The General Directorate of Traffic has issued a public alert urging citizens and residents to refrain from displaying used vehicles for sale on roads, public sidewalks, or any part of the roadway, warning that such practices constitute a legal violation.

According to the department, placing a vehicle in a non-designated area for sale is considered a traffic offense and may result in penalties, reports Al-Anba daily.

Offenders face parking violations for using undesignated spaces and risk having their vehicles impounded for up to 60 days, in accordance with Article 207 of the executive regulations of the Traffic Law.

The Traffic Directorate has emphasized on the importance of adhering to approved methods for selling vehicles, recommending the use of licensed showrooms, authorized dealerships, and accredited electronic platforms.

The department stressed that these measures aim to ensure public safety, maintain traffic flow, and uphold the laws in force.

Google has joined cybersecurity experts in warning users about the dangers of public Wi-Fi networks, highlighting the potential for fraud and theft of sensitive data, including banking information.

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, airports, and other public spaces, making it convenient for users in areas with poor 4G or 5G coverage or for saving on mobile data. However, these networks are often unencrypted and vulnerable to cyberattacks.

In a recent report on Android security, Google advised users to avoid public Wi-Fi whenever possible, noting that attackers can easily exploit unsecured networks.

The report also emphasized the importance of monitoring bank accounts and credit reports, and paying attention to alerts from Android devices that detect potential scams.

With cyberattacks on the rise, experts recommend using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to encrypt data when public Wi-Fi use is unavoidable.

Users should also disable automatic Wi-Fi connections on their devices and verify network names, as cybercriminals often create fake networks that mimic legitimate ones.

These precautions aim to safeguard personal information and increase awareness of growing cyber threats.

The General Traffic Department announced Resolution No. (2) of 2025 has been issued, which officially approves the list of companies authorized to issue insurance policies for civil liability arising from traffic accidents — the compulsory vehicle insurance required for all Kuwait-registered vehicles.

The department emphasized that only the companies included in this approved list are legally permitted to issue or renew mandatory vehicle insurance policies for citizens and residents.

The department urged all vehicle owners to ensure they deal exclusively with these approved companies when obtaining or renewing their insurance coverage.

According to the new decision, the officially approved companies are — Kuwait Insurance Company, Baitak Takaful Insurance Company, Gulf Insurance Group, Gulf Takaful Insurance Company, National Insurance Company, Al-Daman Takaful Insurance Company, Warba Insurance and Reinsurance Company, Arab Islamic Takaful Insurance Company, and The First Takaful Insurance Company.

This is in addition to the Zamzam Takaful Insurance Company, a branch of the Bahrain Kuwait Insurance Company, Kuwait International Takaful Insurance Company, Gulf Insurance and Reinsurance Company, Lebanese Swiss Guarantee Company, Kuwaiti Qatari Insurance Company, Enaya Insurance Company, a branch of the Saudi Arabian Insurance Company, Burgan Takaful Insurance Company, Arab Insurance Company, Taazur Takaful Insurance Company, International Takaful Insurance Company, Wethaq Takaful Insurance Company, Elaf Takaful Insurance Company, Misr Insurance Company, Boubyan Takaful Insurance Company, National Life and General Insurance Company, and Kuwait Islamic Takaful Insurance Company.

The General Traffic Department reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring compliance with the new resolution to enhance transparency and regulate the issuance of mandatory vehicle insurance policies in accordance with approved standards.

• The Kapas Kisan App is ushering India’s cotton ecosystem into the digital age. Farmers will track every transaction, from booking to payments, directly on their smartphones. This system eliminates delays, prevents crowding, and ensures timely payments into bank accounts, creating a transparent, efficient, and farmer-friendly market.
• The Kapas Kranti Mission goes beyond a typical agricultural scheme. It is a blueprint for rural transformation, focused on improving productivity in India’s cotton-growing regions through high-density plantation (HDP), precision irrigation, and scientific agronomy.
• By adopting advanced farming methods, including closer plant spacing and technology-driven irrigation, the program aims to replicate the success seen in Maharashtra’s Akola district, a model for innovative cotton cultivation.
• Transparency is central to the mission. The government has cracked down on middlemen, unscrupulous ginning mills, and counterfeit seed suppliers.
• Offenders face legal action, including license revocations and preventive detention measures. By eliminating fake seeds and strengthening quality control, farmers are guaranteed access to genuine, high-yielding varieties.

