Diriyah played a key role in Saudi state-building to bring it in its modern form

 

Diriyah acted as a hub for economic and social activities during first Saudi state

The history of state-building in Saudi Arabia traces its roots back to central Arabia, where the Banu Hanifa tribe, led by Ubayd bin Tha’labah, migrated from Hijaz and settled along Wadi Hanifa around 430 AD. They established Hajr Al-Yamamah, which later became the region's most significant city, led by Thumamah bin Uthal Al-Hanafi.

Over the centuries, central Arabia saw periods of neglect and division, until the establishment of Diriyah by Prince Mani’ bin Rabiah Al-Muraidi in 850 AH / 1446 AD. This marked a pivotal moment in the region's political landscape.

In 1139 AH / 1727 AD, Imam Mohammed bin Saud founded the First Saudi State, with Diriyah as its capital. This state flourished until its fall in 1233 AH / 1818 AD.

 

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After the collapse of the First Saudi State, Imam Turki bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud founded the Second Saudi State in 1240 AH / 1824 AD, making Riyadh its capital. The Second Saudi State lasted until 1309 AH / 1891 AD.

A period of political instability followed, but on 5 Shawwal 1319 AH / Jan. 15, 1902, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al-Faisal Al Saud captured Riyadh, beginning the unification of the Kingdom.

On 17 Jumada Al-Awwal 1351 AH / Sept. 23, 1932, King Abdulaziz formally announced the unification of Saudi Arabia, completing a three-decade-long process of consolidation.

Diriyah, located at a strategic crossroads linking northern and southern Arabia, became a thriving cultural and economic center. During the First Saudi State, it served as the capital of a vast territory and was a hub for economic, social, and cultural activities.

Historic landmarks in Diriyah, such as Ghasiba district, Samhan, the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district (one of the largest mudbrick neighborhoods in the world), Al-Bujairi district, and Wadi Hanifa, reflect the area's historical significance.

 

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The Kingdom has continued to evolve under successive monarchs, maintaining stability and fostering development. Today, under King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia is undergoing a period of transformation under the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030.

Source: Saudi Gazette