The celebration of the Saudi Founding Day at the Palace of Governance in Riyadh set a historic world record for the largest group performance of the Saudi Ardha.925 participants performed the Ardha, the traditional Saudi sword dance, in a national artistic show that embodies an amazing combination of artistry and popularity.
This event was held on February 15, 2026, on the occasion of the founding anniversary of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in the presence of Prince Faisal bin Bandar of Riyadh, Deputy Prince Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman, and more than a hundred other princes.The ceremony was held under the patronage of the Governor of the Riyadh Region, Prince Faisal bin Bandar, and the Deputy Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman, and was organized by the Royal Commission for the City of Riyadh and the Riyadh Region Governorate.
This event confirmed the status of the Saudi Ardha as one of the most important expressions of the Kingdom’s cultural identity. It also reflects ongoing efforts to display national heritage in a highly organized manner commensurate with international standards and recognition, highlighting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s global presence. In 2025, the same achievement was achieved with 633 artists, entering the Guinness Book of World Records.
February 22, 2022, was designated as a national celebration by royal order from King Salman, who sought to shed light on the historical leadership of Imam Muhammad bin Saud, who was credited with establishing the Saudi state in Diriyah in 1139 AH (1727 AD).