His Majesty the Beloved King Departs, in God’s Care, Toward Al‑Kharj
At 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, His Majesty the Exalted King proceeded to Qasr Al‑Hukm, where he received tribal leaders, senior statesmen, and notable figures of the country. At 3:30 a.m., His Majesty’s motorcade departed on a visit to the city of Al‑Kharj, arriving at 4:30 a.m.
The Governor of Al‑Kharj and the city’s dignitaries were at the forefront of those welcoming His Majesty. The royal motorcade was greeted with cheers and applause from the crowds lining the road leading to His Majesty’s palace there. May God protect His Majesty in all his travels.
His Majesty the Exalted King Accepts the Invitation of the People of Al‑Dalm
The dignitaries and notables of the town of Al‑Dalm—located 31 kilometers from Al‑Kharj—extended an invitation to His Majesty the King to honor a banquet held in his name. Among those leading the invitation were:
- Sheikh Abdulaziz Al‑Samari
- Sheikh Zaid bin Ghunaym and their companions
At 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, His Majesty the beloved King departed the royal palace in Al‑Kharj and proceeded toward Al‑Dalm. Reception tents had been erected along the entire route. His Majesty paused between one tent and another, greeting the people, inquiring about their conditions, and receiving their salutations.
Along the way, His Majesty passed by the Teachers’ Institute and the Al‑Dalm School, whose staff and students held a tea reception in his honor. The courtyard was filled with students and crowds, and the royal motorcade was met with thunderous applause. Students and scouts chanted in praise of His Majesty King Saud, the patron of education.
Once His Majesty took his seat, speakers delivered welcoming addresses, and the scouts performed before him. His Majesty, accompanied by the princes and invited guests, then proceeded to the refreshment tables, where tea was served. Afterward, His Majesty departed, greeted by waves of applause and cheers from the townspeople.
In his customary generosity, His Majesty ordered a grant of five thousand riyals for the scouts, in recognition of their spirit and efforts.
The Grand Reception in Al‑Dalam
When the royal motorcade reached the site of the main celebration, passing beneath arches of triumph and festive decorations, the crowds lining the road greeted His Majesty, who waved graciously in return. The dignitaries and notables advanced to receive him.
Upon descending from the royal carriage, His Majesty was saluted by an honor guard, and the royal anthem was played.
After taking his seat, delegations of citizens came forward to greet His Majesty, led by the Governor of Al‑Dalm, scholars, and community leaders. Welcoming speeches were delivered, followed by the traditional Najdi ‘ardah, in which His Majesty graciously participated, along with the princes and senior members of his entourage.
At the time of the Maghrib prayer, all present performed the prayer together. His Majesty then led the guests to the banquet tables. After dinner, His Majesty visited several scholars and dignitaries in their homes, where he was served Arabic coffee and inquired about their needs, extending to them his care and generosity.
His Majesty then departed Al‑Dalm, honored with the warmest farewell, as the people expressed their deep love and sincere loyalty.
The beloved King then returned safely to Riyadh, arriving at 3:00 a.m. local time. May God preserve His Majesty and keep him as a source of strength for his people.
Date of the Historic Visit to Al‑Kharj and Al‑Dalam
Tuesday, 27 Rabi‘ Al‑Thani 1380 AH
Corresponding to 18 October 1960