Which country officially celebrated Valentine’s Day for the first time on 14 February 2019?

The country that officially celebrated Valentine’s Day for the first time on 14 February 2019 is Saudi Arabia. This historic moment marked a significant cultural change in the kingdom, which for many years had discouraged or restricted celebrations associated with Valentine’s Day due to religious and cultural reasons. Before 2019, selling red roses, heart-shaped decorations, or Valentine-themed gifts was not allowed in many parts of the country, and shops avoided displaying anything linked to the holiday.

However, in 2019, Saudi Arabia began adopting a more open and modern approach as part of its broad social and cultural reforms under Vision 2030, a national program aimed at transforming society, boosting tourism, and increasing social openness. The change allowed shops to openly sell Valentine’s gifts, including flowers, chocolates, and cards, without fear of penalties. This shift was widely noticed around the world because it represented how quickly Saudi society was embracing new cultural norms and global trends.

The celebration of Valentine’s Day in Saudi Arabia also symbolized a growing acceptance of international customs and a move towards encouraging personal expression and social freedoms. It became a clear example of how the country is balancing its traditions with modern lifestyles. In many cities—especially Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam—stores fully decorated their shelves with Valentine’s items, and couples were able to exchange gifts publicly for the first time.