Dubai: Rich in tradition, heritage and folklore, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia pavilion celebrated its national day with spectacular performances and patriotic fervor at Expo 2020 Dubai here today.

A great musical show with live orchestra, 90 musicians and an opera singer was the highlight of the day. Held at Al Wasl Plaza, the “Saudi Cultural Show” was a story rich in images with cutting-edge 3D projections displayed on the world’s largest LED screen. A royal Ardah (sword dance) was also performed, showcasing the traditional culture of the country. The show was topped off with dazzling light shows and fireworks that lit up the skies above the Expo 2020 site in Dubai.

Hussain Hanbazazah, Commissioner General of the Saudi Arabia Pavilion, said: “The Saudi National Day has enabled us to present and celebrate with the world the best of the Kingdom and its people – our vision, our culture, our heritage and our history. It was also an honor to welcome Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom, to Expo 2020 Dubai to oversee an exhilarating program that took visitors on an unforgettable journey from the past, from present and our bright future of the Kingdom.

Saudi dignitaries, business leaders, artists and youth attended the celebrations. Abdulmalik Alaskar, 21, a graduate in Japanese language and translation from King Saud University in Riyadh, said Gulf News: “I am proud of my nation and the power it wields on the global platform. As a millennial, I was taught to dream and have ambitions and I am very grateful for that. I hope to see Saudi Arabia launch new developments that will put it on top of the world. “

Saudi Arabia’s National Day saw 18 events at ten different locations at the exhibition site, including Al Wasl Plaza, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion, Al Forsan Park, Al Ghaf Avenue, the Business Connect Center, Jubilee Park, Sun Stage, Sea Stage, Earth Stage and the main entrance to the Mobility District.

Business leaders attended the “Saudi Business Briefing”, where representatives of the Saudi Ministry of Investment shared updates on investment opportunities and programs in the Kingdom, including major projects such as the futuristic city of Neom, the Red Sea Development Company, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority. , and Roshn, Saudi Arabia’s largest real estate developer.

There were cultural performances by the “Flower Men of Asir” and a musical performance by a military band who performed traditional folk dances. The Saudi Arabia Pavilion also screened the film “Kingdom of Opportunities,” which explored Saudi Arabia’s role in supporting and empowering aspiring Saudi entrepreneurs as they grow their businesses.

Saudi musical maestro Mohamed Abdo performed as part of “Amjad, The Saudi Music Night” at Jubilee Park, while Saudi pop sensation Ayed also joined in the celebrations as music lovers tapped their feet to attend. special performances by Saudi DJ under the stars, by the sea, The floors of the Sun and the Earth.

Al Forsan Park also saw the “Saudi Experience Festival” with shows and activities for people of all ages. A “Saudi Fashion Show” led the way with contemporary pieces and collections designed by the next generation of Saudi talent. The exhibition featured the collections of Saudi designers “Reem Al Kanhal”, “KafbyKaf”, “R9designs” and “1886”.

Visitors also had the chance to participate in Sadu weaving, one of the oldest traditional forms of weaving in Saudi Arabia, while other visitors were able to witness the “Saudi Cultural Parade”, led by 80 members of the military band with trumpets and drums. A unique fashion show showcased traditional and contemporary trends from the Kingdom, while a horse parade celebrated the historical importance of equines to Saudi Arabia’s rich culture. The Saudi Green Falcons also staged a breathtaking air show, filling the skies above Expo 2020 Dubai.