Saudi National Day 2026: Driving and Car-Rental Planning for Jeddah, Riyadh and Al-Khobar
Saudi Arabia’s 96th National Day programme spans several cities around 23 September 2026. If you are using a rental car, pickup timing, early arrival, parking strategy and a realistic time buffer matter more than simply finding the shortest route.
Key official timings this week
Saudi Press Agency reported on 19 September that Jeddah’s air displays ran from 18 to 20 September at 5:00 p.m. In Riyadh, the main shows are scheduled for 22 and 23 September from 4:00 p.m., with public doors opening at 2:00 p.m. in Malham. Al-Khobar waterfront is scheduled to host air shows on 26 and 27 September at 4:30 p.m.
Fireworks on 23 September
SPA says fireworks are scheduled for 9:00 p.m. on 23 September in nine cities: Riyadh, Al-Khobar, Madinah, Jeddah, Hail, Arar, Al-Baha, Tabuk and Buraidah. Expect strong demand for nearby parking and heavier movement before and after major public events.
If you collect a rental car on an event day
- Do not schedule pickup against the event start: allow time to inspect the car, review the agreement, check fuel and set navigation.
- Confirm delivery location: if the car is being delivered to a hotel or another address, re-check the service area and timing with the provider.
- Document vehicle condition: record exterior, interior and fuel condition in the way the rental company allows.
- Keep support details handy: know how to contact the rental company if heavy traffic affects your return time.
Driving to the Riyadh events in Malham
The main Riyadh programme starts at 4:00 p.m. on 22 and 23 September and doors open at 2:00 p.m., according to SPA. Plan to arrive early and follow official traffic and parking directions on the day. A navigation app’s normal-day travel estimate may not reflect event conditions.
Jeddah and Al-Khobar: waterfront events need a different plan
Jeddah’s celebrations include air and naval activity along the Red Sea waterfront, while Al-Khobar’s waterfront hosts air shows on 26 and 27 September. In busy waterfront districts, choosing a legal parking location and walking a short distance can be more practical than driving toward the densest crowd area.
Choosing a car for a family holiday itinerary
For families with children or luggage, confirm seat count and boot space before booking. If you are mostly staying within one city, a smaller vehicle may be easier to park. You can compare currently available rental cars in Riyadh and review live prices, specifications and terms before sending a booking request.
Do not assume a road closure before an official notice
Large events can involve local traffic management, but diversions and parking arrangements can change. Check official traffic and event updates on the day rather than relying on an old social post or an outdated map.
Current sources and references
Saudi Press Agency: nationwide air, sea and land shows and fireworks, 19 September 2026
During National Day week, the best driving plan is early arrival, time buffers, official parking and clear pickup/return arrangements. The rental car should add flexibility to the celebration, not create last-minute pressure.