Fri Nov 01 21:09:46 UTC 2024: ## Fireworks Video Mistaken for Diwali Celebrations in Saudi Arabia is Actually from 2023
A video circulating on social media claiming to show Diwali celebrations in Saudi Arabia has been debunked as false. India Today Fact Check has determined that the footage predates Diwali 2024 and likely shows a fireworks display in Riyadh from November 2023.
The video initially gained traction with posts suggesting it was from the recent Diwali festivities in Saudi Arabia, but investigations reveal a different story. The video was first shared on September 23, 2023, with the caption “Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day,” indicating it was taken prior to Diwali, celebrated in October/November.
Further analysis uncovered additional instances of the video being shared on social media, including one post on August 27, 2023, captioned “Welcome to Dubai,” suggesting it could not have been from the Saudi National Day.
A thorough search revealed a live stream on the official YouTube channel of the Royal Commission in Riyadh from November 29, 2023, that featured a similar fireworks display. This event took place in Riyadh after the country won the bid for hosting Expo 2030, making it highly likely the viral video is from this celebration.
Therefore, while the exact date of the video cannot be confirmed, it is confirmed to not be related to Diwali celebrations in Saudi Arabia in 2024.
First Piper 