Crowds celebrate Saudi National Day with flags, performances and military parade

Crowds gather in Riyadh and Ad Diriyah to mark Saudi National Day, waving green flags, joining street festivities and watching a Saudi military parade.

Traditional performances and decorated cars add to the atmosphere.

For many residents, the annual event is a chance to spend time with friends and family. Some say taking part has become a long-standing tradition.

This year's festivities come amid heightened regional tensions involving Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group. Fireworks and drone shows planned across Saudi Arabia were postponed until further notice.

National Day is held each year on September 23.