First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah on Monday chaired the second meeting of a government team tasked with regulating places of worship and religious centers.

According to a press release by the ministry, the meeting followed guidance of Kuwait’s wise leadership directives aimed at aligning religious activities with legal frameworks, consolidating values, and reinforcing Kuwaitآ‘s regional and international standing.

Officials reviewed outcomes from the first meeting and discussed mechanisms for licensing religious institutions, ensuring they serve society while complying with regulations.

The session was attended by Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Mohammed Al-Wasmi, Minister of State for Municipal and Housing Affairs Abdullatif Al-Meshari, Justice Minister Nasser Al-Sumait, Fatwa and Legislation Department Head Salah Al-Majed, and representatives from several government agencies.

  

 

 

 

In every national transformation journey, bricks and mortar alone do not build the future. People do. Kuwait Vision 2035, ‘New Kuwait’, calls for a thriving and sustainable society where human capital is at the center. Infrastructure and policy reforms matter, but they are not enough. What will ultimately shape success are our behaviors, our choices, and our values.

Wellbeing is more than physical health or stress management. It is a national asset. A society that prioritizes balance and resilience is more productive. It spends less on healthcare and builds stronger foundations for innovation. Nations that embed wellbeing into culture, position themselves as competitive and future-ready.

Kuwait’s youth make up more than half of the population. They are not just participants in the national vision. They are its leaders. Youth brings creativity, ambition, and energy. At the same time, they carry forward the values that define Kuwait: solidarity, respect, balance, and perseverance.

Empowering youth to promote wellbeing is a values-driven investment in the future. Young Kuwaitis can lead community campaigns. They can create digital health platforms. They can design school and university initiatives. In doing so, they weave wellbeing into daily life. When anchored in values, these behaviors ripple across generations.

Behavioral science shows the power of small, consistent actions. Walking instead of driving. Managing screen time. Practicing mindfulness. These simple habits, when adopted widely, transform culture.

Policies can reinforce these choices. More public parks encourage active lifestyles. Nutritious food in schools builds healthy routines. Workplace wellness programs and mental health awareness campaigns make wellbeing a shared responsibility. Together, these steps strengthen both individuals and the nation.

A wellbeing culture strengthens the pillars of Vision 2035.

• Creative Human Capital:Youth who are healthy and guided by values are more creative, adaptable, and ready to lead.
  
  • Sustainable Living Environment:Eco-friendly behaviors, such as reducing waste and conserving water, improve both wellbeing and environmental health.
• Effective Government:By integrating wellbeing into policies, institutions model care, accountability, and values-based leadership.

Government programs are essential. For transformation and long-term change, cultural adoption is required. Kuwait once shifted from pearl diving to the oil economy. Today, we can achieve another shift: from reactive healthcare to proactive wellbeing.

Here, values play a central role. Leaders can emphasize balance and care. Educators can encourage healthier habits. Media and influencers can make wellbeing aspirational and accessible. The message is clear. Wellbeing is not a luxury. The wellbeing of our society is a shared responsibility and a national duty.

Vision 2035 is more than a blueprint. It is a call to redefine how we live, work, and connect. With youth and values at the heart of wellbeing, we can shift the discourse around sustainable human development. New Kuwait can use its human development pillar as an example of sustainable society transformation.

The decade ahead calls for intentional steps toward better health, mental fortitude, and communities that thrive together. Vision 2035 charts our course. The collective work of moving forward rests with us, rooted in what we value most and propelled by the vision of our young people.

Editor’s Note: Sarah Al Sabah is Head of Development Planning Follow-Up at Kuwait’s Ministry of Information and a core member of its Strategy Committee (2026–2030). She leads initiatives on future-ready media, youth empowerment, and sustainable transformation in alignment with Vision 2035. In this op‑ed, she explores how wellbeing, values, and youth‑led behavioral change are essential to realizing the New Kuwait.

  

 

 

 

Kuwaiti runner and coach Haya Al-Fares shared her inspiring athletic journey, which has made her a symbol of perseverance and determination. Alongside her career as an engineer, she pursued her passion for running and went on to achieve two Guinness World Records, reported Al Qabas newspaper.

