Modern parliamentary life in Kuwait began on June 19, 1961 with the elections to the Constituent Assembly. This was followed by the first session of the National Assembly held on January 29, 1963.

The total strength of the Kuwaiti National Assembly is 50. The members are elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage and secret ballot. The legislative term is divided into annual sessions which are of no less than eight months' duration; the legislative term may be extended by law in times of war or may be shortened if the Assembly is dissolved by a decree. In such an eventuality general elections will have to be held within two months from the date of dissolution.

Each of Kuwait's 25 constituencies elects two members to the Assembly. Only Kuwaiti males who are 21 years of age have the right to vote. Candidates for the National Assembly must be Kuwaiti nationals and not under 30 years of age.The Assembly's sessions are only valid when more than half of the total number of members are present. Every member has the right to initiate bills. The bill passed by the National Assembly becomes law after it is sanctioned by the Amir, and promulgated and published in the official gazette.

The National Assembly's financial responsibilities include approval of the state budget and final accounts. The Assembly also supervises executive power through deferment means, like submitting questions, initiating discussions, and setting up commissions of inquiry. Such supervision can lead to a vote of no-confidence against a minister and result in his resignation. A vote of no-confidence against the Prime Minister is not allowed, but the Assembly has the right of deciding not to cooperate with the Prime Minister. In such a case, the issue is taken to the Amir, who may either relieve the Prime Minister of office and appoint a new Cabinet or dissolve the Assembly and hold fresh elections.