The story of Saudi Arabia goes back thousands of years, rooted in the ancient civilisations and nomadic tribes that shaped the cultural and social fabric of the Arabian Peninsula. Yet the most pivotal transformation came with the founding of the First Saudi State — a moment that set in motion a legacy of leadership, unity and nation-building. Today, the Kingdom stands as a political and economic powerhouse both on regional and international levels.
This article traces the Kingdom’s key historical milestones, from the establishment of Diriyah to the unification of the nation and its rise as a modern state.
Beginnings: Diriyah and the First Saudi State
The story begins in 1446 CE (850 AH), when Mani‘ bin Rabi‘ah Al-Muraidi founded Diriyah. Far more than a modest town, Diriyah became the beginning of the Al Saud dynasty. By 1727 CE (1139 AH), under the leadership of Imam Muhammad bin Saud, it emerged as the capital of the First Saudi State.
This era saw Diriyah grow from a local political centre into the heart of a state seeking to unite nearby tribes and lands. Though the First Saudi State came to an end in 1818 CE (1233 AH) following the campaign of Muhammad Ali Pasha’s forces, the Saudi vision endured — laying the groundwork for a return.
Revival: The Second Saudi State
After the fall of the first Saudi state, its legacy resurfaced in 1824 CE (1240 AH), when Imam Turki bin Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Saud restored Saudi rule, giving rise to the Second Saudi State. For several decades, the state focused on rebuilding society, fortifying stability and asserting authority across the region.
Despite its resilience, internal and external challenges eventually led to its fall in 1891 CE (1309 AH). But the vision of unification was not lost — the stage was being set for an even more powerful resurgence.
A New Era: The Third Saudi State
The turning point came on 15 January 1902 CE (5 Shawwal 1319 AH), when King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud reclaimed Riyadh. This decisive act marked the foundation of the Third Saudi State. Over the next three decades, King Abdulaziz expanded his rule across the Arabian Peninsula, bringing together its diverse regions under a single banner.
In 1932 CE (1351 AH), a royal decree formally declared the unification of the land as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia — the culmination of decades of determined leadership, diplomacy and vision.
More Than a Declaration: The Unification of the Kingdom
The official unification on 23 September 1932 was more than a political milestone; it was the dawn of a new era. Over thirty years of campaigns and negotiations were required to bring together the Kingdom’s vast territories. For King Abdulaziz, unity was not the end goal but a means to achieve stability, prosperity and advancement.
This drive to build a modern state set in motion reforms in education, economy and governance, while deepening the Kingdom’s role in the wider region and on the international stage. To honour its origins, 22 February has since been designated as the official Founding Day, commemorating the establishment of the First Saudi State.
Institutions and Governance
Following unification, the Kingdom embarked on building a modern system of governance and developing its administrative system. Key institutions were established, including the Council of Ministers, the Consultative Council, and vital ministries such as Foreign Affairs, Finance and Defence.
The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (today the Saudi Central Bank) was founded to regulate the financial system and issue the national currency. Alongside economic reforms, attention was given to the service of pilgrims and the expansion of the Two Holy Mosques, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s status as the heart of the Islamic world.
Modernisation and Economic Growth
Education was central to King Abdulaziz’s vision. Schools and libraries were established and regulations introduced to guide an emerging national education system. Knowledge and scientific research began to flourish across the Kingdom.
The true economic turning point came with the discovery and production of oil by King Abdulaziz. This resource propelled Saudi Arabia onto the world stage as one of its leading oil producers, fuelling infrastructure projects and trade links that positioned the nation as a key strategic partner internationally.
Internal trade thrived and Saudi Arabia attracted international investments and technologies, resulting in rapid modernisation that transformed the Kingdom’s economy into one of the strongest in the region.
Balancing Tradition and Modernity
Despite rapid growth, the Kingdom never relinquished its cultural and religious heritage. King Abdulaziz sought harmony between tradition and progress — modernising cities and villages while safeguarding customs and values.
This balance made the Kingdom a model for states that managed to keep pace with technological and economic developments while preserving their historical and cultural roots. Ensuring security, from borders to city centres, was central to this stability, fostering confidence and peace of mind for its citizens.
Global Relations and Influence
Saudi Arabia quickly positioned itself on the international stage. In 1945 CE (1364 AH), it became a founding member of both the Arab League and the United Nations. The Kingdom has since played an active role in supporting Arab and Muslim causes, championing independence movements and promoting regional and global stability.
Through diplomacy and strategic alliances, Saudi Arabia has built a reputation as a vital player in international affairs.
A Legacy of Continuity and Progress
The history of Saudi Arabia is not simply a tale of unification — it is a narrative of perseverance, resilience and growth. From the First Saudi State to the modern Kingdom, Saudi Arabia has consistently demonstrated its ability to overcome challenges and adapt to change.
Today, with Vision 2030 guiding its path, the Kingdom is shaping a future of sustainable development, diversification and global influence — cementing its place as a nation where heritage and ambition move forward hand in hand.