Newsfeed
Sunday, February 25 marked Kuwait National Day. Now in it’s 63rd year, the annual holiday commemorates the day that Sheikh Abdullah As Salim Al Sabah became the ruler of Kuwait.
Sheikh Abduallah was an exceptional leader and during his reign from 1950 to 1961, he achieved many great victories for the emirate, including securing Kuwait’s independence from Britain, and establishing the Parliament and Constitution of Kuwait.
To celebrate the special day, Kuwaiti residents congregate with friends and family, decorate their houses with colourful lights, flags and candles, and eagerly await the spectacular fireworks display.
While the celebratory atmosphere pays homage to Sheikh Abdullah during his ruling, the day also acknowledges the entire Al Sabah dynasty, and the important roles Kuwaiti royals play in the community today – from their charitable initiatives to advocating for mental health.
Below, GRAZIA shares 5 Kuwaiti royals you should know about.
HH Sheikha Intisar Al Sabah
A princess of the royal family, Sheikha Intisar is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, author, columnist, and film producer. She is passionate about women empowerment and promoting peace within the Arab region.
She is also the founder of the Intisar Foundation, which uses drama therapy as a tool to help Arab women who have been traumatised by war and violence. Her other initiative, Alnowair, was founded in 2013 and seeks to bring about positive social behavioural change amongst youth in Kuwait.
Her Highness is also an established creator. She has produced four award-winning films and numerous publications that honour Kuwait and its women.
HH Shiekha Majda Al Sabah
Daughter of Sheikh Jaber Humoud Al-Jaber Al Sabah and Sheikha Amthal Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and the sister of the former Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, HH Sheikha Majda Al Sabah is entrenched in royal lineage, and was formally a successful beauty entrepreneur.
Today, she uses her platform to speak about mental health issues through her non-profit organisation, Houna Initiative. Founded in 2022, Houna is an online support portal for those struggling with mental health. Her aim is to destigmatise the topic in the Arab region, while connecting with other mental health and wellness practitioners.
HH Sheikha Bashayer Al Sabah Arab
Daughter of HH Nayed Jaber Al Sabah, Sheikha Bashayer is a successful entrepreneur, lifestyle figure and social media influencer. She was previously an honourary member of the Arab Fashion Council, while also having a strong philanthropic streak. Combined with her charitable causes and stylish image, she is well liked amongst Kuwaiti natives.
Sheikha Abrar Al Sabah
As the Founder of Abbey Productions, Sheikha Abrar wants to change the stereotypical portrayal of Arab females in the global sphere. Through her media company, she seeks to nurture female filmmaking talent in the region – from writers, producers, directors, and actors – as well as expose authentic and raw stories from the region to the world.
Sheikha Fatima Mubarak Al Sabah
With a BA in Communications and Media from the American University of Kuwait, Sheikha Fatima has a passion for animal welfare, societal upliftment, and self-care. Through her multiple entrepreneurial ventures, she seeks to always inject positivity and happiness into the world. Currently, she is part of the Kuwaiti society for the protection of Animals and their Habitats, while she also has an interest in crystal therapy and alternative healing practices. In 2015, she founded aromatherapy beauty care brand, Prismologie, in partnership with her mom, Sheikha Intisar.
