Kuwaiti society is one of the most diverse Arab communities, comprising a blend of various tribes and families. It is home to some of the largest and oldest Arab tribes known since ancient times, representing 65% of the Kuwaiti population. People from these tribes take great pride in their heritage, with many contributing distinguished scholars, jurists, and influential figures to the Arab world.
What Are the Key Tribes of Kuwait?
The number of tribes in Kuwait in 2024 is not precisely fixed, as the community includes many Arab tribes with different origins. The number of tribes is estimated to be in the dozens, with some of the most well-known being:
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Al-Awazem
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Mutair
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Anza
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Shammar
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Ajman
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Dhafir
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Rashaida
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Al-‘Adwan
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Al-Dawasir
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Al-Hawajer
The Largest Tribes of Kuwait in Order
Kuwait is home to 19 tribes, each varying in terms of name, lineage, and population. Here, we will take you on a journey to explore these tribes face-to-face.
Al-Awazem Tribe:
Al-Awazem is the largest tribe in Kuwait. This ancient Arab tribe is known for its generosity and hospitality, traits inherited from their ancestors. It has branches across various countries, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. Al-Awazem cannot be confined to one geographic area as they span several Arab nations. The tribe represents 15% of Kuwait’s population and holds significant influence in the Kuwaiti National Assembly. The tribe’s name is derived from the Arabic word “Aazim,” meaning honor, pride, and nobility. They follow the Sunni sect of Islam.
Mutair Tribe:
Mutair is one of the largest and most historic tribes in Kuwait, with a history stretching back to around 1500 years ago, during the pre-Islamic period. The tribe, originally from the Najd and Hejaz regions, migrated through the Al-Samman Plateau to Kuwait. Mutair belongs to the Adnanite group, with roots tracing back to Ghatafan bin Saad bin Qais ‘Ailan bin Mudar bin Nizar bin Ma’ad bin Adnan. The tribe’s name derives from “Matar,” meaning heavy rainfall, which is symbolic of the generosity of its members. Mutair has three main divisions: Al-Bariyyah, Al-‘Alawi, and Bani Abdullah. The tribe is known for its traditional lifestyle, particularly in camel and horse breeding.
Ajman Tribe:
Ajman is one of the most prominent tribes in the Arabian Gulf, with around 30,000 members in Kuwait alone, with many others spread across Saudi Arabia. The tribe’s name is thought to originate from the speech impediment of their ancestor Ali bin Hisham, who was called “Ajim.” They follow the Sunni sect of Islam and are part of the Hamdan tribes, historically known as Yamm. Ajman has a large presence in Kuwait but is also spread across the Arabian Peninsula.
Rashaida Tribe:
The Rashaida tribe has a history dating back to 1908 and is one of Kuwait’s original tribes. Named after Rashid bin Sharoul, their ancestors trace their lineage to Banu Abs from Adnan. The tribe is known for its generosity, courage, and strong cultural identity. Although the exact size of the tribe is unclear, it is estimated that they number in the tens of thousands, spread across urban, rural, and desert areas in Kuwait.
Anza Tribe:
The Anza tribe originally comes from Najd and northern Hejaz but later spread to Libya, Turkey, and other countries. It is one of the largest Arab tribes in the Levant, Iraq, and the Arabian Gulf. The tribe traces its roots back to Anza bin Asad bin Rabi’ah bin Nizar bin Ma’ad bin Adnan. Anza is part of the Adnanite group and is one of the oldest tribes in the Arabian Peninsula. The tribe’s geographic spread makes it difficult to pinpoint their exact area in Kuwait.
Al-Tawahir Tribe:
The Al-Tawahir tribe is one of the ancient Arab tribes living in Kuwait, primarily in regions like Al-Wafra, Al-Qadsiyah, Ahmadi, and Farwaniya. The tribe’s name is derived from “Al-Tawir,” which refers to the act of flying or soaring, a name said to have originated from a legendary member who would speak so loudly and passionately that it seemed as if he was soaring in the sky. They are known for their hospitality, honor, and courage.
Utaybah Tribe:
The Utaybah tribe is one of the most renowned and prestigious Arab tribes, with roots traced to the descendants of Ismail, the son of Ibrahim (peace be upon them). Utaybah has a strong presence in Kuwait and the Arabian Gulf, known for its courageous and proud members. The tribe occupies vast stretches of land across Kuwait and is part of the larger Adnanite group.
Shammar Tribe:
Shammar is an ancient tribe that originated in Najd before spreading across Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE. Its roots trace back to the tribe of Tay’ that once lived in Hail. Shammar’s members are spread across Kuwait, and while the tribe doesn’t have a defined geographical area, they are particularly known in the Jahra area of Kuwait.
Al-Dawasir Tribe:
The Al-Dawasir tribe is one of the Gulf’s major tribes, with deep historical roots that go back before Islam. The tribe is spread across several countries, including Kuwait. The Al-Dawasir tribe is known for its agricultural and commercial activities, with members traditionally relying on these professions. They have expanded into industry and technology and are now involved in investment and other sectors. The tribe plays a central role in Kuwait’s political and social life.
Al-Dhafir Tribe:
The Al-Dhafir tribe, originally from Najd and Hejaz, has a significant history, and its members have been influential in shaping Kuwait’s cultural and social landscape. They spread across various regions in Kuwait, contributing greatly to the fabric of Kuwaiti society.
Banu Hajar Tribe:
Banu Hajar is a notable tribe in Kuwait, originating from the Arabian Peninsula. Its members are distributed across various regions in Kuwait and the Gulf. Known for their strong cultural ties and community, Banu Hajar is influential in many aspects of Kuwaiti life.
Harb Tribe:
Harb tribe hails from the ancient Qahatan tribes of Yemen and later migrated to the Arabian Peninsula. Historically, the tribe has been one of Kuwait’s most powerful, playing a pivotal role in many historical conflicts and shaping the country’s destiny. Though the exact size of the tribe is unclear, Harb has been an influential tribe in Kuwait.
Banu Abs Tribe:
Banu Abs is one of the largest and most prominent tribes in Kuwait, with roots tracing back to southern Arabia. Historically, they spread to various parts of the Gulf region and became known for their cultural richness, hospitality, and deep respect for their traditions. Their contributions to Kuwait are significant, particularly in agriculture and livestock rearing.
