Emir of Kuwait

The Emir of the State of Kuwait is the monarch and head of state of Kuwait, and is the country's most powerful office. The emirs of Kuwait are members of the Al Sabah dynasty.
Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah became the emir of Kuwait on 16 December 2023, following the death of Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

Rules and traditions of succession

Succession to the throne of Kuwait was limited to the descendants of Mubarak Al-Sabah. The position of emir was also traditionally alternated between the two main branches of the Al Sabah family, the Al-Ahmed and Al-Salem branches. The reigning emir must appoint an heir apparent within one year of his accession to the throne; the nominee for consideration as crown prince has to be a senior member of the Al Sabah family. The prime minister is appointed by the emir.

Compensation

Annual compensation for the emir was defined. The annual compensation was set to 50 million KWD as of 2017.

List of rulers

Emirs of Bani Khalid">Bani Khalid Emirate">Bani Khalid (1669–1796)

Emirs of Kuwait (since 1752)

Timeline