India’s cotton fields are undergoing a quiet yet powerful transformation. At the heart of this change is the $68 million (Rs 600 crore) Kapas Kranti Mission, launched by the Government of India to boost long-staple cotton production, empower farmers, and strengthen the nation’s textile industry.

Announced in Hyderabad, Telangana, by Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, the initiative aims to bring science, technology, and innovation to every stage of cotton cultivation — from seed to sale — ensuring farmers are better equipped, better compensated, and more productive.

Modernizing cotton cultivation through innovation

The Kapas Kranti Mission goes beyond a typical agricultural scheme. It is a blueprint for rural transformation, focused on improving productivity in India’s cotton-growing regions through high-density plantation (HDP), precision irrigation, and scientific agronomy.

By adopting advanced farming methods, including closer plant spacing and technology-driven irrigation, the program aims to replicate the success seen in Maharashtra’s Akola district, a model for innovative cotton cultivation.

Farmers from other states, particularly Telangana, are invited to Akola to gain firsthand experience in these techniques, which can dramatically improve yield and quality. The government’s long-term goal is to position India as a global leader in high-quality, sustainable long-staple cotton.

A standout feature of the mission is its digital focus. The ‘Kapas Kisan App’, launched after Diwali, allows farmers to pre-book sales slots, bypass middlemen, and secure fair prices for their produce. It also provides real-time updates on procurement schedules, market rates, and quality standards.

To ensure widespread adoption, agriculture officials, Panchayat workers, and rural youth are conducting awareness campaigns in nine languages, using social media, videos, and village meetings. Post-Diwali, the government opened 122 procurement centers and 345 ginning units, monitored by committees of officials, police, and farmer representatives to guarantee transparency and protect farmers from exploitation.

A decade of growth laid the groundwork

The Kapas Kranti Mission builds on a decade of progress in India’s cotton sector. Between 2014 and 2024, cotton procurement surged from 173 lakh bales ($3.5 billion) to 473 lakh bales ($17 billion), reflecting both policy stability and farmer confidence. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for cotton has nearly doubled under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ensuring farmers earn fair returns for their work.

In Telangana and Andhra Pradesh alone, the Centre has spent nearly $8 billion (Rs 65,000 crore) on procurement, creating a renewed sense of purpose for millions of farming families.

Transparency is central to the mission. The government has cracked down on middlemen, unscrupulous ginning mills, and counterfeit seed suppliers. Offenders face legal action, including license revocations and preventive detention measures. By eliminating fake seeds and strengthening quality control, farmers are guaranteed access to genuine, high-yielding varieties.

Learning from success, expanding horizons

Training is a key pillar of the mission. Farmers from Telangana and neighboring states will visit Akola to observe HDP techniques, soil management, and pest control practices, creating a new generation of knowledge-driven, tech-savvy cotton growers.

Post-harvest visits will allow them to study every stage of the value chain — from field preparation to ginning and packaging — bringing back insights to enhance local practices.

The Kapas Kisan App is ushering India’s cotton ecosystem into the digital age. Farmers will track every transaction, from booking to payments, directly on their smartphones. This system eliminates delays, prevents crowding, and ensures timely payments into bank accounts, creating a transparent, efficient, and farmer-friendly market.

Cotton as a symbol of self-reliance

The Kapas Kranti Mission reflects a broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat — a self-reliant India. By modernizing cotton cultivation, the government strengthens the textile sector, supports millions of jobs, and increases exports. High-quality long-staple cotton allows India to compete globally, meeting domestic demand while expanding its presence in international markets.

The $68 million Kapas Kranti Mission is more than a productivity program — it is a movement restoring pride, prosperity, and hope to India’s cotton farmers.

With procurement centers opened post-Diwali and digital systems taking root, India’s cotton-growing regions are poised for a new era of empowerment. From Telangana’s fields to Maharashtra’s markets, the seeds of change have been sown, promising a harvest of resilience, innovation, and progress.

In a new achievement that adds to its record of excellence and security, the State of Kuwait ranked sixth globally in the list of the safest countries for 2025, according to the Global Safety Report issued by the prestigious international organization, Gallup.

The ranking is a global testament to Kuwait’s success in building a robust security system and a cohesive society governed by law and tranquility, at a time when the world is witnessing increasing unrest and conflicts in various regions.

The report confirms that Kuwait achieved this ranking thanks to integrated strategies in the areas of security, justice and social development, as the state gave utmost importance to the application of the law and the strengthening of trust between the citizen and state institutions, making it a leading model in the region in terms of community security and quality of life.

