National Day of Kuwait (2026)

On the 25th of February every year, Kuwait celebrates its National Day to mark Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah’s ascension to the throne in 1950 as well as his death in 1965. Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah is a highly regarded leader of Kuwait because of his significant contributions that helped the country achieve independence. This is why the Kuwaitis consider February 25th an important day for their nation.

Here is everything you need to know about National Day in Kuwait.

Table of Contents

• Is National Day in Kuwait a public holiday?
• History of Kuwait National Day
• Important Kuwait National Day Symbols
• Kuwait National Day Activities and Celebrations
• Past and Future Observances of Kuwait National Day

Is National Day in Kuwait a public holiday?

National Day in Kuwait is a public holiday. Every February 25th, government offices, schools, and most businesses pause their operations to join in the national celebrations.

History of Kuwait National Day

At present, the Kuwait National Day is celebrated in honor of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah’s ascension to the throne and his death 15 years later. Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah was dedicated the honor of a national holiday because of his critical role in the attainment of liberty for Kuwait. Here is what you should know about why this particular Sheikh is revered by the people in Kuwait.

Kuwait started as a small fishing village. Later on, it was able to make a mark as a key trading post and boat building center in the Middle East. This change was attributed by historians to Kuwait’s strategic location. In 1756, the Al-Sabah family started a dynasty which until now rules Kuwait.

After several years of peaceful existence in their small nation, the Kuwaitis faced a dilemma in 1899. Faced with a choice to be ruled by the Ottoman Empire or become a British Protectorate, Sheik Mubarak (many call him Sheikh Mubarak “the Great”) decided to choose the latter option. In the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire was one of the most powerful forces in Eurasia. Thus, the rulers of Kuwait felt that a European protection would be beneficial for the nation. During this year, Kuwait officially became a British Protectorate. Hence, Kuwait received naval protection from the British in return for British control over the country’s international relations.

On the 19th of June, 1961, through the leadership of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, Kuwait gained its independence from British rule. The efforts which resulted in this success were anchored on the belief that Kuwait was finally ready to be entirely independent. Thus, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah arranged for friendly negotiations with the British diplomats. Consequently, the British agreed to let go of Kuwait as its protectorate. Instead, a Friendship Agreement was signed between the representatives of Kuwait and British, which states that the countries will maintain friendly ties but the Protectorate Agreement would be completely disregarded.

A year later, Kuwait celebrated its first National Day on June 19th, in observance of the date of independence. However, the majority decided to move the date to another month since the climate in June in Kuwait is extremely hot. Thus, in 1963, it was enacted that the National Day be moved to February 25th, which is the date of the current Sheikh’s (Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah) ascension to the throne in 1950. On this same day in 1965, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah passed away.

Important Kuwait National Day Symbols

On Kuwait National Day, the streets are filled with the colors of the national flag. Using the pan-Arab colors of white, red, black, and green, the national flag is the most important symbol of National Day celebrations in Kuwait. Each color symbolizes a part of Kuwait’s national history: green represents fertility, white depicts peace, red symbolizes armed struggle during the quest for its independence, and black stands for the defeat of the country’s enemies. In essence, the flag reminds the people of unity and pride as one nation.

Kuwait National Day Activities and Celebrations

National Day in Kuwait is celebrated with vigor and enthusiasm. The Kuwaitis honor the day when their beloved country attained independence from the British and the day when one of their highly admired rulers was crowned. To celebrate National Day, the people decorate the streets, buildings, cars, and homes with patriotic emblems such as the colors of the national flag and the flag design. Moreover, there are spectacular fireworks displays for everyone to enjoy. Most communities also organize a public gathering which features lots of food, refreshments, and entertainment. In the streets, children throw water balloons or spray water guns at each other. Some people take the chance to bond with families on this occasion too. Usually, families head to the beach and public parks. Parks are filled with picnic mats and happy children in cheer. Likewise, most Kuwaitis wear the national costume to show their patriotic spirit.

This year, the Kuwait National Day celebration was a remarkable one as the country registered a world record for the longest flag. Officially recognized by the Guinness World Records Committee, the 2019-meter-long Kuwaiti flag formed by more than 4,000 students is the world’s longest flag as of date.

Past and Future Observances of Kuwait National Day

Below are the past and future observances of Kuwait National Day: