Al-Mraeed, a former senior officer, positions the Saudi state not merely as a political construct but as a project of resilience, forged in the crucible of battles, strategic calculations, and a unifying national identity. He asserts that security and stability were never incidental by-products but deliberate pillars of state-building, enabling the Saudi state to survive internal divisions, deter external threats, and withstand the turbulence of a volatile region.

The book traces the geopolitical conditions that preceded the birth of the First Saudi State, then unfolds an analytical journey through the three historic phases of Saudi nationhood. Each stage, Al-Mraeed argues, embodies a different facet of Saudi resilience and vision—beginning with the establishment of unity, followed by a period of endurance, and culminating in unification and modernization.

Three Phases of Statehood

The First Saudi State (1727–1818) is depicted as a pioneering moment when unity and security were anchored in the fabric of national identity. This foundation gave birth to a political order that could withstand both tribal fragmentation and external opposition.

The Second Saudi State (1824–1891), marked by turbulence and conflict, is characterized in the book as an era of endurance. Despite rifts within and relentless challenges from beyond, the state persevered—demonstrating the tenacity that would later define Saudi resilience.

The Third Saudi State, inaugurated in 1902 with the recapture of Riyadh, is described as the unification era that continues into the present day. Al-Mraeed dedicates an entire chapter to this decisive operation, describing it as a lightning maneuver that reset the trajectory of Saudi history. This phase, he argues, was not only about consolidating territorial control but also about building a modern kingdom rooted in pride, stability, and prosperity under visionary leadership.

Al-Mraeed enriches his account by spotlighting lesser-known aspects of Saudi military heritage. He highlights the contribution of women, citing figures such as Ghaliya Al-Buqmiya, who played critical roles in defense and strategy. He also examines the centrality of horses and camels in traditional warfare, while noting the morale-boosting power of poetry and military displays in shaping Saudi spirit across generations.

A Legacy of Strategy and Resilience

The volume is distinguished by its extensive use of maps, archival records, and rare photographs, making it both an academic resource and a historical narrative. It draws deliberate comparisons between Saudi strategic thought and global military doctrines, underscoring the Kingdom’s philosophy of crisis management and deterrence. Al-Mraeed condenses this approach in a succinct maxim: “Readiness for war creates peace.”

Beyond recounting conflicts, the book dissects the political decisions, security strategies, and tactical innovations that laid the foundation of the Saudi state. In doing so, it moves beyond the conventional telling of wars to reveal how crises were consistently transformed into opportunities for unity and renewal.

Published to coincide with the Kingdom’s 95th National Day, Epics of the Saudi State seeks to remind readers that Saudi Arabia’s endurance was never guaranteed but earned through determination, leadership, and the collective will of its people.

The five chapters of the book—covering the foundation, endurance, ascent, unification, and stability—recount how a unity project grew into a national identity that transcended tribalism and sectarianism, offering instead a model of cohesion and sustainable statehood.

By situating the Saudi story within its broader historical arc, Al-Mraeed emphasizes the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. The Saudi people’s will, determination, and loyalty, he suggests, are not only the legacy of their forefathers but also the enduring keys to maintaining one of the most stable nations in the region.

This is no figure of speech. The Saudi leadership quite literally does not sleep during Hajj.

Year after year, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirms its unparalleled ability to uphold the sacred trust bestowed upon it by God — the responsibility of organizing the Hajj and serving the guests of the Almighty. In doing so, it has become a global benchmark for managing the largest annual human gathering on earth, marked by precision, professionalism, and utmost safety.

At the heart of this unparalleled effort lies the unwavering commitment of the Saudi leadership — led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, may God preserve them. The title “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques” is not a mere ceremonial designation. It reflects the essence of Saudi leadership, which dedicates all its resources to serving pilgrims, with the full support and pride of the Saudi people.

Each year, the world watches a remarkable scene unfold as the Kingdom welcomes millions of pilgrims and oversees the Hajj rituals with a unique model of care, logistics, and humaneness — a system that reflects the Saudi leadership’s devotion to the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques and to the dignity of the pilgrims.

It is no surprise that the Kingdom is globally hailed as a model in managing this colossal annual event. For Saudi Arabia, Hajj is not only an honor but a historic and religious duty, passed down through generations of leadership and upheld with national vigor and responsibility.

