The appointment in 1962 of the then Crown Prince Abdullah as head of the National Guard (formed originally from the descendants of those who fought alongside King Abdul Aziz (Ibn Saud) to consolidate the Kingdom) was particularly appropriate in view of his intimate knowledge of the tribes of the Kingdom and his love of the desert and its traditions.
Since his appointment, the King has transformed the National Guard into not only an effective modern military force but also a unique social and cultural institution. He has played a particularly noteworthy role in preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage of the Kingdom.
A major element in the preservation of the Kingdom's heritage is the annual National Heritage and Cultural Festival, inaugurated in 1985, and held in Jenadriyah. With the King as its patron, the Festival which includes folksong, dance and literary events, attracts visitors from all over the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
