Kuwait

About Kuwait

History & background of Kuwait public holidays

Kuwait’s public holidays reflect key moments in the country’s modern history and national identity. National Day (25 February) marks the accession of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah in 1950, while Liberation Day (26 February) commemorates Kuwait’s liberation in 1991.

In addition to national milestones, Kuwait observes several Islamic religious holidays, including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Isra’a Wal Mi‘raj, Mawlid of Prophet Muhammad (saws), which shape annual work and leave patterns across the country.

New Year’s Day – January 1

New Year’s Day is observed as a one-day public holiday in Kuwait, marking the start of the calendar year. While not a religious or national observance, it is recognised nationwide and commonly observed across government institutions, private organisations, and educational establishments.

Isra’a Wal Mi‘raj - January 18

Isra’a Wal Mi‘raj commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s (saws) night journey and ascension to the heavens, an important event in Islamic tradition. It is observed as a religious public holiday in Kuwait and is widely recognised across sectors. The holiday is typically observed for one day and contributes to mid-year religious observances alongside other Islamic holidays.

National Day – February 25

Kuwait National Day, observed on 25 February, marks the accession of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah in 1950. It is one of the most important national holidays in Kuwait and is celebrated with public events, official ceremonies, and nationwide closures across government offices and many private businesses.

Liberation Day – February 26

Liberation Day, observed on 26 February, commemorates Kuwait’s liberation in 1991 following the Gulf War. Together with National Day, it forms a two-day national holiday period, making late February one of the most significant breaks in Kuwait’s public holiday calendar.

Eid Holidays in Kuwait 2026

Eid holidays are among the most widely observed public holidays in Kuwait, often resulting in extended closures and reduced business activity. These holidays apply across sectors and play a major role in leave planning and workforce scheduling.

Eid al-Fitr Holidays

March 20–22, 2026

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is observed in Kuwait as a three-day public holiday. It is a key religious occasion associated with family gatherings, charitable giving, and nationwide celebrations.

Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha Holidays

Arafat Day: May 26, 2026

Eid al-Adha: May 27–29, 2026

Arafat Day precedes Eid al-Adha, one of the most important Islamic festivals. Together, they form a four-day religious holiday period in Kuwait. This period often sees extended leave, travel activity, and temporary changes to business operations.

Islamic New Year – June 16

The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar year. It is observed as a one-day religious public holiday in Kuwait and is generally marked with reduced working hours or closures across institutions.

Prophet’s Birthday (Mawlid) – August 27

Prophet Muhammad’s (saws) birthday, also known as Mawlid, is observed as a religious public holiday in Kuwait. It commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (saws) and is recognised across the country with public observance and closures in many sectors.