The Kingdom’s National Day is an event of celebration for the large expatriate community as much as it is for the citizens. They participate in activities earmarked for the occasion by Saudi authorities.

Syed A. Quadeer Khalid, an Indian expatriate, told Arab News that he and his friends celebrate the Saudi National Day the way they observe their own country’s Independence Day.

“We are eager to see various events that are organized to mark the big day. They include raising the national flag and staging cultural programs,” he added.

Mohammed Turkistani, a Saudi businessman, said celebrating the National Day is very important. Such celebrations demonstrate our love and respect for the Kingdom and its leadership.

Walid Abdul Majeed, a Saudi photographer, said he loves to cover his country’s National Day events at different places by taking colorful pictures of children and people.

“Celebrating the National Day with enthusiasm is enjoyable, especially when we see broad smiles on the faces of our children, even the children with special need. On such special occasions, official agencies and the private sector organize different events that unite us under one flag making us realize our national and social responsibilities,” he said.

Umm Majid, mother of Majd, a disabled child, said that whenever he joins such events he feels proud because his participation reflects his love for the country.

“Majd loves to participate and celebrate the National Day by wearing green color, holding the national flag and sharing the happiness with other disabled children. Majd also loves to participate in different activities. It is very important that he knows about his country and leadership,” she said.

N. A. Mirza, another expatriate living here for the past 40 years, said Saudi Arabia is a story of an arduous, exciting and glorious journey that needs to be told again and again. Created by the determined and far-sighted visionary, King Abdulaziz, the country has been enjoying stability and security.

“My heartiest congratulations on the generous, compassionate and visionary Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on its 84th National Day,” he said.

Husam Ali, a Saudi dentist, and his friend Ahmed say they love to celebrate the National Day, especially by doing some voluntary work on the day.

“It’s very important to celebrate the National Day as Saudi Arabia is not only important for us but for the whole Muslim world. Celebrating the National Day with all the nationalities residing in Saudi Arabia shows the unity and love of everyone for the Kingdom,” he said.

“We are proud to be Saudi and celebrate the National Day with pride,” he added.

Fouzia Fazal, a Pakistani expatriate, says the Saudi National Day also makes everyone proud.

The success of this country is evident from its track record of development aside of course from peace and tranquility that prevails.

Taj Bano, another Pakistani national, said some nations like the Kingdom have become great because of the determination and struggle of their visionary leaders.