The Kuwait National Day is celebrated on February 25 every year. This special holiday commemorates the day that Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah became the ruler of Kuwait in 1950. Al-Sabah was an exceptional leader. During his reign, he signed a treaty that secured Kuwait’s independence from Britain, putting an end to its status as a British protectorate in 1961. It was also during Al-Sabah’s rule that the Constitution of Kuwait and the Parliament of Kuwait were formally established. The first celebrations were held in 1963. People in Kuwait celebrate this day by going to different places, watching fireworks at night, hanging out with friends, and more. People decorate their houses with colorful lights, flags, and even candles are lit at dinner time. The historical places like Kuwait National Museum, Al Bahhar Entertainment Historical Village, Mirror House, and Kuwait Towers are decorated with light. Flags are hoisted in buildings and displayed in public spaces. The streets are alive to the early hours of the next morning each year. National Day is a public holiday in Kuwait.
In the early 17th century, Kuwait was established as a small fishing village with a tiny population. By the end of the 18th century, Kuwait began to flourish, and it became a major trading and boat building site. In 1756, the Al-Sabah family assumed power to rule Kuwait. Kuwait became independent in 1961 and Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah from the Al-Sabah family became emperor — this event is celebrated as National Day in Kuwait. The British protected the country against the invasion by the Turks in the same year.The history of Kuwait’s National Day can be traced back to 1950 when Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah became the ruler of Kuwait.Born in 1895, Al-Sabah was the first son of Salim Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah. From the time he ascended the throne in 1950, Al-Sabah distinguished himself as a unique leader of Kuwait. Unlike past rulers, Al-Sabah was determined to end British rule in Kuwait, which was finally accomplished in 1961. After signing a treaty, Kuwait ceased to be a protectorate of the British. Because of this, he is regarded as the founder of modern Kuwait. On November 11, 1962, Al-Sabah signed into law the Constitution of Kuwait. Al-Sabah unfortunately died in 1965 from a heart attack which he suffered during an opening session of the National Assembly.Officially known as the ‘State of Kuwait’, Kuwait is a country located in Western Asia. It shares borders with Iraq and Saudi Arabia, as well as a maritime border with Iran. Home to the world’s sixth-largest oil reserves, Kuwait is the fifth richest country in the world. Its currency, the ‘Dinar’, is the most valued currency in the entire world.Kuwait National Day is always celebrated with pomp and excitement. Public events are often held, as people gather in parks, restaurants, beaches and on the streets to commemorate the beautiful day. On the streets of Kuwait, the country’s national flag is displayed with pride and official receptions are organized by embassies, consulates and permanent missions. The Emir of Kuwait is working very hard to make the country a major economic port and a thriving democracy. He has approved the development plans that will be built to promote Kuwait as a global financial and commercial center. These projects are supposed to bring investment and income resources for the citizens. Along with this, the Emir is working tirelessly to build the nation’s unity and solidarity among the people. Thus far, Kuwait has emerged as a fair, just, and tolerant nation. From the day of its independence, Kuwait has made great progress and achieved prosperity.Normally, most countries celebrate their national day on the same date they gained independence. For Kuwait, it would mean that National Day is celebrated on June 19, marking the date of independence in 1961. However, the first National Day holiday actually took place on this date in 1962. The holiday was moved to February due to the extreme heat in June, and since 1963, the National Day has been celebrated on February 25 to mark the date that sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah came to power in 1950.
Kuwait National Day is celebrated with feasts, family get-togethers, public gatherings, and fireworks.
As part of the 2019 National Day celebrations, Kuwait registered a world record for the longest flag. Over 4,000 students paraded with a 6,624-foot Kuwaiti flag, which was officially recognized by the Guinness World Records.
The colors’ meaning came from a poem by Safie Al-Deen Al-Hali: “White are our deeds. Black are our battles. Green is our land. Red are our swords.”
