In Kuwait, government offices and private businesses will close down Wednesday for four days to mark the Emir's silver jubilee and the New Year.
The Kuwaiti cabinet declared Wednesday a public holiday on the occasion of Sheikh Jaber al-Ahmad al-Sabah's 25 years as ruler of the emirate.
The Thursday-Friday weekend follows while Saturday will also be a day of rest to celebrate the advent of the year - 2003.
"The Emir, with his vast wisdom and leadership, has led the people of Kuwait with maximum potential and has been in harmony with the progression of time," Arab Times said, quoting a statement from the Emir's palace.
"He recognized the capabilities of the homeland and provided it with immunity by establishing ties of friendship extending east, west, north and south of the globe," it added. (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
