The emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, passed away earlier on Tuesday aged 91.

He had ruled Kuwait since 2006.

During the call, the king said: “We have lost a dear brother and a leader who devoted his life to the service of his homeland, Arab and Islamic nation and the human community,.”

The king said he gained a distinguished position and was highly appreciated by world leaders and people.

“We offer our condolences to all the people of the Gulf and the Arab and Islamic nations,” adding that “he passed away after a career full of achievement and giving.”

He added, “He passed away after a journey full of achievement and generosity. We ask God to bestow his mercy and forgiveness and to dwell in his spaciousness in paradise.”

Later on Tuesday, King Salman tweeted: “With the departure of Kuwait’s emir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, I lost a dear brother, a generous friend with great stature. He is highly regarded and deserves all the appreciation.”

He added: “We miss him as much as his people miss him, and history will immortalize him as he devoted his life to the service of his country and the Arab and Islamic nations.

“Our condolences to our people of Kuwait.”

King Salman also congratulated Sheikh Nawaf on assuming the reins of emir Kuwait and said that the Kingdom stands with Kuwait, wishing the country more security, prosperity and stability.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also offered his condolences to Sheikh Nawaf in a separate call on Tuesday.

Sheikh Nawaf expressed his thanks and appreciation to King Salman and the crown prince for their “sincere fraternal feelings.”