Here are 5 facts to know and familiarize yourself with the national anthem of Saudi Arabia
18 October 2018
| Last updated on 27 December 2018
Every country has its own national anthem – however long or short, or however, it sounds like – it is a part of their identity.
It’s no doubt that a country’s nationalism and identity is shaped by its national anthem – it’s the first thing that is heard during big events.
Also, the national anthem acts as an embodiment of the country’s past, present and future. Often reflecting ideologies, traditions and customs.
A national anthem of a country is also a map towards where the country has been and where it is heading to – reminding the public of its rich past while inspiring the youth of the nation.
But before we continue, here’s what the Saudi national anthem sounds like if you’ve never heard it.
And now 5 facts about Saudi Arabia’s national anthem explains everything you need to know.
1. The melody was gifted by King Farouk of Egypt
This exact melody was gifted to King Abdulaziz by King Farouk during his visit to Egypt in 1947.
When the King of Saudi Arabia visited Egypt, the composer of this melody played it for him at the official welcoming ceremony by using a trumpet.
2. The national anthem did not have lyrics in 1950
When King Abdulaziz adopted the melody in the 1950s, the anthem did not have lyrics – it acted as an official royal salute and was played at official ceremonies. And not really used as a national anthem.
3. The national anthem follows a poem
When the lyrics were introduced into Saudi Arabia’s national anthem, it incorporated a poem composed by a famous Saudi poet.
It took Ibrahim Khafaji six months to complete the poem and then it was given to Siraj Oman, a Saudi composer, to blend the lyrics and melody together.
Ibrahim Khafaji, the composer behind Saudi’s national anthem and Arab poet, passed away in November 2017.
4. The national anthem was first played on TV and radio
After the national anthem was completed by the poet and composer, the final piece was played to the public via national TV and radio on Eid Al Fitr in 1984.
5. The national anthem is locally known as “Sari’i”
Saudi nationals and residents in the country who have lived there long enough, know to refer to the national anthem as Sari’i in Kingdom.
The Arabic word translates to Hasten, which is the first word of the Saudi Arabian national anthem.
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- national
- anthem
- saudi arabia
