Who is the heir of Kuwait?
The current heir apparent of Kuwait is Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. He was appointed crown prince in October 2020 by his half-brother, Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, following the passing of Emir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
What is the religion of the royal family in Kuwait?
The Kuwaiti royal family, the Al-Sabah family, practices Islam and follows the Sunni branch of the religion. Islam is central to Kuwait’s culture and government, and the royal family is deeply connected to its religious traditions and values.
Where did the Al Sabah family come from?
The Al Sabah family originally came from the Arabian Peninsula, specifically the Anizah tribe. In the early 18th century, they migrated from Najd (in present-day Saudi Arabia) to Kuwait. The family settled there and later established themselves as Kuwait’s ruling family.
When was Kuwait a British colony?
Kuwait was never a full British colony but became a British protectorate in 1899. This agreement gave Britain control over Kuwait’s foreign affairs and defense while the Al Sabah family continued to rule internally.
Why is the Al-Sabah family considered the ruling family in Kuwait?
The Al-Sabah family is Kuwait’s ruling family because they have led the country since the early 18th century when Sheikh Sabah I became the first ruler. As one of the leading families among the settlers, they gained respect for their leadership and diplomatic skills, and over time, they established a stable government structure.
How did the Al-Sabah family first come to rule over Kuwait?
The Al-Sabah family came to rule over Kuwait through a unique consensus among the local tribes and merchants who settled there in the early 1700s. Given Kuwait’s strategic coastal location, the settlers recognized the need for stable leadership, choosing Sheikh Sabah I bin Jaber as their leader for his wisdom, diplomacy, and ability to unite the community.
Table of Contents
Historical Overview of the Al-Sabah Dynasty
The Al-Sabah family has been at the center of Kuwait’s leadership since 1752 when local merchants and tribes chose them to govern the growing coastal town of Kuwait City.
As Kuwait evolved, the Al-Sabah family was crucial in guiding the country through major historical milestones, including the 1961 declaration of independence from British protection.[1]
The family’s leadership was tested during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990 and faced the challenge of rallying international support for liberation, maintaining governance in exile, and preserving Kuwait’s sovereignty amidst widespread destruction and occupation.
Despite internal challenges, such as opposition, reform demands, and accusations of corruption, the Al-Sabah family managed to influence oil revenues and strategic foreign alliances, especially with Western powers.
The Al-Sabah Dynasty: Key Monarchs and Leaders
Sheikh Sabah I (1752)
Sheikh Sabah I became the first ruler of Kuwait after the formal establishment of the Al-Sabah family’s leadership in the region.
His diplomatic abilities and strong relationships with neighboring tribes were vital to maintaining Kuwait’s independence and avoiding domination by more immense powers, such as the Ottoman Empire.
Sheikh Sabah’s leadership set the foundation for Kuwait as a hub in regional trade networks by establishing secure trade routes and fostering partnerships with merchants from Central Arabia, Iraq, and Persia.
Through diplomatic ties and securing the safety of maritime and overland trade, Sheikh Sabah I positioned Kuwait as a critical intermediary in the exchange of goods like spices, textiles, and pearls across the Gulf region and beyond.
Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah (1896–1915)
Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah, also known as “Mubarak the Great,” was the great-great-grandson of Sheikh Sabah I.
His rise was decided by internal family conflict, but once he assumed leadership, he made important changes that would shape Kuwait’s future.
Realizing the geopolitical threats from more immense regional powers, including the Ottoman Empire and neighboring Saudi Arabia, Mubarak established strong ties with the British Empire.
In 1899, he signed an agreement that made Kuwait a British protectorate, safeguarding Kuwait’s autonomy while benefiting from British naval protection.[2]
This move was strategic in securing Kuwait’s trade routes and deterring possible invasions from surrounding regions.
Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah (1950–1965)
Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah is best known for leading Kuwait to independence in 1961. During his rule, he negotiated the end of the British protectorate, declaring Kuwait a fully sovereign state.
