T R AV E L T R E N D S
HISTORIC KSA
THE STORY BEHIND THE SAUDI ARABIAN
NATIONAL ANTHEM Where did it come from? By Mohammed Mirza
The roots of the Saudi national anthem can be traced back to the year 1947, when King Abdulaziz was on a visit to Egypt. Next, the Egyptian composer Abdul Rahman Al Khateeb was approached to create a national anthem for Saudi Arabia and the tune of Aash Al Malek (Long Live the King) was born.
Fahd, poet Ibrahim Al Khafaji wrote the lyrics in 1984, which is the one that is still in use today. In current vernacular trend, the Saudi national anthem is referred to as Saar’ey, based on its incipit which literally means ‘hasten’.
It was officially adopted as the national anthem in 1950 but carried no lyrics at that time.
Hasten, To glory and supremacy. Glorify the Creator of the heavens
The music in the anthem carried a typical Arabian fanfare style, similar to the national anthems of other Arab states. The brass instrument version that we hear today is a later change made by Saudi musician Seraj Omar. Lyrics were added in 1958 that were written by Mohammed Talat, but these were rarely heard. Then at the order of King
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ENGLISH TRANSLATION
And raise the green flag, Carrying the written light reflecting guidance. Repeat: Allahu Akbar O my country, My country, Live as the glory of Muslims. Long live the King, For the flag And the homeland.