The Two Holy Mosques lie at the very core of Saudi Arabia’s identity — a cornerstone of its spiritual and civilizational mission since the unification of the Kingdom by its founding father, King Abdulaziz, may God have mercy on him.

This devotion manifests in every detail of Hajj management. Ministries, security forces, medical units, and service sectors operate in seamless coordination to provide a deeply spiritual, safe, and smooth experience for pilgrims from all corners of the world.

What stands out year after year is the meticulous and direct supervision of the Saudi leadership. King Salman personally oversees preparations, while Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman follows the developments minute by minute, issuing instructions to ensure the utmost comfort and security of the pilgrims — tirelessly and without delay.

This is no figure of speech. The Saudi leadership quite literally does not sleep during Hajj. Real-time decisions, instant adjustments, and swift implementations are hallmarks of a flexible and efficient system — all aimed at ensuring that the guests of God fulfill their rites in peace and safety.

Security remains the foundational pillar of Hajj operations. The Kingdom spares no effort in protecting pilgrims from all potential risks — organizational, health-related, or security threats. Thousands of security personnel are strategically deployed across the holy sites, backed by advanced monitoring technologies, real-time tracking systems, and crowd management strategies designed to swiftly respond to any emergency.

Yet beyond safety, the Kingdom offers pilgrims peace of mind — a palpable sense of care and protection that enhances the spiritual serenity of the Hajj experience.

The massive expansion projects in the holy sites are a clear testament to this dedication. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has implemented the largest expansion in the history of the Grand Mosque, alongside the development of Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat. Modern transport systems, bus lanes, and the Mashair Train have all contributed to reducing congestion and facilitating the pilgrim flow.

Saudi Arabia has also established a robust medical infrastructure, with hundreds of clinics, field hospitals, air ambulances, cooling stations, air-conditioned tents, and water and food distribution points — all functioning 24/7 as part of a fully integrated logistical network.

Nor has the Kingdom been left behind in the digital age. On the contrary, technology has been seamlessly woven into the Hajj operation. Smart applications now guide pilgrims, provide real-time assistance, issue fatwas, and help locate services. Artificial intelligence and multilingual service robots offer on-the-ground support, making the pilgrim experience smoother and more accessible.

This digital transformation is not about technological showmanship, but rather about achieving the ultimate goal — easing the physical and emotional burden on every pilgrim.

In alignment with Vision 2030, the Kingdom has made pilgrim service a national priority. The “Guests of God Service Program” is a flagship initiative aimed at upgrading every aspect of the Hajj and Umrah journey — from arrival to departure — by expanding capacity, enhancing quality, and enriching the spiritual experience.

This reflects not a seasonal commitment, but a long-term, strategic pledge to make the pilgrimage not only spiritually fulfilling but also welcoming, dignified, and memorable.

What distinguishes the Saudi model is its dedication to constant improvement. After each Hajj season, thorough reviews are conducted, feedback is analyzed, committees convene, and plans are updated to address challenges and refine processes. Lessons learned are actively incorporated into future operations.

This proactive approach sends a clear message: the safety and service of pilgrims is a red line for the Kingdom — a responsibility never taken lightly, and never compromised.

Hajj in Saudi Arabia is not merely an event. It is a grand narrative of dedication and accountability, orchestrated by leaders who remain alert, teams who think ahead, and hands that serve with sincerity.

Yes, no human operation is perfect. Minor lapses are natural in an event of such scale. Yet unfortunately, some exploit these rare instances to spread negativity or distort reality. Saudi Arabia, with its transparent governance and quiet confidence, does not answer with rhetoric — it responds with action, consistent upgrades, and the undeniable testimony of millions of satisfied pilgrims.

Credible voices across the Arab, Islamic, and global media landscape have praised Saudi Arabia’s Hajj management as a model of service, discipline, and sincerity — a standard to aspire to.

Year after year, the Kingdom continues to prove that it is most worthy of this sacred trust — not just capable, but exemplary. In doing so, it transforms one of the world’s greatest logistical challenges into a shining symbol of compassion, order, and excellence.

We pray to Almighty God to bless our wise leadership and grant continued success to all those serving this Hajj season. May the Kingdom and its people remain forever safe and prosperous.

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not reflect Milli Chronicle’s point-of-view.