Saudi Ambassador to the Maldives Yahya Hassan Al‑Qahtani (C) with foreign diplomats, including ambassadors and High Commissioners from other nations present in the Maldives, February 22, 2026. (Sun Photo/Shathiu Abdullah)
The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Maldives hosted a ceremony in Male' on Sunday to mark Saudi Arabia’s Founding Day.
The event was held at the Saudi Embassy and attended by Chief Justice Abdul Ghani Mohamed, several Cabinet ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, and senior officials from government institutions.
Addressing the gathering, Saudi Ambassador to the Maldives Yahya Hassan Al‑Qahtani highlighted the historic significance of Founding Day, which commemorates the establishment of the first Saudi state by Imam Mohammed bin Saud in 1727. He noted that the foundations laid nearly three centuries ago, unity, security, justice and development, continue to guide the Kingdom today.
The Ambassador said Saudi Arabia’s identity is deeply rooted in its Arab and Islamic heritage, and as the home of the Two Holy Mosques, the Kingdom carries a special responsibility to serve the Islamic world and promote peace, tolerance and coexistence.
He also underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing global role, noting that the Kingdom is now one of the world’s leading economies and an active member of the G20, contributing significantly to global energy security and sustainable development.
Ambassador Al‑Qahtani highlighted the transformative agenda of Saudi Vision 2030, led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He said the vision focuses on economic diversification, innovation, empowering citizens, and strengthening international partnerships.
The Ambassador also emphasised the strong and expanding relationship between Saudi Arabia and the Maldives, expressing the Kingdom’s commitment to deepening cooperation across all sectors.
Founding Day is celebrated annually to honour the origins of the Saudi state and the leadership that shaped its modern development.