How annual leave pay is calculated in Kuwait
Kuwait counts 30 working days (weekends and public holidays are not deducted) and calculates the daily rate on 26 working days a month, so a month's leave is worth more than a month's salary. Unused leave is encashed on termination; up to two years can be accumulated.
Worked example
KWD 800 per month, 18-day balance: 800 ÷ 26 = 30.77 per day × 18 = KWD 553.85.
Annual leave across the GCC
| Country | Entitlement | Pay basis |
|---|---|---|
| UAE | 30 calendar days per year after one year of service (2 days per month between 6 and 12 months) | Basic (encashment) |
| Qatar | 3 weeks (21 days) per year for under 5 years' service; 4 weeks (28 days) after 5 years | Basic (encashment) |
| Saudi Arabia | 21 days per year, rising to 30 days after 5 consecutive years | Full wage |
| Oman | 30 days per year after six months' service | Full wage |
| Bahrain | 30 days per year after one year (2.5 days per month) | Full wage |
| Kuwait | 30 working days per year after nine months' service | Full wage |
Frequently asked questions
How many days of annual leave am I entitled to in Kuwait?
30 working days per year after nine months' service. Legal basis: Law 6/2010, Art. 70–72.
How is leave salary calculated in Kuwait?
Daily rate = monthly remuneration ÷ 26; leave pay = daily rate × leave days. Example: KWD 800 and 18 days → KWD 553.85.
Is leave salary based on basic or full salary in Kuwait?
On the full wage — basic plus regular allowances — not basic alone.
Can I encash my annual leave instead of taking it?
Only by agreement with the employer and within the limits of the law; employers cannot force you to encash the statutory minimum. All accrued, untaken leave must be paid out when employment ends.
Do public holidays and weekends count as leave days?
No. Kuwait counts working days, so weekends and public holidays falling within your leave are not deducted.
How is leave accrued for part of a year?
Pro-rata: entitlement × (months worked ÷ 12). After 9 months of service you can start taking leave; before that it accrues but may not be taken.
What happens to my leave balance when I resign?
It is paid out in your final settlement at the applicable daily rate, together with your gratuity and notice-period pay.