin Abdulaziz (may Allah protect him) and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (may Allah protect him), Saudi Arabia continues to write new chapters of success and progress.
This journey was not easy—it was filled with challenges and sacrifices. Yet, through the grace of Allah, wise leadership, unwavering determination, and the unity of its people, Saudi Arabia has become a model of unity, strength, and ambition. Today, with an ambitious vision and solid future plans, the kingdom stands at a new crossroads, where the glory of history meets the brightness of the future, continuing its march toward global leadership.
Saudi Foundation Day reaffirms that the kingdom, which has withstood challenges, is always capable of advancing and growing. It is a day to take pride in our past and prepare for an even brighter future.
The sources on which the article is based:
سعوديبيديا. (بدون تاريخ). تاريخ المملكة العربية السعودية. تم الاسترجاع في 22 فبراير 2025
وزارة الخارجية السعودية. (بدون تاريخ). تاريخ المملكة. تم الاسترجاع في 22 فبراير 2025
دارة الملك عبدالعزيز. (2023). يوم التأسيس السعودي – دليل تاريخي. تم الاسترجاع في 22 فبراير 2025
