RIYADH – The Indian expatriate community in Riyadh marked the 299th Saudi Founding Day with a blend of cultural fervor and professional milestone, celebrating the historic 1727 establishment of the Saudi state while reinforcing the enduring ties between India and the Kingdom.
On this auspicious occasion, the KSA chapter of the International Journalists Fraternity Forum (IJFF) officially released its Annual Diary–2026. The launch took place during a formal ceremony attended by high-profile members of the Indian diaspora and Saudi dignitaries.
A Symbolic Celebration of Unity
The event commenced with a ceremonial cake-cutting to honor the Saudi Founding Day, led by Dr. Idris Salim Khan Gaur, Director of Alshifa Medical Services Group and a prominent businessman. The atmosphere reflected a shared sense of pride in the Kingdom’s history and its future vision.
The Official Diary Launch
The IJFF 2026 Diary was formally unveiled by the Chief Guest, Badruddin Khan Burney, senior leader of the Samajwadi Party. He was joined on stage by a distinguished panel of IJFF leadership and community pillars, including:
- Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ali (President, IJFF KSA Chapter)
- Dr. Idris Saleem Gaur (Social Activist)
- Eng. Zaigham Khan (Coordinator, All India Steering Committee)
- Mohammed Saifuddin (Vice President, IJFF)
- Ismail Hasan Amer (Treasurer, IJFF)
In a stirring address, Badruddin Khan Burney highlighted journalism as a cornerstone of democratic values and societal strength. He lauded the Indian community’s dual role, noting that every expatriate serves as an unofficial ambassador.
“India is our Janma Bhoomi (birthplace), but Saudi Arabia is our Karma Bhoomi (workplace)—a land that has provided us with dignity, opportunity, and a progressive environment to thrive,” remarked Dr. Idris Salim Khan Gaur, reaffirming the community’s commitment to both nations.
Saudi businessman Ali Salem also addressed the gathering, praising the Indian community for the discipline and professionalism that have become vital to the Kingdom’s ongoing success story.
Dr. Mohammed Ashraf Ali welcomed the guests by recounting the forum’s recent achievements. He emphasized that the IJFF remains dedicated to fostering responsible journalism and providing a platform for literary and educational growth within the diaspora.
The guests were honored with traditional shawls and floral bouquets, with special floral arrangements curated by IJFF Executive Member Farooq Raza.
The proceedings were expertly conducted by Nayeem Abdul Qayyum and Mohammed Saifuddin, beginning with a Quranic recitation by Mohammed Numair Uddin. Following a vote of thanks by Ismail Hasan Amer, the evening concluded with a traditional suhoor, leaving attendees with a renewed commitment to Indo-Saudi friendship and journalistic integrity.
