Brazilian football player Neymar drew everyone’s attention when he dressed in traditional Saudi attire during preparations for the Kingdom’s Founding Day festivities.

His team, Al-Hilal, posted photos of the player wearing the thobe, shemagh, and headband famously associated with the late King Abdulaziz, capturing the whole atmosphere before of the game.

Neymar was joined by Esteve Calzada, CEO of Al-Hilal, and Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, as well as other teammates, in performing the Ardah, Saudi Arabia’s national dance, which trended on social media site X.

The frequently used white thobe in the Kingdom, which is preferred for its comfort in the hot climate and desert location, is supplemented by other traditional apparel for important occasions. This includes Almorudan, which is worn over the thobe and is recognised by its long arms. It is frequently worn during Ardah performances.

The 32-year-old recently returned to Riyadh to complete his recovery after having surgery to repair a damaged cruciate ligament in his left knee. He suffered the injury during Brazil’s defeat to Uruguay in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers last October.

Every year on February 22, the Kingdom celebrates Founding Day to honour Imam Mohammed bin Saud’s establishment in 1727 CE.

The Saudi Ministry of Sports has declared that the 21st round of the Roshan Professional League tournament will be dubbed the Founding Round to commemorate the day’s significance.

Neymar isn’t the only athlete that celebrated Founding Day with his Saudi fans. Last year, Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo was photographed wearing traditional clothing among his Al-Nassr teammates.