Saudi Arabia one of the fastest developing countries, with a blend culture of tradition and contemporary is a hub of festivals in the region; the following are events held annually. Old-fashioned parties based on time-honored traditions as well as contemporary events commented on worldwide are all there.
If you are planning to relocate to Saudi Arabia, getting an experience of these events can be very beneficial as you fit into this culture. Here are some of the festivals and events that should not be missed have been listed here together with some tips on relocation comfortably using the services of the Saudi Arabia relocation companies.
- Janadriyah National Festival
This is one of the most famous cultural Saudi festivals. Organized by the National Guard this festival has been marking Saudi traditions, arts, and heritage yearly. Visitors can explore traditional crafts, local cuisine, camel races, poetry readings, and folklore performances. The festival also includes the pavilions of regions of the Kingdom, where people exhibit their cultural attributes in accordance with their traditions.
Originally celebrated in February close to Riyadh, this festival lasts for two weeks and is attended by millions of visitors.
Even for the expats living in the Riyadh the Janadriyah National Festival is quite useful to get acquainted with Saudis traditions ad maybe even communicate. For those planning on relocation, companies that provide services regarding Saudi Arabia relocations will assist one easily move to Riyadh.
- Riyadh Season
The Riyadh Season is a contemporary celebration of entertainment that is distinctive of the Kingdom in terms of its openness to the global tourist and entertainment industry. This event consists of performances, concerts, plays, art displays, food fests and carnivals including those with themes. The scope and the range of proposed events classify this event among the most promising ones in the Middle East.
Riyadh Season usually runs from October to March and takes place across multiple zones in the city.
As one of the leading hubs in Saudi Arabia, Riyadh offers world-class amenities and services. Expats moving to this bustling city can benefit from the expertise of relocation companies in Riyadh to find accommodation and navigate local regulations.
- Jeddah Season
Like the Riyadh Season, the Jeddah Season is another festival crammed with art, music, and culture, but with a beachside focus. It is for this purpose that this event falls under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 promoting tourism and entertainment sector. One can attend outside broadcasts of concerts, firework, international food fair, and cultural troupes. Some of the them are Red Sea International Film Festival and the activities that include the outdoors adventure expeditions.
Jeddah Season normally kicks off in the summer, and what is better than having fun by the beach.
The city is popular among the expatriates due to its location in the kingdom providing easy access to the Red Sea. For anyone looking to move to this city, the best services that one needs for easy moving are obtained from the relocation companies in Jeddah.
- Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages
To the Muslims of the whole world Hajj and Umrah are significant religious journeys, and Saudi Arabia is the only country where the journeys can be made. Hajj also occurs in the month of Dhul Hijjah, and millions of Muslims pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah in order to perform this ritual. Hajj, however, can only be performed once a year in the Islamic moth of Zul-Hajj and it is a physically demanding task, although it is not as rewarding as Hajj, Umrah could be performed all year around.
Hajj is performed only in Dhul Hijjah month while Umrah can be performed at any time or any season out the year. As it will be appreciated, both events are mainly associated with Makkah and Madinah.
Planning to study or work or coming for religious purpose to Saudi Arabia? Thus it is possible to cooperate with reliable companies in Saudi Arabia that offer top-notch relocation services Saudi Arabia.
- King Abdulaziz Camel Festival
Camels are dear to the people of Saudi Arabia and it is portrayed in a big way in the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival that draws participants from different parts of the globe. This event lasts for one month and comprises pageantry of camel beauty contest, racing, and cultural show. Most interesting part of this festival is about Bedouin culture and the role which camels played in history of Saudi Arabia.
The festival is held annually in December in the desert near Riyadh.
Whether you are an expat or a local, this event offers a unique experience that connects you to the Kingdom’s rich history.
- Saudi National Day
The annual national Saudi day is conducted on the 23rd of September in every year since the unification of the kingdom in 1932. The day sees several activities in honour of the country, which include, parades, fireworks, concerts, cultural shows among others. Cities everywhere, from Riyadh to Jeddah, adorn their skyline and buildings in green – the color of the flag.