In 2024, Al-Fares set her first record by running a half marathon (21 kilometer) every day for sixty consecutive days. A year later, in 2025, she secured another record for completing the fastest half marathon while carrying weight on her back. She described these milestones as the realization of a lifelong dream, saying she felt both proud and overjoyed when her efforts paid off.

Haya said, “My ambition is to be the Kuwaiti who breaks the most Guinness World Records. I like to set a goal to achieve, and once I reach it, I set a new one. This way, I see life as more beautiful and exciting.”

She added, “My start in sports happened by chance, when I participated in a running event organized by ministries in Kuwait. I won first place, and it was a good beginning. Since then, running has become an integral part of my life.” She later moved on to international races, saying, “I dreamed of something global, and achieving Guinness World Records was the culmination of that ambition.”

Haya emphasized that sports should be an essential part of everyone’s life and should be practiced daily for at least half an hour, or at the very least twice a week.

When asked about the secret to balancing her work and passion for sports, Haya replied, “Time management is everything. Good organization has helped me achieve my accomplishments without affecting my professional responsibilities.”

  

 

 

 

ven minor discrepancies between your passport and application can result in immediate rejection.

Personal details must match exactly with your passport information, including your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number.

NOTE: A single typo in your name or an incorrect digit in your passport number can invalidate your entire application.

Before submitting, verify every field twice and ensure all dates follow the correct format.

Remember that some countries use different date formats, so pay special attention to day-month-year versus month-day-year arrangements.

Mistake 2: Uploading Poor Quality Photos

Your passport photo and document uploads significantly impact your application's success rate.

Blurry, dark, or poorly cropped images often lead to automatic rejections.

The photo requirements for Qatar e-visa are strict and must meet passport standards. Your facial photo should have a plain background, good lighting, and show your face clearly without shadows or reflections.

NOTE: Photos taken with smartphones in poor lighting or at awkward angles are commonly rejected.

For document uploads, ensure your passport's bio-data page is completely visible, with all text readable and corners included in the frame. Scan or photograph documents on a flat surface with adequate lighting to avoid shadows or glare.

Mistake 3: Not Meeting Eligibility Criteria

Many applicants assume they automatically qualify for a Qatar visa without checking the specific eligibility requirements for their nationality.

Citizens from certain countries need additional documentation beyond the standard requirements.

Countries marked with an asterisk on the official list must provide either a valid tourist or business visa from the US, UK, or Schengen Area that has been used at least once, OR a valid permanent residence visa from these regions, OR a valid GCC residence visa effective for at least three months.

NOTE: Nationals from Palestine and Israel cannot apply for Qatar e-visas under current regulations.

GCC citizens (from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and UAE) don't need a visa at all – just a valid national ID card.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Visa Validity Periods

Understanding your visa's validity period is crucial for trip planning and avoiding overstaying penalties.

Most Qatar e-visas remain valid for 30 days from your arrival date, regardless of whether you choose the Tourist, GCC Resident, or ETA Authorization type. However, the Transit e-visa is only effective for 4 days (96 hours).

NOTE: This validity period starts from when you enter Qatar, not when your visa is approved. Overstaying your visa can result in hefty fines, deportation, and potential bans from future Qatar visits.

Plan your trip duration carefully and consider applying for an extension if needed before your original visa expires.

Mistake 5: Submitting Applications Too Late

Poor timing can create unnecessary stress and potentially ruin travel plans, especially during peak seasons or when dealing with processing delays.

While Qatar e-visa processing typically takes 1-3 business days, smart travelers apply well in advance. Submit your application at least one week before your intended travel date to account for potential delays or the need to resubmit corrected information.

NOTE: Processing times may extend during busy periods like major events in Qatar or holiday seasons.

Last-minute applications leave no room for error correction if issues arise, potentially forcing you to cancel or postpone your trip.

Planning Your Perfect Qatar Visit

Avoiding these common mistakes ensures your Qatar e-visa application process remains as smooth and efficient as intended.

The electronic system truly simplifies travel to Qatar when used correctly, opening doors to experience this fascinating country's rich culture, modern attractions, and warm hospitality.

Take time to review all requirements carefully, prepare high-quality documents, and submit your application with plenty of buffer time.

With proper preparation, you'll soon be exploring Qatar's impressive skyline, traditional souqs, and world-class attractions with complete peace of mind.