In 1962, he played a vital role in creating Kuwait’s Constitution, which introduced a parliamentary system.[3]
Sheikh Abdullah’s era also showed a noticeable economic transformation fueled by Kuwait’s burgeoning oil revenues. With this newfound wealth, he focused on building Kuwait City’s infrastructure and improving healthcare, education, and other public services.
Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah (1977–2006)
Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah guided Kuwait through the Iraqi invasion in 1990 and the subsequent Gulf War.
During the invasion, he rallied international support from exile, working closely with allies such as the United States and neighboring Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, to liberate Kuwait.[4]
After the war, Sheikh Jaber faced the daunting task of rebuilding the country, which had suffered extensive damage. He prioritized restoring Kuwait’s infrastructure, oversaw the continuation of its oil production, and reestablished the Kuwaiti parliament, which had been suspended long before the war.
In addition to the post-war reconstruction, Sheikh Jaber pushed for political and social reforms. Since that time, freedom of the press has grown and social problems are treated as taboo topics of discussion on the national stage.
Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah (2006–2020)
Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah assumed leadership in 2006 and drew on his diplomatic experience to handle tricky situations in the Gulf, including disputes between Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and nearby countries.
His balanced approach made Kuwait a neutral ground for dialogue. Whether it was the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) disputes or conflicts in Iraq and Yemen, Sheikh Sabah worked to broker peace and promote stability in a region often noticeable by tension.
During his time in power, he tried to strengthen the parliament and tackle economic issues. Most notable is his attempt to diversify Kuwait’s economy beyond just oil.
The Line of Succession in the Kuwait Royal Family
While succession has historically been passed from father to son, it also involves consultation with senior family members to provide a smooth transition. The emir nominates a crown prince, usually selected based on seniority, experience, and capability to lead the nation, who the parliament then approves.
This approach helps maintain consistency and avoids internal disagreements.
When it comes to choosing a new ruler, succession is generally shared between the two main branches of the Al-Sabah family: the Al-Jaber and Al-Salem branches.[5] Traditionally, the leadership alternates between these two lines to balance power within the family.
This rotation helps manage potential conflicts and guarantees that both branches have a stake in Kuwait’s leadership. The family council and other senior members are instrumental in nominating the next leader, confirming that the choice reflects the family’s collective interests.
Modern Royal Family Members and Their Roles
Today, Kuwait’s leadership is headed by Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (since 2020) and Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (since 2020).
Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah
Sheikh Mishal, born in 1940, is the son of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and is currently the emir of Kuwait.
Before stepping into his role as emir following the death of his half-brother, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, he held various key government positions, including Deputy Chief of the National Guard.
Sheikh Mishal has focused on strengthening Kuwait’s sovereignty and stability, especially with challenges from neighboring countries.[6] He’s also pushed for economic diversification to lessen Kuwait’s reliance on oil.
Sheikh Mohammed Al-Khalid Al-Sabah
Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah was appointed crown prince of Kuwait on June 1, 2024.[7] This selection notably marks the first time a member from the Al-Hamad branch of the ruling Al-Sabah family has been chosen for this role, breaking the long-standing tradition of selecting crown princes from the Al-Jaber or Al-Salim branches.
Before stepping into this position, Sheikh Sabah had an extensive political career, serving as Kuwait’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, the head of the National Security Bureau, and Kuwait’s prime minister from 2019 until 2022.
Before his premiership, he was the foreign minister from 2011 to 2019, where he helped shape Kuwait’s foreign policy during a period marked by regional tensions.
However, his term as prime minister was characterized by substantial political turmoil and conflicts with the National Assembly, ultimately leading to his resignation.
Other Prominent Members of the Al-Sabah Family
Apart from the emir and the crown prince, several members of the Al-Sabah family hold key positions within the Kuwaiti government and seem to swap and change them with regularity.
