By: Mohammed Saifuddin, YaHind.Com
Riyadh: The Indian community in Riyadh celebrated the 299th Saudi Founding Day with fervor and cultural pride, marking the historic establishment of the Saudi state in 1727. The event reflected the strong and enduring bonds between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
On the occasion, the KSA chapter of the International Journalists Fraternity Forum (IJFF) released its Annual Diary–2026 in a formal ceremony attended by prominent members of the Indian diaspora.
A cake-cutting ceremony was organized to commemorate Saudi Founding Day, led by noted businessman and Director of Alshifa Medical Services Group, Dr. Idris Salim Khan Gaur.
The IJFF 2026 Diary was officially released by chief guest Badruddin Khan Burney, senior leader of the Samajwadi Party, alongwith IJFF KSA Chapter President Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ali, social activist Dr. Idris Saleem Gaur, All India Steering Committee Coordinator Eng. Zaigham Khan, Vice President Mohammed Saifuddin, Treasurer Ismail Hasan Amer, and other distinguished guests.
Addressing the gathering, Badruddin Khan Burney underscored the crucial role of journalism in strengthening society and democratic values. He lauded the Indian expatriate community for its invaluable contributions to the development of both India and Saudi Arabia. Highlighting the strong bilateral relations between the two nations, he remarked that every Indian living in Saudi Arabia serves as an ambassador of India. He also expressed gratitude to the Saudi leadership for providing vast opportunities to expatriates, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s growth.
Speakers at the event conveyed their appreciation to Saudi Arabia for offering a secure and progressive environment for expatriates.
Dr. Idris Salim Khan Gaur reaffirmed his commitment to celebrating the national occasions of both nations, describing the relationship between India and Saudi Arabia as one built on mutual respect and shared progress. He noted that while India remains their “Janma Bhoomi” (birthplace), Saudi Arabia has become their “Karma Bhoomi” (workplace), a land of opportunity and dignity.
Saudi businessman Ali Salem praised the Indian community for its discipline, professionalism, and dedication, acknowledging its vital role in the Kingdom’s ongoing development and success story.
In his welcome address, IJFF KSA Chapter President Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ali highlighted the forum’s achievements over the past years, stating that the chapter has consistently organized educational, literary, and informative programs. He assured that IJFF would continue its efforts to promote responsible journalism and community engagement.
Among those who addressed the gathering were Eng. Zaigham Khan, poet Iftegar Raghib, Hassan Arifi, President of the Indian Education Forum Dr. Dilshad Ahmed, Rafeeq Ahmed, Steering Committee members Eng. Mohammed Mubeen and Ghulam Khan, and TBN News Chairman M.A. Mateen.
Traditional shawls and floral bouquets were presented to the guests. Executive Member IJFF Farooq Raza specialy arranged floral garlands for guests and dignitaries.
The program was conducted by Nayeem Abdul Qayyum and IJFF KSA Vice President Mohammed Saifuddin, while Treasurer Ismail Hasan Amer proposed the vote of thanks. The event commenced with the recitation of verses from the Holy Qur’an by Mohammed Numair Uddin.
The celebration concluded with suhoor on a note of unity, gratitude, and renewed commitment to strengthening Indo-Saudi friendship and journalistic excellence.
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