How the Saudi national anthem evolved from melody to lyrics

The Saudi national anthem reached its current form after a decades-long journey, beginning with the composition of the first royal anthem melody in 1946 (1365 AH), and culminating in the adoption of poet Ibrahim Khafaji’s lyrics set to the original tune in 1984.

In 1958 (1377 AH), Saudi poet Mohammed Talaat wrote a piece intended for the historic visit of King Saud bin Abdulaziz to Taif, according to a knowledge guide issued by the King Abdulaziz Foundation. The lyrics expressed loyalty and patriotism, including: "Long live our beloved King, our souls are his sacrifice, protector of the holy sites. Come, chant ‘Long live the King,’ raise the nation’s flag, chant and repeat the anthem, long live the King."

The royal anthem continued to be performed as an instrumental without lyrics during the reign of King Faisal bin Abdulaziz. During King Khalid bin Abdulaziz’s era, a project was initiated to create national anthem lyrics to accompany the melody, but his passing prevented its completion.

Official adoption of the national anthem

Under King Fahd bin Abdulaziz, the project was revived and poet Ibrahim Khafaji was tasked with writing the lyrics, which were crafted to reflect permanence and national values, while observing religious and ethical considerations. Composer Siraj Omar arranged the lyrics to fit the original melody, and on July 1, 1984, a royal decree officially adopted the Saudi national anthem, which began airing on radio and television.

The anthem opens with the phrase: "Hasten to glory and supremacy," and concludes with "Long live the King for the flag and the homeland," becoming a unifying national symbol for all Saudis.