Riyadh: The Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA) celebrates World Radio Day, observed annually on February 13, under this year's theme "Radio and Climate Change." The occasion aims to raise cultural awareness of radio's significant role in daily life and to recognize the vital contributions of all radio station professionals in delivering information to the public, fostering understanding, and encouraging mutual dialogue.
According to Saudi Press Agency, UNESCO designated this day in commemoration of its first radio broadcast in 1946, reinforcing radio's prominence as an essential auditory medium. The occasion highlights radio's vital role in human diversity, its widespread reach as the most accessible media platform, and the importance of high-quality radio content that upholds professional standards. It also emphasizes engaging listeners, encouraging community participation, and ensuring the competitiveness and sustainability of radio stations in attracting and retaining a broad audience.
The Kingdom's radio broadcasting history dates back to 1949 when the late King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman issued a Royal Order establishing Saudi Radio. The inaugural broadcast began in the same year from Jeddah during the Hajj season, initially focusing on official and religious news and literary productions such as poetry and articles, with a daily broadcast duration of no more than three hours.
Under the umbrella of SBA, the Kingdom operates several radio stations, including Jeddah Radio, Riyadh Radio, Saudia Radio (English-language service), the Holy Quran Radio, Nidaa Alislam Radio, Al-Ekhbariya Radio, and Khuzama Radio.
Recognizing the Kingdom's Islamic significance and influential global role, the Saudi International Radios network was established in 1969, broadcasting in more than 10 languages, including French, Turkish, Indonesian, Persian, Hindi, and Urdu.