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

Crowds celebrate Saudi National Day in Riyadh with flags, traditional performances and a military parade amid heightened regional tensions.

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.