National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia

The national anthem of Saudi Arabia is called: « Aash Al Maleek ».

Continent: Asia

Bordering Countries:
🇧🇭 Bahrain
🇮🇶 Iraq
🇯🇴 Jordan
🇰🇼 Kuwait
🇴🇲 Oman
🇶🇦 Qatar
🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
🇾🇪 Yemen

History of « Aash Al Maleek »

« Aash Al Maleek » (Long Live the King) is the national anthem of Saudi Arabia. The anthem reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, its sovereignty, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1947: The music for « Aash Al Maleek » was composed by Abdul-Rahman Al-Khateeb, a prominent Saudi musician, at the request of King Abdulaziz.
  • 1950: The anthem was first performed in 1950 without lyrics. It was played during official events and state occasions.
  • 1984: The lyrics were written by Ibrahim Khafaji, a renowned Saudi poet, and were officially adopted in 1984, giving the anthem its current form.

Anecdotes

  • Royal Request: The original music was composed at the request of King Abdulaziz, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. The anthem was intended to symbolize the unity and strength of the newly established kingdom.
  • Lyrics Addition: For many years, the anthem was played without lyrics. It wasn’t until 1984 that Ibrahim Khafaji wrote the lyrics, which were then officially adopted, adding a vocal dimension to the anthem.
  • Cultural Significance: « Aash Al Maleek » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Saudi people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Saudis.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Arabic

سارعي للمجد والعلياء
مجدي لخالق السماء
وارفعي الخفاق أخضر
يحمل النور المسطر
رددي الله أكبر
يا موطني
موطني عشت فخر المسلمين
عاش الملك للعلم والوطن

In English (translation)

Hasten to glory and supremacy,
Glorify the Creator of the heavens,
And raise the green flag,
Carrying the written light,
Repeat: Allahu Akbar!
O my country,
My country, live as the pride of Muslims,
Long live the King for the flag and the homeland.

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