How overtime is calculated in Kuwait
Hourly = remuneration ÷ 26 ÷ 8 (48-hour week). Overtime is capped at 2 hours a day, 180 hours a year and 90 days a year. Rest-day and holiday work also earn a compensatory day off.
Worked example
KWD 600: hourly = 600 ÷ 26 ÷ 8 = 2.88. Ten hours of weekday overtime (125%) = 10 × 2.88 × 1.25 = KWD 36.06.
Overtime rates across the GCC
| Country | Weekday | Night | Rest day / holiday | Hourly basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | 125% | 150% | 150% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Qatar | 125% | 150% | 150% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Saudi Arabia | 150% | 150% | 150% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Oman | 125% | 150% | 200% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 9 |
| Bahrain | 125% | 150% | 150% | full ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Kuwait | 125% | — | 150% / 200% | full ÷ 26 ÷ 8 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the overtime rate in Kuwait?
Weekday overtime (125%); Weekly rest day (150%); Public holiday (200%). Legal basis: Law 6/2010, Art. 66–68.
How do I calculate my hourly rate for overtime in Kuwait?
Monthly remuneration ÷ 26 days ÷ 8 hours. Example: KWD 600 → KWD 2.88 per hour; one weekday overtime hour = KWD 3.61.
Is overtime calculated on basic or gross salary in Kuwait?
On the full wage including regular allowances.
Is there a limit on overtime hours in Kuwait?
Yes — normally 2 hours a day. See the notes above for annual limits and exceptions.
Can my employer give time off instead of overtime pay?
For work on the weekly rest day most GCC laws allow a substitute day off (sometimes plus a premium). For ordinary weekday overtime the law requires payment; time-off-in-lieu arrangements need your agreement.
Are managers entitled to overtime?
Most GCC labour laws allow employers to exclude senior managerial or supervisory staff from working-hours provisions by contract or ministerial decision. Check your contract and job classification.
Is overtime pay subject to tax or social insurance?
There is no personal income tax in the GCC. For nationals, overtime is generally excluded from the pensionable wage used for GOSI/PASI/GRSIA contributions.