“The significance of the year 1727 in the story of Saudi Arabia has become ever more apparent in the light of extensive research carried out by historians and archaeologists.” 

King Salman issued a royal order announcing that Feb. 22 will be known as Founding Day. The new annual national holiday, which will be celebrated for the first time next month, has been created to recognize the foundation of the first Saudi state in 1727 by Imam Mohammed ibn Saud. [Arab News]