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Kuwait Through the Years: Key Events on February 9

Kuwait marks several important milestones on this date. These events highlight how the country’s modern institutions evolved. Kuwait’s historical milestones continue to shape its governance and development.

Indeed, in 1960, Kuwait’s ruler signed a decree turning the state budget into law. This strengthened financial governance and laid the groundwork for future planning. Subsequently, in 1975, a new government formed under Crown Prince Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. It marked the eighth cabinet in Kuwait’s history. Notably, the government created separate Housing and Oil portfolios for the first time. This reflected a new era in public administration.

Moreover, in 1982, Kuwait established the Commercial Complexes Company with KD 50 million in capital. Its goal was to manage and lease industrial and commercial complexes. It also supported facilities like restaurants, cafes, and entertainment centers. Therefore, this step reflected Kuwait’s growing focus on economic diversification and infrastructure development. Then, two years later, the ruler signed a decree allowing university students to work in government and public institutions. This opened new opportunities for students from Kuwait University and the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training.

In addition, the Central Bank of Kuwait introduced the KD 20 banknote in 1986. This supported cash circulation and financial stability. Meanwhile, in 2006, Kuwait formed its 22nd government under Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah. The cabinet included 15 ministers. Consequently, this step continued Kuwait’s tradition of structured governance and steady political evolution. Furthermore, in 2008, Jahra Sports Club’s fencing team won first place in the Epee event at the Arab clubs championship. The competition brought together 13 teams from eight Arab countries.

In 2010, Kuwait’s diplomatic role grew when its Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Dr. Abdulrazzaq Al-Nafisi, became chairman of the G77 plus China group. Then, in 2016, the National Assembly approved a law regulating commercial agencies. This ended long-standing monopolies since 1965. That same year, former Kuwait Sports Club footballer and international referee Essa Al-Jassas passed away at 65.

In 2020, the Abdulrazzaq Al-Zazala health center opened in Dasma. It serves up to 25,000 residents. Moreover, the center includes eight clinics covering general medicine, dentistry, chronic diseases, elderly care, and children’s health. It cost KD one million to build. Subsequently, in 2022, the National Assembly passed a draft law amending articles in the preventative and communal disease regulations.

Finally, in 2025, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research announced that Dr. Badria Al-Helaili joined the American Romanian Academy of Arts and Sciences. She became the first Kuwaiti, Gulf, and Arab scientist to gain this recognition. Likewise, that year also saw the Ministry of Health announce that Dr. Turki Al-Otaibi was elected president of the Middle East Regional Board at the International Society of Nephrology.

Overall, these events show how Kuwait’s historical milestones shaped its modern state structure and global presence. Therefore, as the country continues to grow, February 9 remains a reminder of key steps toward progress and development.

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