National Anthems of the World

Lyrics, history and anecdotes

🇰🇼 Kuwait

The national anthem of Kuwait is called: « Al-Nasheed Al-Watani ».

Continent: Asia

Bordering Countries:
🇮🇶 Iraq
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia

History of « Al-Nasheed Al-Watani »

« Al-Nasheed Al-Watani » (The National Anthem) is the national anthem of Kuwait. The anthem reflects the country’s pride in its sovereignty, cultural heritage, and the unity of its people.

Key Dates and People

  • 1978: The lyrics of « Al-Nasheed Al-Watani » were written by Ahmad Meshari Al-Adwani, a Kuwaiti poet. The music was composed by Ibrahim Al-Soula, a Kuwaiti composer, and arranged by Ahmad Ali.
  • 1978: The anthem was officially adopted on February 25, 1978, coinciding with Kuwait’s National Day celebrations. It replaced the previous anthem, « Amiri Salute, » which was used from 1951 to 1978.

Anecdotes

  • National Day: The adoption of « Al-Nasheed Al-Watani » in 1978 was timed to coincide with Kuwait’s National Day, which celebrates the country’s independence from British protection in 1961. The new anthem was part of a broader effort to foster national pride and unity.
  • Cultural Reflection: The lyrics of the anthem emphasize themes of patriotism, loyalty, and the beauty of the Kuwaiti land. It reflects the deep connection of the Kuwaiti people to their country and their pride in its achievements.
  • Cultural Significance: « Al-Nasheed Al-Watani » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Kuwaiti people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Kuwaitis.

Lyrics Excerpt

In Arabic

وَطَنِي الكُوَيْتُ سَلِمْتَ لِلْمَجْدِ
وَعَلَى جَبِينِكَ طَالِعُ السَّعْدِ
وَطَنِي الكُوَيْتُ وَطَنِي الكُوَيْتُ
وَطَنِي الكُوَيْتُ سَلِمْتَ لِلْمَجْدِ

يَعْتَزُّ فِيكَ الطُّبْعُ يَا بَلَدِي
وَحِمَاكِ اللهُ شَرْعِي وَالْوَطَنُ
وَطَنِي الكُوَيْتُ وَطَنِي الكُوَيْتُ
وَطَنِي الكُوَيْتُ سَلِمْتَ لِلْمَجْدِ

In English (translation)

My homeland, Kuwait, may you be safe and glorious!
May you always enjoy good fortune!
My homeland, Kuwait, my homeland, Kuwait,
My homeland, Kuwait, may you be safe and glorious!

You are the cradle of my ancestors,
Who put down its memory.
With everlasting symmetry, showing all eternity,
Those Arabs were heavenly, Kuwait,
My country, may you be safe and glorious.

Sources: