Cultural Holidays in Kuwait
Kuwait City is a modern capital that is as cosmopolitan as any in the Arabian Peninsula. The pulse point of Kuwait has duly become more and more of a tourist magnet over the last decade. Resorts in Kuwait now share the limelight with the very best in the region.
In tandem with this development, the city’s points of interest have become more diverse and plentiful. The Scientific Center of Kuwait is a first-rate node of environmental education for the entire family. The capital’s aquarium is one of the most sophisticated and notable in the entire region, with many exceptional examples of local marine life. Kuwait City also teems with manicured parks and scenic areas, such as Messilah Beach, which proffers exceptional views of the Gulf. The ultimate landmark in the city, the Kuwait Towers, features a remarkable observation deck that rotates 360 degrees every half hour. Another vantage point for spectacular views, the Kazmah desert cliffs, reside just outside the city.
Those who want to delve further to the heart of Kuwaiti culture can do so in Souq Al-Mubarakiya, where stalls offer traditional handicrafts and other wares. The Grand Mosque and Seif Palace, of course, serve as vital, adjacent symbols of the country. Both contain magnificent architectural details and mindful post-First Gulf War restorations. The Kuwait National Museum is the cultural archive of record in the country and a terrific showcase for regional objects and relics. Sadu House, close to the National Museum, is a platform for Bedouin arts and culture to shine. Farther afield, the ferry-accessible island of Failaka is home to archaeological sites that offer superb insights into Kuwait’s rich past, with vestiges of Bronze Age and Greek artefacts on display.
Above and beyond these wonderful landmarks, Kuwait’s many holidays also offer visitors a chance to commune with the country’s inherent culture.
Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan fast, is a major holiday that lasts for three days. It is a solemn and celebratory time in Islam.
Eid al-Adha or the Feast of the Sacrifice, the Major Festival or the Greater Eid, is the second of the two major religious holidays that Muslims celebrate in Kuwait and the world over every year. Eid al-Adha commemorates Abraham’s (Ibrahim) sacrifice of Ishmael (Ismail) to God-Allah. Eid al-Adha takes place on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah and is generally a four day affair.
Other religious holidays in Kuwait, like Al-Israa Wa Al-Mearaj (the Night of Muhammad’s Ascension) and the New Hejri Year are observed for only one day but are nonetheless vital. Al-Mawled Al-Nabawy, for example, commemorates one of the most important religious holidays. The celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday in January is a spiritual and festive time. People sing chants of praise, study the Holly Qur’an and offer alms to the poor.
Another cultural and religious occasion in Kuwait is Al-Qarqiaan. This takes place on the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth nights of Ramadan and sees children wander their neighborhoods in song and prayer to Allah. They generally receive candy and nuts for their efforts.
Other holidays in Kuwait go in accordance to the Gregorian calendar, such as New Year’s Day on January 1 and National Day and Liberation Day February 25 and 26, which celebrate the country’s independence.
Travelling around the world has left Brian with an ambition of becoming one of the worlds best travel writers and aims to write about events, news, and anything travel related.
