Public holidays in Kuwait are more than just days off. They reflect national pride, religious traditions, and moments where families and communities come together. Whether you’re a resident, an expatriate, a business traveler, or an employer — knowing the public holidays in Kuwait helps you plan travel, work schedules, leave, payroll, and quality time in advance.
Below is the complete overview of Kuwait national holidays 2026, followed by a deeper look of upcoming holidays at what each celebration means for people and businesses.
List of Public Holidays in Kuwait 2026
Date | Day | Holiday / Occasion |
1 January 2026 | Thursday | New Year’s Day |
16 January 2026 | Friday | Isra and Mi’raj |
25 February 2026 | Wednesday | Kuwait National Day |
26 February 2026 | Thursday | Liberation Day |
20 March – 22 March 2026 | Friday- Sunday | Eid al-Fitr |
26 May 2026 | Tuesday | Arafat Day |
27 May – 29 May 2026 | Wednesday- Friday | Eid al-Adha |
17 June 2026 | Wednesday | Islamic New Year / Hijri New Year |
26 August 2026 | Wednesday | Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday |
Note: Many Islamic holidays — such as Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Waqfat Arafat, Islamic New Year, and Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday — are tentative because final dates depend on the lunar moonsighting.
What These Public Holidays in Kuwait Holidays Mean
Here are detailed descriptions of the key public holidays in Kuwait 2026, along with their cultural and religious context.
New Year’s Day (1 January 2026)
New Year’s Day in Kuwait may not be as extravagant as in some countries, yet the spirit of renewal is unmistakable. Many people enjoy a slow, relaxing start to the year — visiting malls, meeting friends, or spending peaceful hours with family. Public spaces come alive with this public holidays in Kuwait with a cheerful atmosphere as the whole country welcomes a fresh beginning.
Isra and Mi'raj (16 January 2026)
Isra and Mi’raj marks the miraculous night journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is a quiet but deeply spiritual day. Many people in this Kuwait national holiday dedicate it to prayer, self-reflection, and gratitude. Families often gather in the evening for gentle discussions and peaceful observance, giving the day a warm, introspective feel.
National Day (25 February 2026)
On February 25, Kuwait bursts with patriotic color. From flags draped over buildings to light shows, parades, and cultural events — the day is filled with joy and unity. Families visit outdoor events and waterfront celebrations, making it one of the most energetic Kuwait national holidays of the year.
Liberation Day (26 February 2026)
Celebrated on February 26, Liberation Day honors Kuwait’s freedom regained in 1991. Beyond festivities, there is heartfelt reflection. People pay tribute to those who defended the nation and rebuilt it. Schools, families, organizations, and communities often share stories that inspire pride and gratitude.
Eid al-Fitr (20 March – 22 March 2026)
Eid al-Fitr holiday in Kuwait marks the end of Ramadan — a month of fasting, self-discipline, and spiritual cleansing. Homes fill with traditional foods, sweets, gifts, and the cheerful sounds of family reunions. Many people travel or take extended breaks, making Eid one of Kuwait’s most anticipated public holidays every year. The additional holidays create a long weekend, perfect for family visits, community gatherings, and charity events. Parks, beaches, and resorts become lively with families enjoying their well-deserved rest.
Arafat Day (26 May 2026)
Arafat Day, the holiest day for many Muslims, is observed with fasting (for those not performing Hajj), prayer, and deep contemplation. This is one of the public holidays in Kuwait that sets the tone for the celebrations of Eid al-Adha that follow. The day is peaceful, reverent, and spiritually uplifting.
Eid al-Adha (27 May – 29 May 2026)
Eid al-Adha honors the values of sacrifice, gratitude, and compassion. Families gather for early morning prayers, followed by rituals, feasts, and charitable giving. Homes glow with togetherness as loved ones share meals and celebrate unity. With weekdays off, residents often travel across the GCC or enjoy staycations. The long break helps people rest, reconnect with loved ones, and prepare for the return to daily routines.
Islamic New Year (17 June 2026)
The Islamic New Year marks the start of the Hijri calendar. Unlike other holidays, this is a calm and introspective day. Many with this national holiday in Kuwait people reflect on personal growth, renew spiritual intentions, and spend meaningful time with their family.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (26 August 2026)
Mawlid al-Nabi is observed with prayers, religious lectures, and storytelling that highlights the compassion and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Families share meals and reflect on kindness, humility, and faith — values that give this day its special warmth.
Conclusion
Understanding the list of public holidays in Kuwait in 2026 is beyond just noting the date; rather, it involves tapping into the country’s rich cultural roots, deeply connected to religious importance and national pride. These public holidays in Kuwait are able to facilitate gathering, enhance social vision, and provide individuals with an opportunity for proper rest, reflection, and merriment. For residents, expatriates, and visitors alike, such knowledge facilitates the planning of travel, personal commitments, and family events with clarity and respect.
Equally important is holiday planning for businesses. Awareness of upcoming holidays by the HR team helps them manage leaves, attendance, shift planning, and payroll adjustments smoothly without disrupting operations.
Smart HR platforms like Zimyo make it further easier by automating holiday calendars, streamlining approvals, and ensuring compliance with Kuwait Labor Law. With efficient tools in place, organizations can maintain seamless operations while employees enjoy a well-organized, hassle-free holiday experience.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
It depends on the official government holiday calendar and announcements regarding moon sighting for Islamic holidays. The residents can look at the Kuwait public holiday schedule or the Ministry of Awqaf updates to confirm it.
Yes, Friday is the official weekly holiday in Kuwait. Most government offices, schools, and private companies remain closed.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha generally last 2–4 days, depending on the sighting of the moon and official government announcements. Additional paid public holidays may be given around the festival.
Public holidays in Kuwait offer the 12-13 public holidays in year 2026.
