In a historic event for the Gulf region, the Vatican has officially elevated the Church of Our Lady of Arabia in Ahmadi, southern Kuwait, to the rank of a minor basilica—a designation granted to select churches that hold special status within the Catholic Church. This makes it the first of its kind in the Gulf to receive such recognition.
This elevation carries profound spiritual and symbolic meaning. A minor basilica is a title conferred by papal decree to churches distinguished by their historical, architectural, or spiritual significance, acknowledging their role and importance within their communities.
With this designation, the church becomes directly affiliated with the Holy See (the Vatican) and symbolizes spiritual “motherhood” for the local community. It is now entitled to display Vatican insignia, such as the crossed keys and papal tiara, on its emblems.
Additionally, the church becomes a destination for Catholic pilgrims and is granted spiritual privileges, including special indulgences. It is now listed among the world’s most significant Catholic churches.
The church’s origins date back to 1948, when it began as a small hut that served as a power station before being converted into a temporary chapel. A year later, it began to feature religious statues and symbols, including that of “Our Lady of Arabia.”
The Vatican had previously announced, through Decree No. 18/25 issued on June 28, 2025, the elevation of the Church of Our Lady of Arabia—Ahmadi, Kuwait, to the status of minor basilica, with all associated liturgical rights and privileges, in response to a request by Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia.
Bishop Berardi expressed his gratitude, saying, “This papal honor is a source of pride for all Christians—citizens and residents—in Kuwait and reflects deep appreciation for religious freedom and interfaith dialogue in the country.”
On the occasion of this notable ecclesiastical recognition, Father Suleiman Haifawi, representative of the Catholic Church in Kuwait, stated that the papal decision “marks a shining milestone in the church’s journey in Kuwait and sends a global message of appreciation for the country’s unique model of tolerance and coexistence among religions.”
He affirmed that this papal honor is a historic event that places Kuwait on the global map of significant churches and reflects the Catholic Church’s appreciation for Kuwait’s role in promoting freedom of worship and values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.