From being a small fishing village to a country with a rich heritage and culture, Kuwait is a popular destination in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Understanding the history and political inference in the past, Kuwait as a nation has strived to attain its independence and become an independent State of Kuwait. Every year on 25th Feb, the country celebrates Kuwait National Day, rejoicing over the independence and Ascension of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah in 1950. But there is more to the history and significance of the day amongst the citizens. Here is every detail of past events that one needs to know about Kuwait National Day.
History of Kuwait
Do you know the history of Kuwait National Day? Back in the 17th Century, Kuwait was a small fishing village with a low population, but by the end of the 18th century, the country began to flourish. Soon Kuwait was known as a trading point and boat building point in the region.
The Al Sabah family ascended to the throne of Kuwait in 1756 and ruled the country ever since. Sheikh Mubarak 'the Great' chose to become a British Protectorate in 1899. Britain would provide naval protection in exchange for Kuwait allowing Britain to oversee its foreign affairs. Later Kuwait gained independence from the British protectorate on June 19, 1961, and Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah was appointed Emir.
Kuwait gained independence from all rules in 1961, and Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah of the Al-Sabah dynasty was crowned emperor, which is now celebrated as the National Day of Kuwait. Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah, who played a key part in Kuwait's independence, is regarded as the personification of this national festival in Kuwait. Due to the high heat in June, it was decided that the holiday should be changed, hence the National Day was moved to February 25th in 1963, honoring the date that the Sheikh who was in authority at the time of independence, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah, came to power in 1950.
The Significant Symbols of Kuwait National Day
Kuwait National Day celebration holds great significance in the history and lives of the citizens. The national flag is the most significant element for celebrating National Day of Kuwait. The streets are decorated with vibrant hues of red, black, and green, symbolizing the beauty of the Kuwait National Flag. You can also spot the homes, malls, and offices hoisting flags and rejoicing the day.
Each color of the flag has its own significance stating- Green as fertility, white as peace, red represents the struggle during independence and black color represents the defeat of enemies. Remembering the struggles, urge, and hardships faced before and during independence, the entire country drapes in the beauty of patriotism and celebrates with utmost enthusiasm.
One interesting fact on Kuwait National Day is that it has made a world record in the Guinness book for making the longest flag on the event. More than 4000 students marched to make the ceremony grand and memorable. While every year there is something different planned to celebrate the national festival in Kuwait, this year too, the nation will make the event memorable and remarkable for the world.
Suggested Read: Best Things To Do In Kuwait That Offers An Incredible Experience To Every Traveler
How Kuwait National Day 2025 Will Be Celebrated?
The city comes alive with celebrations on February 25th and 26th, marking Kuwait National Day and Liberation Day, respectively. These occasions are more than just public holidays as they are a powerful expression of national pride, reflecting Kuwait’s resilience and journey to independence. Both days are important in Kuwait’s history as National Day honors Kuwait’s emergence as an independent nation meanwhile, Liberation Day celebrates the end of the Gulf War and Kuwait’s liberation from Iraqi occupation in 1991. Together, these days embody the nation’s sovereignty and enduring triumph of peace and freedom over adversity.
The first Kuwait National Day celebrations were held in the year 1963. Since then, people celebrate this auspicious day on February 25th every year with vigor and enthusiasm. The streets come alive with vibrant decorations, and historical places like the Kuwait Towers and the Kuwait National Museum are adorned with lights. From parades to social gatherings, and massive fireworks to cultural events, Happy National Day in Kuwait is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fun. Every citizen tries to make this day historic with his active participation. The festivities honor Kuwait's predecessors and ancestors who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country's advancement. Wishes and greetings are exchanged by phone calls, text messages, and social media posts. Here are some common events or things to do in Kuwait to celebrate National Day 2025.
The hotels and many important buildings are decorated with vibrant lights making a pattern of Kuwait’s flag. Fireworks are often fired off in open areas such as the beach, which spread across the sky, displaying the joy of the day.
At night, historical sites such as the Kuwait National Museum, Al Bahhar Entertainment Historical Village, Mirror House, and Kuwait Towers are beautifully illuminated. Fireworks are also set at open spaces like the beach which spread over the sky presenting the happiness of that day.
People gather around at some famous attractions in Kuwait such as parks, beaches, and restaurants. They meet with their friends or stroll around the town's streets and malls. Jumeirah Messilah Beach and Al-Sha'ab Leisure Park are the most crowded spots in the city to celebrate the ceremony.
Children and even the elderly dress in traditional attire to display their love for their homeland. Every year, the streets are alive until the early hours of the morning, with everything from live performances to fireworks and traditional food pleasures.
Kuwait National Day will be celebrated on February 25th, 2025, that will fall on Tuesday this year, remembering the history and significance of their ruler who helped in the development and sustainability of the nation. From fireworks to cultural events, and parades to jaw-dropping fireworks, there will be a grand celebration that will reflect the rich history and heritage of the country. Explore the museums and understand the historic events related to the independence of the country. There are flights to Kuwait operating from every country, inviting tourists to discover its rich art and celebrate the event with the citizens. So, book your tickets today and get ready to delve into the rich history and customs of the nation.
Kuwait National Day - FAQ's
Kuwait gained independence from all rules in 1961, and Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah of the Al-Sabah dynasty was crowned emperor on June 19th, which was marked as National Day of Kuwait. But later it was decided to celebrate the day on 25th Feb.
Kuwait National Day date falls on 25th February every year, and this year it will fall on Tuesday It celebrates the creation of Kuwait as a nation in 1961.
Yes, National Day in Kuwait is a public holiday. The festivities honor Kuwait's predecessors and ancestors who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country's advancement. The country celebrates the day with great enthusiasm.
Yes, Kuwait celebrates its national day on 25th Feb with cultural events, fireworks, and more. The day honors the Sheikh who was in authority at the time of independence and helped the nation attain independence from all the rulers.
From Parades to social gatherings and fireworks, the national day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fun. The people, students, and members of the governing bodies, every citizen tries to make the day historic with his active precipitation. Wishes and greetings are exchanged by phone calls, text messages, and social media posts.
On National Day, people gather around at some famous attractions in Kuwait, such as parks, beaches, and restaurants. They meet with their friends or stroll around the town's streets and malls. Jumeirah Messilah Beach and Al-Sha'ab Leisure Park are the most crowded spots in the city to celebrate the ceremony. Some Kuwaitis prefer to decorate their homes with flags and lights.
Kuwait attained independence on 19th June 1961, and the National Day was celebrated on the respective date for a few years. Later, due to the high heat in June, it was decided that the holiday should be changed, hence the National Day was moved to February 25th in 1963, honoring the date of the Sheikh who was in authority at the time of independence.
Yes, at night, historical sites such as the Kuwait National Museum, Al Bahhar Entertainment Historical Village, Mirror House, and Kuwait Towers are illuminated, and fireworks are fired off. Fireworks are also set at open spaces like the beach which spread over the sky presenting the happiness of that day.
Kuwait experiences a very hot and humid summer, therefore, winters are the best time to visit the country. You can plan the holiday from November to March or April when the climate is cold and pleasant.
Kuwait's actual Independence Day was on June 19, 1961, when it gained independence from British rule. However, June is the time when summer is at its peak in Kuwait and that's unbearable. Hence, it was later shifted to 25th February marking the anniversary of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah's ascension to the throne in 1950 and his efforts in gaining independence.