  

 

 

The total lunar eclipse will be clearly visible across Kuwait, where the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has called on imams and preachers to perform the eclipse prayer at 8 p.m. today.

A total lunar eclipse will be visible to the naked eye on Sunday evening across Kuwait, other Arab countries, much of Asia, Australia, and central and eastern parts of Europe and Africa, Al Qabas newspaper reported.

The celestial event will last about five hours and 27 minutes in total, with the full eclipse phase continuing for one hour and 22 minutes.

In Kuwait, the phenomenon will begin as the moon enters the penumbra at 6:28 p.m., reaching its peak at 9:11 p.m., before concluding at 11:55 p.m.

The moon turns red as it passes into Earth’s shadow, which blocks direct sunlight and causes it to gradually lose its white glow.
“The only sunlight that reaches it is reflected and scattered by Earth’s atmosphere,” explained Ryan Milligan, an astrophysicist at the University of Belfast.

The spectacle will be clearly visible across Kuwait, where the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has called on imams and preachers to perform the eclipse prayer at 8 p.m. today.

A total lunar eclipse also provides scientists with a valuable opportunity to study Earth’s atmosphere. The color and brightness of the moon during the eclipse allow researchers to gather precise data on stratospheric components such as aerosols, gases, and volcanic ash.

Studies have shown that the lunar surface cools rapidly during a total eclipse, dropping by more than 100 degrees Celsius in less than an hour. This helps scientists examine the surface’s thermal properties and gain a deeper understanding of the composition of soil and rocks.

  

 

 

 

The Kuwaiti Cabinet announced that the “Sahel” application has become the country’s most widely used government digital platform, with over 9.2 million users completing more than 110 million transactions across services provided by more than 40 government entities.

The announcement came during the weekly Cabinet meeting chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah at Bayan Palace, reports Al-Rai daily.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Cabinet Affairs Shereeda Abdullah Al-Mousherji said the ministers reviewed a visual presentation by Minister of State for Communication Affairs Omar Al-Omar and the Sahel executive committee on the app’s achievements and future plans to expand integrated e-services.

The Cabinet also discussed several other key matters, including the withdrawal of licenses for 50 industrial, service, and craft plots in Shuwaikh Industrial Area over serious violations, with Minister of Commerce and Industry Khalifa Al-Ojail confirming continued legal action against violators.

In addition, the ministers approved bills related to a unified GCC land transport system and cooperation projects with friendly countries in financial and economic fields. They also reviewed the Capital Markets Authority’s 14th annual report and the fifth annual report of the Insurance Regulatory Unit.

The Cabinet further approved private sector donations, including contributions from oil companies, to support agricultural development along Kuwait’s highways.

  

 

 

 

Moving out of your house or apartment in Kuwait? You’ll need to cancel your electricity connection with the Ministry of Electricity, Water & Renewable Energy (MEW) and claim your security deposit refund. This individuals-only guide explains the exact steps, required documents, the mandatory branch visit, refund timelines, and a branch directory with Google Maps links so you can finish everything in one go.

When you register an electricity connection in Kuwait, MEW takes a refundable security deposit (commonly around KD 125). It’s returned after you cancel the connection and clear all dues.

Required documents (Individuals)

• Insurance refund papers (provided by MEW counter)
• Insurance receipt (if lost, request a replacement at the Enquiry/Replacement Counter)
• Enquiry sheet (issued by the counter)
• Clearance paper (counter)
• Final invoice (from counter or online portal)
• Civil ID (original + copy)
• Original IBAN bank letter (stamped & signed by your bank, in your name)

Step-by-step process (Individuals)

1) Apply online

• Open the MEW e-Services Portal.
• Go to: Services → Customers → Meter Services → Insurance Refund.
• Log in or create an account, enter Civil ID & account details, upload Civil ID copy + IBAN letter.

2) Submit meter reading

MEW will ask for the latest reading. Upload a clear photo and enter the reading via portal/app.

3) Pay final invoice

After your reading is processed, MEW issues the final invoice (may include municipality charges). Pay online via K-Net and upload proof if requested.

