Sheikh of Kuwait Net Worth
Net Worth: $600 Million
Category: Richest Politicians › Sheikhs
Birthdate: June 16, 1929 – September 29, 2020 (91 years old)
Birthplace: Kuwait City
Gender: Male
Profession: Politician
Nationality: Kuwaiti
Net Worth and Leadership
Sabah IV Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait, had an estimated net worth of $600 million at the time of his passing. In addition to his role as Emir, he served as the Commander of the Kuwaiti Military and led the Sabah monarchy. Sabah passed away on September 29, 2020, at the age of 91. After suffering a debilitating stroke in 2019, he spent the last year of his life largely incapacitated. His half-brother, Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, succeeded him.
Early Life and Education
Born on June 16, 1929, in Al Jahra, then part of the Sheikhdom of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah was the fourth son of Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Munira Othman Hamad Al-Ayyar Al-Saeed. He began his education at Al Mubarakya School before completing his primary studies under private tutors.
Political Career Beginnings
Sheikh Sabah entered government service in 1963, becoming Kuwait’s foreign minister. He held the position for 40 years, making him the longest-serving foreign minister globally. Additionally, he served as Kuwait’s first deputy prime minister and acted as the minister of finance from 1965 to 1967. In 2003, he was appointed Prime Minister of Kuwait by then-Emir Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, replacing Crown Prince Sheikh Saad Al-Salim Al-Sabah.
Ascension to Emir
In January 2006, the passing of Emir Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah led to Crown Prince Sheikh Saad becoming Emir. However, due to his severe illness, including dementia, Sheikh Saad was unable to fulfill his duties and subsequently abdicated. Sheikh Sabah was sworn in as Emir on January 29, 2006, with the approval of the National Assembly. During his reign, Sheikh Sabah played a pivotal role in Kuwait’s politics, including dissolving the National Assembly twice during periods of governmental unrest. Internationally, he acted as a mediator in regional and global conflicts, including the 2017 Qatar diplomatic crisis.
Humanitarian Efforts
As Emir, Sheikh Sabah championed numerous humanitarian causes. He provided significant support to Syrian refugees, disaster relief initiatives, and global health efforts. His contributions earned him a humanitarian award in 2014 from then-UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, and he was praised by former US President Jimmy Carter as a “global humanitarian leader.”
Controversies and Jailing of Critics
Despite his humanitarian image, Sheikh Sabah faced criticism for suppressing dissent. His administration jailed critics, including protestors, journalists, and members of parliament. Notable cases included Ayad Al-Hirbi, who was imprisoned for tweeting criticism of the Kuwaiti government, and opposition leader Musallam Al-Barrak, who was jailed along with others for allegedly insulting the Emir.
Personal Life and Passing
Sheikh Sabah was married to Sheikha Fatuwah Salman Al-Sabah, who passed away in 1990. They had four children: Sheikhs Nasser, Hamad, and Ahmed, and Sheikha Salwa. Following an extended stay at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, he passed away on September 29, 2020. He was buried at Sulaibikhat Cemetery, and his half-brother Sheikh Nawaf succeeded him as Emir of Kuwait.
