Kuwait is celebrating its Independence Day and its national day on February 25.
Kuwait, the small country on the Arabian Peninsula, gained independence from Britain on June 19, 1961, but the reason it celebrates its national holiday on this date in February is that it is the coronation day of Kuwait ruler Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah in 1950.
Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah, was the ruler of Kuwait from 1950 until his death in 1965. He worked hard to liberate Kuwait from British rule and gain its independence, until the Kuwaiti people decided to celebrate their national day on the day he ascended the throne.
Kuwait is a constitutional monarchy state, with an elected parliament legislating laws and a prime minister appointed by the head of state, the emir, something reminiscent of a king.
On the national holiday of Kuwait, residents of the country gather together and celebrate with drinking, eating, singing, dancing and fireworks.
Facts about Kuwait:
The Gulf War broke out in the late 1990s after Saddam Hussein invaded and captured Kuwait.
Kuwait is the richest country among the Muslim countries, thanks to the abundant oil it has.
It is ranked 11th among the richest countries in the world.
The capital of Kuwait is Kuwait City, which is one of the largest financial centers in the Middle East.
Kuwait has a total of about 2,800,000 people. The area of the country is 17,818 square kilometers.
Most Kuwaiti citizens are Muslim; it is estimated that 60% –65% are Sunni and 35% –40% are Shias.
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Kuwait City has 2 impressive water towers that stand on a cliff within the Persian Gulf. The main tower is 187 meters high and the second 142 meters high.
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| Hotel in Kuwait |
February 25 is also Clam Chowder Day