4) Download clearance papers

• No-Dues Clearance Certificate
• Final Invoice (zero balance)
• Refund confirmation paperwork

5) Mandatory branch visit (one time)

Even after completing the online steps, you must visit your nearest MEW branch once to submit your original IBAN letter, show your Civil ID (original) and, if available, the deposit receipt. Without this counter verification, your refund remains pending.

6) Refund processing

After verification, your MEW online wallet shows the refund as a negative balance (e.g., –KD 125). Within 2–6 weeks, the amount is transferred to your bank account.

Typical timeline (realistic)

• Days 1–2: Submit online application
• Day 3: Upload meter reading
• Day 4: Final invoice issued & paid
• Day 5: Clearance certificate issued; connection disconnected
• Days 6–7: One-time branch visit for document verification
• Weeks 4–6: Deposit credited to bank

Working hours

• General: Sunday–Thursday, 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
• Ramadan (tentative): typically 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM or 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM (final slot depends on the Civil Service Commission circular for that year).

MEW Customer Support

Hotline: 25371000  •  Email: info@mew.gov.kw

MEW Branch Directory (with Google Maps & contacts)

Unless otherwise noted, branches follow the general timing above; Ramadan hours are shortened as listed in the Ramadan note.

Al-Ahmadi Governorate

• Al-Ahmadi Branch — Block 8, 300 St., Al-Ahmadi. Phone: 25371000. Google Maps
• Jaber Al-Ali (PACI Unit) — Block 8, St 103, Jaber Al-Ali. Phone: 23840452. Google Maps
• Jaber Al-Ali Branch — Block 6, St 17, Jaber Al-Ali. Phone: 153. Google Maps
• Abu Halifa Branch — Block 2, 18 St. Phone: 23723151. Google Maps
• Fahaheel Branch — Block 5, St 1, Fahaheel. Phone: 23910296. Google Maps
• Umm Al-Hayman Branch — Block 9, Road 105. Phone: 153. Google Maps

Capital (Al-Asimah) Governorate

• Shuhada – Ministries HQ — Ministries Zone, South Surra. Phone: 25371000. Google Maps
• Abdullah Al-Salem Branch — Block 3, Sana’a St. Phone: 22560504. Google Maps
• Dasma Branch — Block 1, Al-Kufah St. Phone: 22530845. Google Maps
• Kaifan Branch — Block 1, Fahad Barrak Al-Sabeeh St. Phone: 24833489. Google Maps
• Qibla (Liberation Tower Office) — Abdul Aziz Hamad Al-Sagheer St. Phone: 22456981. Google Maps
• Qurtoba Branch — Mohamed Al-Humoud St. Phone: 153. Google Maps
• Shuwaikh Branch — Abdulrahman Al-Bader St. Phone: 24843600. Google Maps
• Shuwaikh Industrial — Block 1, Street 21. Phone: 24826834. Google Maps
• Doha Branch — Jahra Expressway. Phone: 24672354. Google Maps
• Al-Surra Branch — Block 5, 8 St. Phone: 25332753. Google Maps
• Al-Siddeeq Branch — Block 5, 501 St. Phone: 25247480. Google Maps

Hawalli Governorate

• Hawalli Branch — Block 9, Beirut St. Phone: 22611890. Google Maps
• Mishref Branch — Block 4, Road 59. Phone: 25386794. Google Maps
• Salmiya Branch — Block 4, Al-Domna Lane 7. Phone: 25711646. Google Maps

Farwaniya Governorate

• Abdullah Mubarak Al-Sabah — Block 7, St 701. Phone: 24351582. Google Maps
• Farwaniya Main — Block 4, St 114. Phone: 24766939. Google Maps
• Andalus — Block 11, St 101. Phone: 24897501. Google Maps
• Ardiya — Block 9, St 1, Lane 1. Phone: 24880006. Google Maps
• Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh — Block 5, Khaled Egab Al-Ashhab St. Phone: 24766910. Google Maps
• Ishbilya — Block 3, St 315. Phone: 24383027. Google Maps
• Sabah Al-Nasser — Block 1, St 30. Phone: 24568462. Google Maps
• Subhan — Mohamad Bin Hamada Al-Ajmi St. Phone: 24759990. Google Maps

