As Saudi Arabia marks its annual Founding Day on February 22, the occasion has evolved far beyond commemorative ceremonies and cultural showcases. In 2026, the holiday has become one of the Kingdom’s most anticipated shopping seasons, with retailers, airlines, and hospitality brands rolling out sweeping discounts that rival global sales events.
Discounts Across Every Sector
Major e-commerce platforms including Noon, Amazon Saudi Arabia, and Namshi have launched Founding Day campaigns offering up to 90 percent off on electronics, fashion, home goods, and beauty products. Physical retailers from Jarir Bookstore to Al Saif Kitchen are matching the momentum, with in-store promotions running throughout the long weekend.
The travel sector has joined in aggressively. Saudia Airlines, Flynas, and Flyadeal are offering discounted fares on both domestic and international routes, while hotel chains across Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla have introduced special Founding Day packages. Several restaurants and cafes are running limited-time menus inspired by traditional Saudi cuisine at reduced prices, turning dining into part of the national celebration.
A Growing Commercial Tradition
Founding Day, which commemorates the establishment of the First Saudi State in 1727 by Imam Muhammad ibn Saud, was officially designated as a national holiday in 2022. Since then, the commercial dimension of the occasion has grown each year, reflecting both the expansion of the Kingdom’s retail ecosystem and the increasing consumer appetite for seasonal deals.
Buy-now-pay-later services such as Tabby and Tamara have further fueled spending, offering flexible payment plans that make larger purchases more accessible during the holiday period. Coupon aggregators report that consumer engagement with Founding Day promotions has surpassed previous years by a significant margin.
Celebrations Meet Commerce
This year, Founding Day falls on a Sunday and coincides with the early days of Ramadan, creating a unique convergence of national pride and the holy month’s spirit of generosity. Cities across the Kingdom are hosting heritage festivals, fireworks displays, and cultural exhibitions, while shopping malls have decorated their interiors with traditional motifs and green-and-gold themes.
For millions of residents and visitors, the message is clear: Founding Day 2026 is not just a moment to honor the Kingdom’s nearly three centuries of history — it is also an opportunity to enjoy some of the best deals of the year.
