The Kuwaiti government, through the Civil Service Commission (CSC), has officially declared the Kuwait Isra holiday for the year 2026. According to the official circular issued on January 5, work across all ministries, government agencies, and public institutions will be suspended on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in observance of Isra and Mi’raj (the Prophet’s Night Journey and Ascension). This decision provides a three-day weekend for public sector employees, as the religious occasion falls on Friday, January 16, with Sunday serving as the compensatory day off.
CSC Kuwait Holiday Announcement and Work Schedule
The Civil Service Commission confirmed that regular working hours for the public sector will resume on Monday, January 19, 2026. The Kuwait Isra holiday applies to:
- All Government Ministries
- Public Authorities and State Institutions
- Municipal Departments
However, agencies with a “special work nature” (such as emergency services and hospitals) will have their holiday schedules determined by their respective managements to ensure the public interest is maintained.
Religious and Cultural Significance of Isra and Mi’raj
The Kuwait Isra holiday commemorates one of the most significant events in Islamic history—the journey of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Jerusalem and his subsequent ascension to the heavens. Observed on the 27th of Rajab (1447 AH), this occasion is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and community gatherings. In Kuwait, mosques across the country host special sermons and religious lectures to educate the youth about the lessons of faith and perseverance derived from this miraculous journey.
Impact on the Private Sector and Community
While the CSC mandate directly covers the public sector, most private companies in Kuwait align their holiday calendars with the government. Families often use the Kuwait Isra holiday to travel locally, visit relatives, or participate in religious activities. With the holiday creating a long weekend, retail and hospitality sectors in Kuwait City and Salmiya are expecting a surge in activity as residents take advantage of the break.
Looking Ahead: Kuwait’s 2026 Public Holiday Calendar
The January 18 break is part of a busy holiday month for Kuwait, following the New Year’s holiday. As the country moves further into 2026, the next major public holidays will be the National and Liberation Days in late February.
Authorities advise residents to stay updated with official KUNA (Kuwait News Agency) reports for any further changes to the holiday schedule. For now, the Kuwait Isra holiday serves as a welcome moment of rest and spiritual devotion for the entire nation.
