Flag of the Saudi Arabia
Overview
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Adopted | 1973 |
| Aspect ratio | 2:3 |
| Colors | |
| Elements | Weapon, text |
Description
The flag features a solid green rectangular field with a 2:3 aspect ratio. Centered on this background is white Arabic calligraphy positioned directly above a horizontal white sword. The sword's hilt is directed toward the hoist side, while the blade points toward the fly.
Symbolism
Green is utilized as the national color to signify Islam, reflecting the country's status as the birthplace of the religion. The white script contains the Shahada, which translates to 'There is no god but Allah; Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.' Positioned beneath the text, the unsheathed sword represents the kingdom's commitment to justice and the defense of the faith. These symbols collectively emphasize the union of religious devotion and sovereign authority within the Saudi state.
History
The current design was officially adopted on March 15, 1973, though its origins date back to the banners used by the Al Saud family during the 18th century. King Abdulaziz Al Saud added the sword to the traditional green flag of the Wahhabi movement during the unification of the kingdom in the early 1900s. Legislative changes in 1973 standardized the specific calligraphy style and the orientation of the sword to ensure the text reads correctly from both sides. Earlier versions occasionally featured two crossed swords or a white vertical stripe along the hoist.