In recent months, the emir has been hospitalized several times, raising concerns about his health.
Sabah began to rule in oil-rich Kuwait in 2006.
Although Kuwait has one of the most active parliaments in the Arab world, most of the political power, including the appointment of a government, lies with the Emir.
An important feature of Sabah’s reign was the efforts to resolve regional conflicts.
The Emir continued to maintain good relations with Iran, although several Gulf monarchies have treated Tehran as a rival. He also maintained ties with Qatar when other countries in the region broke ties with it in 2017.
Crown Prince Navafs al-Ahmed al-Jabers as Sabah will become the new emir of Kuwait after the death of his eldest half-brother, the state cabinet has announced.
Navaf was appointed Crown Prince in 2006 shortly after Sabah came to power.
The Cabinet has also declared 40 days of mourning in the country, although state institutions will be closed for only three days.
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