Edited by Anna Popper
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commemorates its National Day on 23 September each year, marking one of the most significant turning points in the nation’s history. On this day in 1932, a royal decree issued by the Founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud, proclaimed the unification of the country under the name Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, laying the foundations for the modern Saudi state.
To mark the 96th anniversary of this historic milestone, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Budapest proudly hosted an official reception at the Grand Hall of Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest. The event brought together distinguished guests, members of the diplomatic corps, Hungarian officials, representatives of the business, academic and cultural communities, as well as Saudi nationals and friends of Saudi Arabia.
The celebration commenced with the national anthems of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Hungary.
It was followed by an address of His Excellency Mr. Majed bin Abdulaziz Al-Abdan, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Hungary:
“Your Excellencies, Our Guest of Honour, Mr. Márk Radnai, Government Commissioner for a Humane and Functional Hungary and Vice President of the TISZA Party, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.
It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this cherished national occasion and to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation for joining us in celebrating the 96th anniversary of the National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. On this day, we recall with great pride the unification of the Kingdom under the leadership of the Founding King, Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud—may God have mercy on him—who laid the foundations of a strong state enjoying security, stability, and prosperity.
Since its founding, the Kingdom has continued its journey of development and progress. Today, under the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Kingdom is confidently advancing towards the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Launched in 2016, the Vision is built around three main pillars: a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. It links economic development with an improved quality of life, greater institutional efficiency, and expanded opportunities for citizens. The Kingdom is now moving from the launch of initiatives towards consolidating achievements, maximising their impact, and ensuring their sustainability.
This transformation is evident across economic, social, and development sectors, from diversifying sources of income and strengthening non-oil activities to improving the investment climate, empowering the private sector, and expanding into technology, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy.
The Kingdom has also consolidated its position as a global destination for business, investment, tourism, and international events, and is preparing to host two major international events: Expo 2030 in Riyadh and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Expo 2030 Riyadh, under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow” will provide a global platform for innovation, international cooperation, and the exchange of ideas, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to contribute to shaping a more sustainable and forward-looking future.
The 2034 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted by Saudi Arabia, will mark another historic milestone as the first 48-team edition of the tournament to take place in a single host country. It will showcase the Kingdom’s growing organisational capabilities and international ambitions, opening a new chapter in the history of world football.
Your Excellencies,
This economic development coincides with the Kingdom’s active political and diplomatic engagement, reflecting its Arab, Islamic, and international standing, as well as its membership in the G20.
The Kingdom continues to play a role in supporting security and stability, promoting dialogue and diplomacy, resolving disputes through peaceful means, and building partnerships based on common interests and mutual respect. It also contributes to energy security, humanitarian assistance, development initiatives, and sustainability.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
On this auspicious occasion, I am pleased to acknowledge the remarkable development and growth in relations between the Kingdom and Hungary across various fields.
Throughout more than three decades of diplomatic relations, our two countries have maintained steadfast ties rooted in friendship, mutual respect, and a shared desire to build an enduring partnership that serves the interests of our two friendly peoples. These bilateral relations have gained exceptional momentum in recent years. This progress continues to be supported by active communication between our senior officials, alongside the work of the Saudi-Hungarian Joint Economic Committee, Parliamentary Friendship Committees, and the Saudi-Hungarian Joint Business Council.
Our celebrations this year hold particular significance as they coincide with a meeting of the Saudi-Hungarian Business Council, bringing together key representatives of the business communities of both countries. We look forward to the Council’s role in strengthening partnerships and joint projects, as well as expanding trade and investment. Through these efforts, we aim to open new horizons for cooperation, particularly in technology and artificial intelligence, renewable energy, industry, food security, healthcare, tourism, logistics, and innovation.
Distinguished Guests,
National Day is not only an occasion to commemorate the founding of a great nation, but also an opportunity to look towards the future with confidence and ambition.
In conclusion, I reiterate my sincere thanks and appreciation to you all for sharing this precious occasion with us. I would also like to express my gratitude to the Embassy’s staff for their dedication and efforts in preparing this event.”
“May God protect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Hungary, and grant both countries continued security, stability, and prosperity. Thank you!”
A Saudi – Hungarian Cultural Program
Following the official part, the celebration continued with musical performances that added a memorable cultural dimension to the occasion.
Hungarian pianist and composer Maestro Gergely Bogányi – internationally acclaimed for his virtuosity and distinctive musical interpretations – captivated the audience with his performance. He developed a special artistic connection with Saudi Arabia. Inspired by a visit to AlUla in 2019, he composed the AlUla Symphonic Poem, reflecting the region’s extraordinary landscapes and cultural heritage. His work exemplifies the power of music to build bridges between nations.
The evening continued with concert by a Symphonic Orchestra, featuring Saudi vocal soloist Mr. Khayran Alzahrani – the first male opera singer and countertenor from his country. With his remarkable voice and expressive interpretation, he held the audience spellbound. His performance was met with enthusiastic applause, underscoring the audience’s appreciation for this exceptional musical experience. Presenting selections from his international repertoire, the artist created an unforgettable moment, demonstrating how music can transcend borders and bring people and nations closer together.
The fusion of Hungarian piano artistry and outstanding Saudi vocal performance embodied the very essence of the cultural exchange, international friendship and cooperation that characterised the celebration.
A Reception in the Spirit of Hospitality and Friendship
The cultural program was followed by a generous reception that offered guests a glimpse into traditional Saudi Arabian hospitality. An inviting array of culinary specialities and delicacies was served, including roasted lamb and fine sweets – most notably Saudi dates, treasured for their rich flavour and deep roots in the Kingdom’s culture as a gesture for welcoming and honouring guests.
The convivial atmosphere encouraged guests to enjoy the occasion, while engaging in lively conversations, exchanging views, strengthening professional relationships, and forging personal connections.
A Look Toward the Future
Saudi Arabia’s National Day celebration commemorated the Kingdom’s historic unification in 1932, while also highlighting its ongoing transformation under Saudi Vision 2030 and its growing international engagement. The event reflected the strengthening partnership and enduring friendship between Saudi Arabia and Hungary, characterised by diplomacy and cultural exchange.
This year’s official National Day theme, “Our Pride Lies in Our Nature” captures the essence of Saudi identity and the pride of its people in their heritage, values, and traditions, while embracing a forward-looking vision for generations to come.
Source: Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Budapest
Photos from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Budapest and Diplomatic Press Agency
