This celebration forms part of a landmark year in UK–Kuwait relations: the 250th Anniversary of Official Trading Relations, underpinned by strong cooperation in trade, investment, defence, and culture. Our diplomatic relations also reached new heights this year, and with a series of high-level visits and meetings: His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah meeting His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales at Windsor in September and discussions with the Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP, the UK Prime Minister in October. The former Foreign Secretary visited Kuwait for the UK–Kuwait Strategic Dialogue with counterpart, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Also in October, Sir Chris Bryant, MP, Minister for Trade, attended the GCC Trade Ministers’ Summit in Kuwait, underscoring the UK’s growing trade and investment partnerships with the GCC, and with Kuwait as a strategic partner.

The UK also hosted the 22nd UK–Kuwait Joint Steering Group, co-chaired by The Rt Hon Hamish Falconer MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, and His Excellency Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. The meeting reaffirmed strong bilateral ties and agreed on actions to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, defence, and regional security. Two Memoranda of Understanding were signed—one on healthcare collaboration and another on hydrographic surveying—strengthening health systems, training, and maritime security.

A wide range of dignitaries from the Government of the State of Kuwait, prominent leaders, and eminent personalities from various fields attended the King’s Birthday Party. The event showcased the best of British cuisine and featured musical performances celebrating popular British music.

This year’s celebration was made possible through the generous support of Huectech, Al-Tijari (CBK), Jazeera, Zayani, Airbus, HSBC, Rolls-Royce, IHG (Crowne Plaza), Alghanim Industries (Costa), Pret A Manger, Santa Nata, and MMI Diplomatic.

His Excellency Qudsi Rasheed OBE, British Ambassador (Designate) to the State of Kuwait, said:

“It is a privilege to host this celebration of His Majesty King Charles III’s Birthday here in Kuwait. This occasion not only honours His Majesty’s unwavering dedication to public service and his leadership on global sustainability, but also reflects the deep and historic ties between the United Kingdom and the State of Kuwait.

Our friendship is enriched by the close relationship between our royal and ruling families—His Majesty King Charles III and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah—whose shared commitment to dialogue and cooperation strengthens our nations. From King Charles’s vision for a greener future to the Amir’s leadership in regional stability, these values unite us. Together, we continue to build on a legacy of mutual respect, cultural exchange, and collaboration across trade, education, and security—principles that guide our enduring partnership.”