Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast)
Season or date: 1st of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar
The most joyous religious celebration marking the end of Ramadan. Gift-giving and family gatherings take place.
Festivals in Saudi Arabia
Discover traditional festivals and celebrations of this country
Festivals
Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice)
Season or date: 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar
A charitable festival where livestock are slaughtered and distributed to the poor, coinciding with the final day of Hajj pilgrimage.
Saudi Founding Day
Season or date: February 22
A new holiday commemorating the recapture of Riyadh (1727). Military parades and fireworks are held.
Saudi National Day
Season or date: September 23
A national holiday celebrating the kingdom's establishment in 1932. Buildings across the country are lit up in green.
Janadriyah Heritage and Culture Festival
Season or date: Annually in winter
A large-scale festival of traditional arts and nomadic culture held near Riyadh.
Public holidays
- Founding Day (February 22)
- Saudi National Day (September 23)
- Eid al-Fitr
- Eid al-Adha
- Islamic New Year
- Mawlid (Prophet's Birthday)