Two national holidays bring the whole country out to celebrate: Saudi National Day on 23 September, which marks the unification of the Kingdom, and Founding Day on 22 February, which remembers the founding of the first Saudi state in Diriyah. Streets turn green, families go out every evening, and many people take a short trip. Cars are in high demand, so plan early.
Book early for the holidays
- Book two to three weeks ahead, especially when the holiday joins a weekend.
- Families should reserve the larger cars first: the Kia Carnival and Geely Okavango go quickly.
- For a long weekend, compare daily and weekly prices.
Trip ideas from each Sajil city
From Riyadh
- Diriyah, the birthplace of the first Saudi state and the natural place to be on Founding Day, with At-Turaif and Al Bujairi.
- Celebrations in the city: fireworks, air shows and lit-up boulevards. See car rental for events in Riyadh.
- A desert evening at the Red Sands or Al Thumamah. See weekend trips near Riyadh.
From Taif
- Al-Hada and Al-Shafa for cool evenings in September.
- A day in Jeddah by the sea. See Taif to Jeddah by car.
From Al-Ahsa
- Al-Qarah mountain and the old souqs, and Al Uqair beach on the Gulf.
- Dammam and Al Khobar corniches, about 150 km away. See Riyadh to Dammam and Al Khobar.
From Dawadmi
- Shaqra and Ushaiger, two of the best preserved Najdi towns. See car rental in Dawadmi.
Driving during the celebrations
- Main boulevards fill with slow traffic and families on foot in the evenings; be patient and watch for children.
- Decorating a rental car with stickers or paint is not allowed; small flags held by passengers are a better idea.
- Do not use the horn non-stop or drive dangerously; traffic police are out in force.
Frequently asked questions
Do prices go up on national holidays?
Demand is high, so the cheapest cars are booked first. Booking early gives you the widest choice at the lowest prices.
Is 22 February always a holiday?
Founding Day has been an official holiday on 22 February since 2022.
Can I return the car in another city after the holiday?
Yes, to any city with a Sajil branch. Choose a different return branch when you book.
Ready for the road?
Daily, weekly and monthly car rental from our branches across the Kingdom.
