Annual Leave and Public Holidays in Kuwait
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Kuwaiti national legislation, Amiri decrees, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Kuwait grants generous leave entitlements compared to many Gulf neighbours:
- 30 working days of paid annual leave after completing 1 year of service.
- Workers with 9 months but less than 1 year get proportional leave.
- Leave cannot be carried over for more than 2 years unless the employer agrees.
- Kuwait observes approximately 13 official public holidays per year — National Day (25 Feb), Liberation Day (26 Feb), Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Islamic New Year, Prophet's Birthday, and Isra and Mi'raj.
- Working on a public holiday earns 150% pay plus a compensatory day off.
- Unused leave at termination must be cashed out — your employer cannot deny this.
When does it apply?
- You are employed in the private sector in Kuwait with at least 9 months of service.
- You want to take your annual leave or are required to work on a public holiday.
What to Do If Your Employer Denies Your Annual Leave in Kuwait
- Submit your leave request to your employer in writing.
- Plan leave in advance — your employer can schedule when you take it, but cannot deny the full 30 days.
- If you leave your job with unused leave days, you are entitled to cash compensation for them.
- Keep track of your leave balance — your employer must maintain records.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not let your leave accumulate beyond 2 years without a written agreement — you could lose it.
- Do not accept being forced to work during leave without overtime compensation.
- Do not resign during your leave period if you want to receive full leave pay — clarify timing with your employer.
Common Questions
When does it apply — annual leave and public holidays?
You are employed in the private sector in Kuwait with at least 9 months of service.You want to take your annual leave or are required to work on a public holiday.
What should I do if my employer is refusing to give me my annual leave in Kuwait?
Submit your leave request to your employer in writing.Plan leave in advance — your employer can schedule when you take it, but cannot deny the full 30 days.If you leave your job with unused leave days, you are entitled to cash compensation for them.Keep track of your leave balance — your employer must maintain records.
What should you NOT do — annual leave and public holidays?
Do not let your leave accumulate beyond 2 years without a written agreement — you could lose it.Do not accept being forced to work during leave without overtime compensation.Do not resign during your leave period if you want to receive full leave pay — clarify timing with your employer.