Jahra Governorate

• Al-Jahra Branch — Abdullah Fahad Al-Lafi St., Block 4. Phone: 24579171. Google Maps
• Oyoun — Block 4, Parcel 900029. Phone: 24575440. Google Maps
• Al-Qairawan — Block 2, St 100. Phone: 24661230. Google Maps
• Saad Al-Abdullah — Block 1, 26 St. Phone: 24542071. Google Maps

Mubarak Al-Kabeer & Qurain Areas

• Adan — Block 3, 20 St. Phone: 25423614. Google Maps
• Al-Qurain — Block 2, 205 St. Phone: 25445115. Google Maps
• Al-Qusor (Qurain) — Block 5. Phone: 25291000. Google Maps
• Sabah Al-Salem — Block 9, Road 5. Phone: 25523284. Google Maps
• Subhan – Main Store Office — Street 2, Subhan. Phone: 25371000. Google Maps

Northern/Outlying Areas

• Al-Abdali — Abdulrahman Alfalah St. Phone: 153. Google Maps
• Jaber Al-Ahmad — (Address per MEW listing; check locally). Phone: 153. Google Maps

For individuals in Kuwait, cancelling your electricity connection and reclaiming your deposit is straightforward if you follow the steps: apply online, submit the meter reading, pay the final bill, and complete a one-time branch visit for verification. With the branch directory and maps above, you can finish the process without confusion and receive your refund in 2–6 weeks.

  

 

 

 

The Ministry of Education reiterated its continued commitment to controlling tuition fees, ensuring the fairness and stability of the educational process and alleviating the burden on parents. The Ministry stated in a statement that Minister of Education Jalal Al-Tabtabaei issued a decision stipulating the continued implementation of the provisions of Ministerial Resolution No. 10 of 2018 regarding tuition fees for private schools, which stipulates a halt to any increases in tuition fees for all private schools.

The decision also stipulated the continued implementation of the provisions of Ministerial Resolution No. (61) of 2020 regarding tuition fees for private schools for people with disabilities, according to the attached lists for the 2025/2026 academic year.

The Ministry of Education noted that, in accordance with the decision, the Minister of Education has authorized the Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs to organize and impose appropriate penalties on schools proven to have violated this resolution or any other decisions and circulars issued pursuant to or in accordance with it, ensuring the implementation of the legal provisions regulating tuition fees.

The Ministry affirmed that the decision is effective from the date of its issuance, and that all relevant authorities are required to be aware of it and act accordingly. It emphasized that maintaining stable tuition fees is a top priority in its efforts to provide balanced education accessible to all students.

  

 

 

 

The Chinese company MCC, during a Ministerial Committee for Monitoring the Implementation of Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding between Kuwait and China meeting has presented a comprehensive vision for the establishment of the new Sabriya City, along with two workers’ cities in Sabriya and South Jahra.

According to official documents, a copy of which has been obtained by Al-Jarida, the Sabriya City project is being closely followed by the leadership of both countries and is considered a cornerstone of Kuwait Vision 2035.

The plan calls for the construction of 52,000 housing units with full services and advanced infrastructure, including roads, water, electricity, and sewage, making it one of the largest housing initiatives in Kuwait’s history.

MCC estimates the total investment for Sabriya City at up to $22 billion (approximately 6.7 billion dinars) under the EPC+F model, which combines financing and implementation.

Under this model, the Chinese company bears the full financial burden, relieving the state of direct costs, while committing to project completion within six to seven years.

The vision also includes a power plant with a production capacity of 3–5 gigawatts, at a cost of 1.5 billion dinars, and a water treatment plant estimated at 400 million dinars to secure sustainable resources.

In addition to this, the MCC has proposed two workers’ cities — one in Sabriya and another in South Jahra — at a combined cost of 700 million dinars, also fully financed by the company.

The Sabriya project would span an area of 80 square kilometers, expandable to 110 square kilometers, with designated commercial and investment zones, as well as a marina.

The company plans to conduct engineering and feasibility studies, supported by an independent economic model designed to attract private investment.

Observers stress that the success of the project depends on swift decision-making by the Public Authority for Housing Welfare and other relevant bodies.

Delays in final agreements, they warn, could jeopardize a rare opportunity to benefit from a comprehensive investment offer that could significantly ease Kuwait’s housing crisis.

