Saudi youth carrying their country's national flag during National Day celebrations in Riyadh last year. Saudi Gazette The youth of the Kingdom is all set to celebrate the historic occasion. After all, it's their country's 81st National Day and they are gearing up in full swing for grand celebrations to mark this significant day, which honors the unification of the Kingdom by King Abdul Aziz Al-Saud in 1932. For Saudis, it's a day of pride and recognition that arouses their patriotic feelings. “Last year, me and my friends celebrated the National Day at the Corniche, and this year we plan to do the same,” said Abdul Rahman, a 22-year-old Saudi graduate. “We'll paint our cars green, wear green outfits, purchase flags and head to the Corniche to dance and sing patriotic songs,” he said. Some feel it's a proud moment and take this opportunity to applaud King Abdullah's progressive leadership and their country's remarkable achievements. “I'm holding a small event for my colleagues and friends on this occasion and the theme will be patriotism, where I will educate them on the significance of this day and how King Abdul Aziz worked hard for this nation,” said 23-year-old Shahla Al-Hind. She added that this occasion should be a moment of realization for young Saudis to stand up for their country and put their best efforts and hard work in building their nation because the future of the Kingdom lies in their hands. National Day celebrations also boost sales of shops which sell Saudi flags and other accessories such as green caps and green scarves. “Last year, my shop witnessed record sales and I ran out of stock after all my 500 flags in stock were sold out!,” said an ecstatic businessman who sells national flags and other accessories of football clubs in Jeddah. He added that most of his customers were teenagers who wanted to celebrate this occasion and this year he has ordered extra stock and a host of attractive green accessories in preparation of National Day celebrations. Khaled, a young Saudi businessman residing in Riyadh, said that he researched details of this honorable occasion on the Internet and was amazed to discover the rich history of his country that he was unaware of for so many years. “I'm very excited to attend the cultural programs that the government is holding to celebrate National Day in Riyadh this year,” he said, adding that he plans to attend the events with his family and friends. __
