Kuwait’s Five-Day National Day Holiday: Discover Must-Do Events And Attractions

Kuwait is about to take a well-earned break. With a five-day public holiday for National Day and Liberation Day, the country will come alive with celebrations, fireworks, and a rare pause from the usual workweek grind. From Tuesday, February 25, to Saturday, March 1, government offices will shut down, and the streets will fill with revelers.

For those who see an extended weekend as an opportunity rather than just time off, the question is—what's the best way to spend it? Whether you want to immerse yourself in the festivities, escape the crowds, or finally get around to that long-postponed plan, here's how to turn this five-day stretch into something memorable.

Stay in Kuwait

There's no better time to experience the full spectrum of Kuwait's energy than during National Day and Liberation Day. It's when the city transforms, the skyline lights up with fireworks, and for once, traffic jams feel more like part of the experience than an inconvenience.

- Fireworks Display – Kuwait's National Day fireworks are no small affair. In 2012, the country set a Guinness World Record for the largest fireworks show in history, and while the scale varies each year, the display remains the highlight of the celebrations. The best views are from Gulf Road and Marina Crescent.
- Cultural Events and Concerts – The February Festival brings major Arab artists to perform in Kuwait, alongside traditional dance performances and exhibitions across the city. Expect a lineup of cultural programming, from live music to historical showcases.
- Classic Car Parades – Vintage cars, draped in Kuwaiti flags, roll through the streets in a spectacle that's part history, part nostalgia, and a full expression of national pride.
- Family-Friendly Activities – Al Shaheed Park, Green Island, and Souq Al Mubarakiya will be hubs of activity, offering everything from interactive games to pop-up food stalls. These are ideal spots for those looking to celebrate in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

The Best Quick Trips from Kuwait

A five-day break is just long enough to leave the country without feeling rushed. If the idea of navigating crowds and traffic doesn't appeal, consider a quick trip to a neighboring destination.
- Dubai – Just 90 minutes by flight, Dubai is a hassle-free getaway with world-class shopping, desert safaris, and winter-perfect outdoor attractions. The Dubai Miracle Garden is in full bloom at this time of year.
- Bahrain – If a slower pace is preferable, Bahrain's combination of historic sites, modern art, and a thriving food scene makes for an ideal long weekend. The Bahrain Fort and Amwaj Islands are particularly worth visiting.
- Oman – For those drawn to natural beauty, Oman's landscapes provide a stunning contrast to Kuwait's urban energy. Muscat and Salalah offer everything from beachside relaxation to rugged mountain escapes.
- Saudi Arabia Road Trip – For those looking for a more unconventional choice, AlUla in Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming one of the region's top travel destinations. Its dramatic rock formations, historical sites like Hegra, and luxury desert resorts make for an unforgettable trip.

Experience Kuwait's Evolving Food Scene

A long weekend is the perfect excuse to step out of routine. Instead of heading to the usual restaurants, consider exploring something new.
- Street Food Festival – During National Day, street vendors take over, offering grilled meats, falafel, and Kuwaiti street food specialties. It's an opportunity to sample local flavors while soaking in the celebratory atmosphere.
- Dinner with a View – For something more refined, Salt (Jumeirah Messilah Beach) and Dar Hamad offer fantastic food with a view of the sea.
- Underrated Restaurants – For those wanting something different, Bao (Asian street food), Mais Alghanim (classic Kuwaiti cuisine), and Vol.1 (for third-wave coffee and niche desserts) are worth considering.

Staycations and Wellness Retreats

Not everyone thrives in crowds. For those looking for a quieter way to enjoy the break, a staycation or wellness retreat may be the answer.
- Luxury Staycations – Resorts such as Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Hilton Kuwait Resort provide a holiday-like experience without having to leave the country. With spa treatments, beachfront views, and full-service amenities, they offer an easy escape.
- Wellness and Spa Retreats – A weekend spent at Talise Spa or one of Kuwait's growing wellness centers can be just as rejuvenating as an international trip.

Hit the Desert

With February's cooler weather, the extended break is an ideal time for a desert getaway.
- Camping Under the Stars – The Mutla Ridge and Al Salmi Desert are among Kuwait's best camping spots. Setting up a bonfire and watching the night sky away from the city lights is an experience unlike any other.
- Dune Bashing and Quad Biking – For those who prefer action, renting an ATV or heading out for some off-roading in the sand dunes offers a more adventurous way to spend the holiday.
- Desert Barbecues – For a lower-commitment option, heading to the desert for a grill session with friends or family is an easy but rewarding way to take advantage of the holiday.

Five-day holidays don't come often, and whether it's through celebrating, traveling, or simply unwinding, this stretch of time is an opportunity to step outside the routine. National Day and Liberation Day are as much about remembering history as they are about appreciating the present. However one chooses to spend it, the key is to make it count—because come Sunday, March 2, everything goes back to normal.