Monday, December 16, 2024, marked the first anniversary of His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah’s proclamation as the Amir of Kuwait. Following the passing of the late Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Sheikh Meshal was appointed Amir in accordance with the Constitution and Article 4 of the Succession Law. He formally took the constitutional oath on December 20, 2023, becoming Kuwait’s 17th Amir.
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
Born in 1940, Sheikh Meshal is the seventh son of the late Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s 10th ruler. His early education was shaped by his family, with his parents and senior relatives guiding him through basic reading and writing before attending Al-Mubarakiya School, Kuwait’s first school. He later pursued his studies in the United Kingdom, graduating from Hendon Police College in 1960. Upon his return to Kuwait, he joined the Ministry of the Interior and rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a key figure in Kuwait’s security infrastructure. His leadership continued to grow, culminating in his appointment as Deputy Chief of the National Guard in 2004, before becoming Crown Prince in 2020. On December 16, 2023, he succeeded Sheikh Nawaf as Amir.
Key Achievements and Leadership
Over the past year, Sheikh Meshal’s leadership has focused on domestic development, regional cooperation, and international diplomacy. In May 2024, he made the historic decision to dissolve parliament and temporarily suspend certain constitutional articles to reassess the country’s democratic process. Locally, he inaugurated the Abdullah Al-Salem University and Sabah Al-Salem University City, while attending various award ceremonies, including the KFAS awards.
Regionally, Sheikh Meshal has worked to strengthen ties with neighboring countries, including official visits to Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE. Under his leadership, Kuwait hosted the 45th GCC Summit on December 1, 2024, promoting Gulf unity and addressing regional challenges. His advocacy for the Palestinian cause and commitment to Arab sovereignty are central to his foreign policy.
Internationally, Sheikh Meshal has furthered Kuwait’s global presence through visits to Turkey, where he signed six agreements, and meetings with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and European Council President Charles Michel. These efforts highlight his dedication to peaceful resolutions and international cooperation.
As Kuwait celebrates His Highness Sheikh Meshal’s first anniversary as Amir, the nation continues to flourish, with his leadership ensuring the country’s growth and prosperity both regionally and internationally. His stewardship builds on the legacy of Kuwait’s past rulers while shaping a brighter future for the people of Kuwait.