One prominent figure is Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, who was appointed Prime Minister of Kuwait on July 24, 2022. His leadership focused on addressing political challenges and introducing reforms. He stepped down from his position on December 20, 2023.
Other notable members of the Al-Sabah family include:
- Sheikh Talal Khaled Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah: He has served as Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior, and Acting Minister of Defense, contributing to Kuwait’s security and defense policies.
- Sheikh Salem Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah: As Minister of Foreign Affairs, he has worked extensively on shaping Kuwait’s international relations.
- Sheikh Ahmad Fahad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah: He has held cabinet positions such as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, focusing on national defense and strategic initiatives.
These individuals have been instrumental in influencing Kuwait’s governance and policy-making processes through their expertise and leadership.
Kuwait Royal Family’s Influence on Politics and Society
The Al-Sabah family’s influence in Kuwait extends far beyond their official titles within the political structure. As the heads of state and critical decision-makers, they not only set the tone for government but also guide major national policies.
Through the family council, senior members of the Al-Sabah family play an active role in selecting and appointing ministers, making sure that the family’s vision aligns with Kuwait’s political agenda.
They often act as mediators in political disputes, balancing power between the parliament and the cabinet.
Beyond politics, the Al-Sabah family significantly impacts social policies, the economy, and international relations, notably by leveraging Kuwait’s oil revenues to secure strategic partnerships with global powers and by playing a key role in mediating regional conflicts, such as their efforts to resolve the 2017 Gulf Cooperation Council crisis.
Additionally, the family is involved in philanthropy and funding educational, cultural, and healthcare projects that shape Kuwait’s social landscape, exemplified by the establishment of the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre and the Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Cardiac Centre, which provide world-class facilities for the arts and medical care.[8]
Wrapping Up the Kuwait Royal Family Tree
Kuwait’s royal family has maintained power from 1752 until now, withstanding threats from imperialism and regional conflict alike.
Thanks to its unique system of succession and a seemingly endless supply of oil, it will likely persist for many years to come.
References
- Helfont, Samuel. October 23, 2015. “Post-Colonial States and the Struggle for Identity in the Middle East Since World War Two.” Foreign Policy Research Institute. https://www.fpri.org/article/2015/10/post-colonial-states-and-the-struggle-for-identity-in-the-middle-east-since-world-war-two/.
- Tossini, J. Vitor. July 26, 2019. “The UK in the Persian Gulf: Historical Involvement and Military Presence.” UK Defence Journal. https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/the-uk-in-the-persian-gulf-historical-involvement-and-military-presence/.
- Kuwait News Agency. 2024. “Kuwait Celebrates its 62nd Anniversary of the Constitution and Kuwait Vision 2035.” Kuwait News Agency. https://www.kuna.net.kw/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=3199049&language=en.
- U.S. Department of State. 2021. “U.S. Relations with Kuwait.” U.S. Department of State. https://www.state.gov/u-s-relations-with-kuwait/.
- Henderson, Simon. October 25, 2016. Gulf Succession: Qatar’s Model Could Be the Way Forward.” The Washington Institute. https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/gulf-succession-qatars-model-could-be-way-forward
- Felerstein, Gerald. June 10,2024. “The Clock Is Ticking to Reset Kuwait’s Economic Course and Reinstate Legislature.” Middle East Institute. https://mei.edu/publications/clock-ticking-reset-kuwaits-economic-course-and-reinstate-legislature
- Mustafa, Ahmed. June 04, 2024. Regional Power Dynamics in the Gulf: Kuwait’s Unique Diplomatic Position.” Ahram Online. https://english.ahram.org.eg/News/524833.aspx.
- U.S. Department of Commerce. 2023. “Healthcare Sector in Kuwait.” U.S. International Trade Administration. https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/kuwait-healthcare#:~:text=Examples%20of%20the%20recent%20completed,which%20was%20launched%20in%202021.