  

 

 

 

The Public Authority for Manpower announced the conclusion of the midday work ban for outdoor workers, which was in effect from June 1 to August 31, 2025, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., as part of its “Their Safety Matters” awareness and inspection campaign.

Acting Director General-Marzouq Dhaifallah Al-Otaibi said PAM conducted extensive media and field inspection campaigns throughout the period to ensure compliance with Administrative Resolution No. 535 of 2015, which prohibits outdoor work during peak heat hours to safeguard workers’ health.

Inspection teams visited all governorates, punished in 63 violating sites and took into custody 68 workers, along with 37 reports registered during the campaign, reports Al-Jarida daily.

Al-Otaibi emphasized that the decision balances worker safety with project continuity and aligns with international labor standards.

The Authority also expressed gratitude to committed employers and citizens who assisted in reporting violations, reinforcing the collective effort to protect labor rights.

  

 

 

 

A deadly wave of alcohol poisoning that killed 23 people in Kuwait has also given others a second chance at life, as doctors confirmed that several victims became organ donors in what specialists described as a rare act of hope in the midst of tragedy.

The poisoning, traced to tainted liquor sold illegally, struck more than 160 people — mostly Asian workers — leaving dozens in critical condition.

At least 51 required urgent kidney dialysis, while 31 were placed on mechanical ventilation, Kuwait’s Health Ministry said.

Police later arrested 67 suspects accused of producing and distributing the toxic alcohol, Gulf News reports.

Among the hospitalized, 12 patients were declared brain-dead, said Dr. Mustafa Al Mousawi, chairman of Kuwait’s Organ Transplant Centre. With the consent of grieving families, doctors recovered 20 kidneys, three hearts, four livers, and two lungs.

“Every organ was successfully transplanted, except the lungs, which were found unsuitable,” Al Mousawi said on state television.

Some organs remained in Kuwait, while livers were sent to Abu Dhabi, where Kuwait’s liver transplant program is on hold.

In just five days, Kuwaiti surgeons carried out three heart transplants, according to Dr. Badr Al Ayyad, a cardiac surgery specialist.

Yet the need remains dire — about 500 patients are still waiting for kidney transplants, with delays stretching up to three years.

Doctors called for stronger awareness around organ donation. “This is the last chance to do a good deed in this world, a form of ongoing charity,” Al Mousawi said, urging residents to register via the Health Ministry’s Sahel app.

Religious scholars have endorsed organ donation, with the late Sheikh Ajeel Alnashmi describing it as one of the highest forms of enduring charity.

“This tragedy has been devastating,” Al Mousawi reflected, “but it has also saved lives, turning loss into a source of hope.”

  

 

 

 

Kuwait’s decision to re-enter the global tourism market by welcoming regional and international visitors is already boosting expectations for its tourism revenues.

According to the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA), the sector is forecast to grow from $522 million in 2021 to around $1.13 billion by the end of 2025.

At the heart of this momentum is “restaurant tourism”, which has emerged as one of Kuwait’s most attractive features.

Food service market revenues reached $3.25 billion in 2024, with Scots International projecting growth to $4.88 billion by 2029 at a CAGR of 8.4 percent.

Meanwhile, Verified Markets expects revenues from restaurants, cafes, and cloud kitchens to surge to $38 billion by 2032, driven by strong tourist demand for Kuwait’s diverse dining scene.

Kuwait City’s restaurant sector has gained regional visibility thanks to influential digital food bloggers, who showcase gourmet experiences and shape consumer behavior across social media.

Once casual enthusiasts, these bloggers have evolved into professional content creators, using photography, video, and detailed reviews to evaluate food quality, service, presentation, and ambiance.

Their impact is tangible: positive reviews attract customers, while negative reviews can damage reputations and sales. Studies show that consumers rely heavily on their opinions, making bloggers a key driver in pushing restaurants to improve standards.

However, credibility remains a challenge. With the rise of paid collaborations, many bloggers have called for clear professional standards — including disclosure of partnerships and transparent evaluation criteria — to maintain trust with their audiences.

Despite these challenges, Kuwait has succeeded in positioning itself as a regional leader in dining experiences, with a restaurant sector that rivals global food destinations.

Major events and sporting occasions further amplify tourist spending on restaurants, underscoring the role of digital media as a bridge between visitors and Kuwait’s culinary scene.