The report also revealed that a significant percentage of Kuwaiti residents feel safe walking alone in public places at night, a strong indicator of the stability enjoyed by Kuwaiti society. This feeling reflects the deep mutual trust between individuals and security forces, with both citizens and residents feeling that the law and order protect them equally, and that Kuwait provides an environment characterized by discipline and mutual respect.

Kuwait scored highly on the ‘Law and Order’ index, demonstrating the efficiency of its security apparatus and its ability to respond swiftly to incidents and maintain public safety, as well as the existence of a fair judicial system that ensures the law is applied to everyone without discrimination. This is one of the most prominent pillars of sustainable security upon which prosperous societies are built.

In regional comparisons, Kuwait stands out as one of the most prominent models of stability in the Arabian Gulf, having successfully balanced security and development despite surrounding challenges. The report affirms that Kuwait represents a unique environment combining political and social stability with economic openness, making it a safe and preferred destination for living, working, and investing in the region.

Experts believe that security in Kuwait extends beyond criminal matters to encompass economic and social security. The country’s stability encourages investors to confidently inject capital, giving the local market greater potential for growth and expansion. This secure environment has contributed to supporting development, attracting investments, and strengthening the stability of the currency and the national economy.

The global report also indicates that violence costs the world trillions of dollars annually, while safe countries spend far less on addressing tensions and instead invest in peace and development. In this context, Kuwait’s experience represents a successful model for managing security as a tool for achieving internal peace and contributing to a more stable and cooperative regional environment.

Observers agree that Kuwait’s success in achieving this global ranking is due to its wise leadership, which has established a balanced approach to governance, combining firmness in enforcing laws with flexibility in addressing societal issues, while consistently strengthening its legal and institutional infrastructure. Furthermore, Kuwait’s balanced foreign policy has contributed to solidifying its image as a nation of peace and an active humanitarian diplomat.

Kuwait’s ranking among the six safest countries in the world for 2025 is not merely a statistical achievement, but a testament to its success in building a safe and stable society based on justice, the rule of law, and mutual trust. This achievement confirms that Kuwait is steadily progressing towards a more secure and prosperous future, grounded in its deeply rooted values ​​of coexistence and peace, and continuing to solidify its position as a beacon of security and stability in the region and the world.

As part of intensified regulatory measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, banks have expanded their monitoring of funds transferred through the ‘Wamd’ and ‘Links’ services. The scrutiny now extends to any unusual inflows into individual customer accounts — even single, one-time transactions — if the amounts appear significant or inconsistent with the account holder’s financial profile.

According to informed sources quoted by Al-Rai, regulatory authorities have increased oversight of commercial transactions conducted through personal accounts, particularly those used to deposit business proceeds via ‘Wamd’ or ‘Links.’

Transfers that exceed the customer’s declared income in the bank’s Know Your Customer (KYC) data by notable margins are being closely examined.

In such cases, customers are first questioned by their respective banks. If their explanations fail to justify the source of funds, the matter is escalated to the Financial Investigations Unit (FIU) for further review — especially when the deposits clearly do not match the individual’s recorded income.

The sources emphasized that personal accounts must not be used for business or commercial transactions, revealing that investigations have already been launched against individuals whose account activity showed inflows exceeding their reported income.

Some were found to be receiving proceeds from their employers’ business operations and were subsequently required to sign formal pledges not to use personal accounts for commercial transfers.

In a step that reflects Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to develop its infrastructure and improve the urban landscape, seven government agencies have completed the preparation of the “Guide for Regulating the Construction of Car Park Shades in Kuwait.”

The new guide serves as a unified reference for the design and implementation of car park canopies in public facilities, including cooperative societies, schools, mosques, clinics, health centers, and hospitals.

Government sources told Al-Rai that the guide aims to create a comprehensive regulatory framework to enhance the country’s aesthetic appeal while ensuring safety and quality standards in canopy construction. It aligns with the state’s vision for an integrated and sustainable urban environment.

A specialized committee had earlier been formed to develop unified specifications and standards, and the completed guide has now been submitted to the Public Services Committee in the Council of Ministers for approval and adoption across Kuwait.

Following the committee’s submission, the Cabinet tasked the Ministry of Social Affairs, in coordination with the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy and Kuwait Municipality, to review the guide and explore the potential use of solar-powered car park umbrellas where technically feasible. The move prioritizes renewable energy solutions in public projects.

