National Day 2024: Strict Guidelines on the Use of the National Flag

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Saudi Arabia's National Day 2024 Strict Guidelines on the Use of the National Flag

Strict Guidelines on the Use of the National Flag. As Saudi Arabia prepares to celebrate its National Day on Monday, September 23, the Ministry of Interior has issued a detailed set of guidelines to ensure proper respect for the Kingdom’s national flag during the celebrations. These rules are designed to maintain the sanctity of the flag, a symbol of Saudi unity and pride, and prevent any misuse.

Strict Guidelines on the Use of the National Flag – Key Guidelines for Flag Usage During National Day

The Ministry’s statement, released on Friday, emphasizes that any disrespect towards the national flag will not be tolerated. Below is a summary of the critical prohibitions and instructions regarding the display and use of the flag during National Day celebrations:

Strict Guidelines on the Use of the National Flag – Table of National Flag Guidelines

Prohibition/Requirement	Details
Condition of the Flag	Flags that are faded, old, or in poor condition must be destroyed.
Commercial Use	The flag cannot be used as a trademark or for commercial advertising.
Placement and Handling	The flag must never be placed in areas where it could be damaged or become dirty.
Flag Movement	The flag must remain unencumbered on its mast and move freely.
Use on Animals or as Decoration	It is forbidden to place the flag on animals or use it as a decorative item in any disrespectful manner.
Alterations	No phrases, slogans, or drawings can be added to the flag, and its ends must not be pinned or altered.
Disrespectful Use	The flag must not be printed on disposable materials, and it must never be flown upside down.
Contact with Ground or Water	It is strictly prohibited to lower the flag to the point where it touches the ground, water, or any surface.
Emblems on the Flag	No emblem is allowed on the flag except for the flag of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
Proper Disposal	Flags unfit for display must be destroyed to avoid reuse in poor condition.

Respecting the National Symbol

The Ministry of Interior outlined specific conditions to ensure that the flag remains a symbol of pride and unity for the Kingdom. For example:

Flags that are faded or damaged should be removed from use and destroyed by the responsible authority.
The flag must not be affixed in a way that restricts its movement, and it should always be displayed freely on its mast.
Under no circumstances should the flag be used for purposes that degrade its significance, such as tying or carrying objects.

The Ministry also stated that the flag must not be printed on disposable materials, such as napkins or packaging, which could degrade its importance. Additionally, the flag must never be flown upside down as a sign of utmost respect.

Strict Guidelines on the Use of the National Flag – Prohibited Alterations and Commercial Use

The Ministry highlighted several ways in which the flag must not be altered. These include:

No phrases, slogans, or drawings may be added to the flag.
The ends of the flag must not be pinned or altered in any way.

It is also forbidden to use the flag for commercial advertising or as a trademark. Any violation of these rules could result in legal repercussions, as the Ministry seeks to uphold the dignity of this national symbol.

Special Exceptions for the Flag of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques

One exception is the flag of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, which features the Kingdom’s emblem—two crossed swords topped by a palm tree—in the lower corner near the flagpole. No other flag is permitted to bear this emblem.

Significance of Saudi Arabia’s National Day

Saudi Arabia’s National Day commemorates the historic moment when King Abdulaziz Al Saud announced the unification of the Kingdom on September 23, 1932. This momentous occasion marked the transition from the Kingdom of Hejaz, Najd, and its annexes to the unified Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, symbolizing national unity and strength.

Conclusion

As the Kingdom celebrates its 94th National Day, it is essential for citizens and businesses to follow these guidelines meticulously. The national flag represents Saudi Arabia’s identity, history, and unity, and any misuse of this symbol, especially during such a significant celebration, will not be tolerated.

For those participating in the festivities, whether through public displays or private events, it’s crucial to uphold the flag’s dignity by adhering to these important rules and guidelines.