  

 

 

 

Kuwait frequently experiences a weather phenomenon known as “haze,” characterized by suspended fine dust and particles in dry air,
leading to reduced horizontal visibility, the Meteorological Center said Sunday.

Acting Director Dhirar Al-Ali told KUNA that haze consists of substances such as fine sand, pollen, and eroded minerals, and typically appears brown or gray, resembling light fog but differing in composition and humidity.

He noted that the phenomenon occurs on more than 290 days annually, especially during May and July, due to strong winds, dry conditions, and human activities such as construction. Haze can affect respiratory health due to high concentrations of fine particles (PM10 and PM2.5), increasing emergency cases among asthma and allergy patients, Al-Ali warned.

Authorities advise staying indoors, wearing N95 masks, and following official weather updates. The Meteorological Center continues to enhance early warning systems and coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure public safety. 

  

 

 

 

Several Kuwaiti banks have launched a new wave of loan rate cuts, offering customers financing at levels not seen in years. Some institutions are now promoting rates as low as 5.75%, compared with the group average of 6% just weeks ago — and well below the 7% benchmark that prevailed until July.

The move has sparked questions about how banks can sustain profit margins as competition intensifies, especially with the Central Bank’s discount rate still fixed at 4%. Yet insiders suggest the strategy is less about immediate returns and more about securing long-term credit growth.

For now, the short-term impact on earnings is expected to be limited. Lower rates may even support banks’ revenues by reviving demand in a credit market slowed by last year’s rapid interest rate hikes, which curbed borrowing appetite among both individuals and businesses.

Analysts also point to global factors. With the US Federal Reserve widely expected to begin cutting rates later this year — possibly with a one-time 0.5% reduction in September — Kuwaiti banks appear to be positioning themselves early to capture a coming surge in loan demand, reports Al-Rai daily.

According to one observer, “Banks don’t want to wait until the Fed moves. If they stick to high rates now, they risk losing both new clients and existing ones to more aggressive competitors.”

The race to offer cheaper loans is also shaped by deeper structural strengths. Banks with large deposit bases, especially those backed by strong government accounts, have more flexibility to fund low-interest lending without eroding margins.

Others rely on their ability to tap international markets. Institutions with broad global networks can access cheaper external financing through syndicated loans, bonds, or sukuk, giving them extra room to compete locally.

The battle for customers is also underpinned by years of accumulated liquidity. With limited domestic demand in recent years, many Kuwaiti banks deployed excess funds abroad, giving them buffers to absorb reduced returns at home.

High precautionary provisions built up over the past decade further cushion the impact. Recoveries from these reserves help offset the cost of shrinking margins while maintaining stability against potential non-performing loans.

Ultimately, industry watchers say the strategy reflects a bigger play: holding market share now to secure long-term interest income when the global monetary cycle shifts decisively toward lower rates. In Kuwait’s banking market, the competition for credit has clearly entered a new phase.

  

 

 

 

With Kuwait set to introduce artificial intelligence across several government jobs from October in collaboration with Microsoft, questions have arisen about the impact on employment.

However, officials emphasize that the strategy is designed to complement — not replace — human resources, backed by training initiatives to upskill national talent, reports Al-Rai daily.

As part of the agreement with Microsoft, Kuwait will roll out a comprehensive qualification program to equip citizens with essential AI skills. The initiative aims to prepare the workforce for the evolving labor market while ensuring that technological transformation does not come at the expense of human contribution.

During the launch of the Kuwait Oil Company’s Artificial Intelligence Innovation Center, KPC Chief Executive Officer Sheikh Nawaf Al-Saud underscored that “there is no substitute for the human element in analyzing AI output.”

Kuwait Oil Company CEO Ahmed Al-Eidan echoed this view, stressing continued investment in young Kuwaiti talent to drive the AI and energy transformation.

Informed sources revealed that government agencies, under the supervision of the Communication & Information Technology Regulatory Authority, are accelerating AI adoption to improve efficiency while simultaneously providing training programs for employees. Officials say this dual-track approach will create new opportunities and strengthen existing jobs, balancing progress with job security.

