Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Every sovereign state carries a national anthem, music and words that embody its independence, pride, and identity.
In Saudi Arabia, the journey to its current anthem reflects decades of history, from the first composition in the mid-20th century to the adoption of lyrics that continue to echo across generations.
In 1946 (1365 AH), musician Abdulrahman Al-Khatib entrusted with composing the Kingdom’s first royal anthem.
This instrumental piece, performed by military bands, became the music that welcomed dignitaries and accompanied state occasions.
It was a march without lyrics, but its solemn tones symbolized sovereignty and unity.
In 1958 (1377 AH), poet Mohammed Talat composed a lyrical piece to welcome King Saud during his historic visit to Taif.
The lines expressed loyalty and devotion to the King, carrying emotional weight even though they were not officially adopted as part of the anthem.
These verses resonated with citizens, reflecting a growing desire to pair music with words that embodied national belonging.
During the reign of King Faisal, the anthem continued to be played in its original instrumental form, without lyrics.
While the melody remained familiar at state functions, discussions about creating a full national song — with music and lyrics — persisted in the background.
Under King Khalid, the idea of commissioning a national anthem with lyrics was formally proposed.
Plans were drawn up, but his passing in 1982 halted the project before it could be realized.
The project was revived again during the reign of King Fahd.
On the recommendation of Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal, poet Ibrahim Khafaji was tasked with writing the lyrics.
His verses were carefully crafted to reflect permanence, faith, and loyalty, while observing the moral and religious sensitivities of the Kingdom.
The words captured the essence of Saudi identity, a song for every time and place.
Composer Siraj Omar then arranged Khafaji’s lyrics to fit the original melody by Abdulrahman Al-Khatib, creating the anthem in its full form.
On July 1, 1984, King Fahd issued a royal order officially adopting the anthem as the Kingdom’s national song. From that day, it became part of daily life: performed in schools, played at sporting events, and heard at every official gathering.
Four decades later, the anthem remains a fixture of Saudi life. Its music links today’s generation with the founders, while its lyrics remind citizens of their duty to faith, leadership, and homeland.
As Saudi Arabia celebrates its 95th National Day, the anthem stands as a timeless voice of unity, a song that carries the Kingdom’s pride into the future.
