On September 30, 2026, the U.S.-Saudi Business Council, in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Washington, D.C., co-hosted a reception celebrating the Kingdom’s 96th National Day in Washington, D.C. The event brought together senior U.S. and Saudi government officials, members of Congress, diplomatic representatives, business executives, and other leaders from the U.S.-Saudi community to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s heritage, culture, and longstanding relationship with the United States.
The formal program featured remarks by Nawaf Alissa, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Saudi Embassy; Guest of Honor The Honorable Donald Blome, Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs at the U.S. Department of State; and Charles Hallab, President and CEO of the U.S.-Saudi Business Council. In his remarks, Mr. Hallab reflected on the significance of the tenth anniversary of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s transformation over the past decade, highlighting the emergence of new industries, opportunities, and partnerships. He also emphasized the personal relationships, friendships, and mutual trust between Americans and Saudis that have sustained the bilateral relationship across generations.
The event was supported by U.S.-Saudi Business Council Chairman’s Circle members DLA Piper and Chevron as sponsors, with remarks delivered by Michael McGuinness of DLA Piper and Lem Smith of Chevron. Their participation reflected the important role of the private sector in strengthening the bilateral relationship and supporting continued U.S.-Saudi commercial cooperation.
The evening featured a Saudi-American musical performance and a traditional Saudi Ardah performance, alongside Saudi cuisine, hospitality, and cultural activities showcasing the Kingdom’s heritage. The reception also provided an opportunity for Council members and guests to connect with senior government, diplomatic, and business representatives and celebrate the close ties between the two countries.
The celebration reflected the shared commitment of the U.S.-Saudi Business Council and the Saudi Embassy to fostering closer ties between the two countries, bringing together partners and friends of the Kingdom to mark Saudi National Day and recognize the enduring U.S.-Saudi partnership.