This festival is celebrated nationwide on September 23rd.
Saudi Arabia provides the expats with an opportunity to be part of the country’s pride and emotion on Saudi National Day.
- Diriyah Season
King Abdulaziz Conference in Diriyah Season presents Saudi Arabia’s history combined with the performances. Held in the city of Diriyah which is listed under the world heritage site by UNESCO this event is comprised of a blend of cultural events and sporting meeting competitions. This include horse racing events, FOMULA E, car racing events and cultural activities. The season also includes concerts and great dining events.
Diriyah Season is annually organised in November and December at Diriyah which is close to Riyadh.
Relocation services in Saudi Arabia can be especially useful if you are going to live close to Riyadh, which will help you to visit Diriyah and its events.
- Taif Rose Festival
Taif Rose Festival is held to mark the harvesting season of Taif’s rose, which is used in expensive perfumes because of its colour and aroma. Guests can take a trip to rose farms, engage in various workshop session and make purchase of various products with rose input.
Celebrated every April, this festival is celebrated in the city of Taif.
When you plan to move to Saudi Arabia, you should pay a visit to the smaller cities such as Taif so that you can explore the wonderful and marvelous features in the kingdom.
- Eid Celebrations – (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha)
Saudi Arabia has different varieties of Eid celebrations, but it all represents happiness, family gathering, and festivity. Eids are grandly celebrated including traditional feasts, fairs, and fireworks and many more.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, while Eid al-Adha coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage. Both are celebrated nationwide.
For expats, participating in Eid celebrations offers a deeper understanding of Saudi hospitality and culture.
Travel Tips for Festival Goers in Saudi Arabia
Plan Ahead and Check the Schedule: Saudi Arabia’s festivals are very organized but some may be on different dates or venues depending on the culture necessary or logistical requirements. There is nothing wrong with this information, but always double-check the dates and venue of any festival you decide to partake in by consulting the official websites or waiting on announcements from the Ministry of Tourism – Saudi Arabia. Most events need tickets, including concerts or some other special events, so buy your tickets in advance.
Understand Local Customs and Dress Codes: Saudi Arabia can be considered a traditional country, so giving regard to the local culture is paramount. Women should be expectant to wear the abaya outside while men should not wear short. At cultural fairs people are expected to wear traditional clothes; this makes the visitor to be easily taken for a local. Some events will have men and women sit or stand on different areas so be prepared for this especially in KSA festivals.
Be Aware of Religious Sensitivities: Religious practices are strictly respected in that nation being an Islamic nation hence the formations of KSA. No alcohol is allowed, and the use of affection in public places is also prohibited, prayer sessions are observed, that is, most shops and activities will be closed temporarily. To avoid interference with the traditional worshipping practice that is endemic of your host nations, coordinate your festival timetable with these prayer interrupts.
Stay Hydrated and Prepared for Weather: The weather in Saudi Arabia can be quite harsh; particularly during outdoor festivals. Summer days are very hot during the attractive months while winter nights where it may snow occasionally turn extremely cold. Bring some spare clothes and light weight clothing if you are in the summer period or if you are going to Taif, some snacks and sweets, a hat or a cap, sunglasses, a small kit for shaving, and slipper for the overnight trip, a flash light, some books, magazines, or personal entertainment materials, your USB charger, a facial towel, your first-aid kit, a small bag to put your wet things, a hand
Arrange Transportation Early: Some of the population still rely on public transport and during festivals results in little availability. Hiring a car is usually the most cost-effective means, but do make sure that you are aware of specific rules of the road in the country. Companies like Uber, Careem are active in major cities like Riyadh & Jeddah etc. they get fully booked sometimes during functions thus you have to arrange in advance.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s festivals and events offer an immersive experience of its culture, history, and modern developments. Whether you are a visitor or an expat, these celebrations provide unique window into the heart of the Kingdom. To make your move stress-free, partner with trusted relocation services in Saudi Arabia. With their support, you can fully enjoy the vibrant events and traditions that make Saudi Arabia a truly exceptional destination.