  

 

 

 

The government plan to relocate the headquarters of ministries, government institutions and agencies from rented buildings to permanent government facilities is moving steadily forward.

Several institutions have already begun taking executive measures to vacate their leased premises ahead of schedule, with clear timetables for relocation in place months before the expiry of existing contracts.

According to informed sources, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has officially notified landlords of its decision to vacate two rented premises by the end of October, in line with the directives issued by the Ministry of Finance. Starting November, the ministry’s expenditures on these temporary facilities will cease entirely, reports Al-Rai daily.

The affected offices include the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Department, which will be transferred to the ministry’s Single Window Department in Ishbiliya, and the Trademarks and Patents Department, will move to the Ministry of Commerce building at the Ministries Complex.

The officials confirmed that this move aligns with the Cabinet’s directive to control and rationalize public spending without disrupting the operations of state institutions. By vacating its leased offices, the Ministry of Commerce is expected to save approximately half a million dinars annually.

The sources stressed that the ministry’s decision to leave early — before the contractual end date — was within its rights, provided it notified landlords two months in advance. This makes the Ministry of Commerce the first government body to implement the cost-cutting directives of the Ministry of Finance.

The broader government relocation plan covers nearly 15 leased contracts across multiple agencies, with annual rental values ranging from 400,000 to one million dinars each. In total, the state currently spends about 60 million dinars annually on temporary headquarters, warehouses, and housing for employees such as judges and medical staff.

While some entities have already identified new permanent offices, others remain in negotiations to secure suitable space. The Capital Markets Authority, for example, is expected to remain in its current rented premises until construction of its new headquarters is complete, due to the sensitive nature of its operations.

The Ministry of Finance has emphasized that any extensions of existing leases granted earlier this year will be the final ones. All ministries and agencies are expected to complete their transition into permanent government buildings by the end of this year.

Additionally, the plan requires agencies to avoid clustering in the capital, both to ease congestion and to reduce costs associated with high-value rentals in central areas. Where possible, ministries will be rehoused in underutilized government buildings, either individually or in shared facilities, depending on their staffing and space requirements.

  

 

 

 

Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior, Major-General Ali Misfer Al-Adwani, said the next phase of security operations will feature advanced technology services designed to increase efficiency and improve the quality of services for citizens and residents.

He commended the efforts exerted by the employees of the General Department of Information Systems and urged continued dedication and innovation to serve national security.

Al-Adwani made these remarks during an inspection visit to the General Department of Information Systems, where he was welcomed by Brigadier General Anwar Al-Yatama, Head of the Human Resources and Technical Support Sector, and Brigadier General Ahmed Majed Al-Majed, Director General of the department.

The Ministry of Interior stated that the Acting Undersecretary was briefed on the electronic systems and smart services launched by the department, including the “Sahel” government application and the Ministry’s website, which streamline security and administrative procedures.

During the visit Al-Adwani also reviewed the current and upcoming projects, focusing on developing the Ministry’s technical infrastructure and enhancing integration across sectors, in line with international standards in security technology and e-services.

Al-Adwani observed the workflow processes of several technical departments, praised staff commitment and efficiency, and emphasized the importance of continuously improving performance while ensuring speed and accuracy in delivery of service.

  

 

 

 

Acting Interior Ministry Undersecretary Major General Ali Al-Adwani said the Information Systems General Department will soon offer more advanced security technology services to improve security work and to better serve the public. In a press statement after the inspection visit at the department that consists of several technical divisions, the ministry disclosed that Al-Adwani was briefed on the workflow at the department. During the visit, Al-Adwani praised the commitment and high efficiency in accomplishing tasks. He stressed the need for the department to continue improving its performance and ensuring accuracy and speed in providing services.

Al-Adwani was also briefed on the electronic systems and smart services launched by the department. These systems aim to ease procedures and simplify security and administrative services for the public through the unified government application for electronic services (Sahel) or the website of the ministry. He also assessed the most vital current and future projects that aim to develop the technical infrastructure of the ministry, and enhance integration between its sectors to keep pace with the latest international standards in the field of security technology and electronic services. The statement added that Head of the Human Resources and Technical Support Sector Brigadier General Anwar Al-Yatama and Director General of the department Brigadier General Ahmed Al-Majid accompanied Al-Adwani throughout his visit.