Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — The story of Saudi Arabia is not only told in its history books but also echoed in the words of its Kings.
Since the founding of the Kingdom in 1932, its monarchs have used their voices to affirm unity, inspire loyalty, and chart the path of development.
From the founding decree of King Abdulaziz to the speeches of King Salman in the era of Vision 2030, the words of Saudi rulers reflect both the nation’s challenges and its aspirations.
The founder, King Abdulaziz Al Saud, understood that words could carry the weight of legitimacy.
His declarations after the unification emphasized that the new state was built on Islamic principles and the loyalty of its people.
In messages recorded in Um Al-Qura, he described unity as the cornerstone of security and prosperity.
His speeches affirmed that the Kingdom’s identity was tied to both faith and cohesion, and that his leadership was inseparable from the will of the people.
As the first heir to succeed the founder, King Saud expressed pride in continuing his father’s legacy.
His addresses often highlighted the expansion of education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
In speeches marking the Kingdom’s growing international role, he described Saudi Arabia as a country committed to modernization while faithful to its traditions.
His words reflected the optimism of a nation entering a new stage of growth.
King Faisal’s words carried weight beyond Saudi borders. His addresses emphasized Islamic solidarity and Arab unity, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in the Muslim world.
He spoke of the Kingdom’s responsibility to defend its faith and values while embracing economic planning and reform at home.
His words during the oil crisis of 1973, invoking justice and sovereignty, resonated worldwide and underscored his moral authority.
King Khalid’s speeches were characterized by warmth and reassurance. At a time of prosperity fueled by oil, he emphasized compassion, welfare, and stability.
His words to the people reflected his role as a guardian of continuity, reassuring citizens that the Kingdom’s prosperity would be shared broadly and that loyalty to faith and leadership would remain its compass.
When King Fahd adopted the title “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques” in 1986, his words gave new resonance to the monarchy’s link with Islam’s holiest sites.
His speeches often focused on development, modernization, and Saudi Arabia’s role in ensuring regional stability.
During the Gulf War, his addresses emphasized the Kingdom’s responsibility to defend its sovereignty and protect the wider region, anchoring the legitimacy of his leadership in decisive action.
King Abdullah spoke often of reform, justice, and opportunity. In his speeches, he emphasized education as the key to national progress, launching scholarship programs and new universities.
His words also encouraged women’s participation in society, promising a gradual but steady path toward empowerment.
He frequently addressed citizens with phrases that reflected his closeness to them, assuring that the people’s welfare was his highest priority.
In the present era, King Salman’s addresses underscore reform, stability, and ambition.
His speeches during budget announcements and on National Days highlight the Kingdom’s determination to pursue comprehensive development while upholding Islamic and national values.
With the launch of Vision 2030 under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, his words have focused on transformation, diversification, and empowerment, linking the nation’s heritage with its aspirations for a global future.
Across nine decades, the words of Saudi kings form a narrative of nationhood. They speak of faith, unity, development, and pride ideals that guided the country from fragile beginnings to its present stature as a global economic power.
On the 95th National Day, Saudis recall the voices of their leaders, echoing across generations with messages of loyalty and hope.
