Saudis and expatriates were racing to purchase on Sunday Saudi flags in preparation for National Day.

Several activities and cultural programs have been lined up to mark the occasion.

The EP municipality has decorated cities such as Dammam, Alkhobar, Abqaiq and Al-Nuairya with portraits, paintings and slogans.

“We have posted 28,000 Saudi flags in streets across the Dammam-Khobar Corniche,” said EP spokesman Muhammad Al-Sufyan.

Fahd Al-Jubair, EP mayor, said: “On this day, we recall the achievements of the previous leaders and current leaders who have led this country on the road to progress and development. We praise Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and Crown Prince Salman who endeavor to make this a happy and safe nation.”

Some 6,000 fireworks will light up the skies at 8:00 p.m. at the King Abdullah waterfront.

Festivities will take place at King Faisal Park.

There will be a national Operetta. Streets, shops and cars have been painted in Saudi national colors.

Al-Jubair stressed that the EP Municipality is making efforts to ensure that the day is a success.