The Cabinet also emphasized that all government bodies must adhere strictly to the approved designs and specifications outlined in the guide. Each entity will be responsible for constructing its own car park shades within designated boundaries, ensuring that structures do not encroach onto streets or violate public space regulations.

To enhance public understanding of the initiative, the Ministry of Social Affairs was instructed, in coordination with the Ministry of Information and other relevant authorities, to launch a nationwide awareness campaign.

The campaign will explain the objectives and benefits of the guide and encourage community awareness about the importance of organized, visually cohesive parking spaces across Kuwait.

It is noteworthy that the Cabinet had previously issued a decision in October of last year assigning the Minister of Social Affairs, in coordination with the Ministries of Public Works, Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Education, and Health, along with Kuwait Municipality and the Union of Cooperative Societies, to establish unified standards for car park shades in mosques, schools, and cooperative societies.

The new regulatory guide confirms that the goal of standardizing canopy designs is to improve the overall aesthetic of urban and service areas while facilitating vehicle movement and providing shade and protection from extreme heat.

The guide also sets forth technical and design criteria, requiring the use of durable, weather-resistant materials and the inclusion of effective rainwater drainage and ventilation systems. It further mandates that designs harmonize with the surrounding environment in color and form, contributing to a unified visual identity for each district.

Officials explained that the guide emphasizes the use of sustainable, color-coordinated materials that align with Kuwait’s urban identity, provide ultraviolet protection, and enhance the overall quality of life in public spaces.

The regulatory document also outlines a comprehensive approval and monitoring process, requiring engineering firms to oversee project execution in coordination with Kuwait Municipality.

Site inspections will be conducted to ensure full compliance with design and safety standards. The Municipality will retain the right to remove any unlicensed or non-compliant canopy, while contractors and engineering offices will be held responsible for adherence to specifications and environmental requirements.

Ultimately, the “Guide for Regulating the Construction of Car Park Shades” represents a major step toward unifying urban design practices in Kuwait and ensuring that all public facilities contribute to a modern, safe, and sustainable cityscape.

The latest data from the Central Bank of Kuwait revealed that the “Wamd” instant payment service achieved exceptional growth during the first nine months of 2025, with the total value of transactions reaching approximately 6.063 billion Kuwaiti dinars, distributed across 80,200 transactions at an average of 76 dinars per transaction.

The figures highlight a sustained surge in the use of digital payment systems, driven by strong performance in the second and third quarters of the year.

Transaction values rose by 24.8 percent in the second quarter to reach 2.026 billion dinars, before climbing another 19.1 percent in the third quarter to 2.414 billion dinars. The first quarter had already recorded a significant 47.3 percent increase, with transactions totaling 1.623 billion dinars, compared to 1.101 billion in the final quarter of 2024.

The Central Bank noted that this steady upward trend underscores the growing preference among individuals and businesses to adopt “Wamd” as a primary digital payment channel, thanks to its speed, reliability, and enhanced security features.

The continued success of “Wamd” reflects Kuwait’s progress toward advancing its digital finance ecosystem and promoting cashless transactions, in line with the country’s broader vision for technological innovation and financial inclusion.

A recent scientific study highlighted by the British newspaper The Independent has revealed remarkable health benefits of green coriander (Cilantro), particularly in regulating blood sugar levels. This makes the herb a valuable dietary addition for diabetics and those at risk of developing the condition.

Fresh coriander is an aromatic herb that divides opinions—some enjoy its distinct flavor, while others find it unappealing. Regardless of taste, research confirms its notable health advantages.

Numerous studies indicate that fresh coriander contains bioactive compounds that contribute to:

• Improved insulin sensitivity: Enhancing the ability of cells to respond more effectively to insulin.
• Lowering glucose levels: Reducing post-meal blood sugar spikes, a key benefit for diabetics.
• Regulating insulin secretion: Supporting balanced insulin production and release by the pancreas.
• Slowing sugar absorption: Fiber and active compounds help delay glucose absorption in the intestines.

Beyond blood sugar regulation, coriander offers a range of additional health benefits:

• Antioxidant properties: Contains quercetin and tocopherol, which combat free radicals and protect cells.
• Heart health support: Helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL).
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Aids in reducing chronic inflammation associated with various diseases.
• Digestive support: Stimulates digestive enzymes and alleviates bloating and gas.
• Detoxification: Assists the liver and kidneys in removing heavy metals and other toxins.

Overall, incorporating fresh coriander into the diet may provide multiple health benefits, making it more than just a flavorful herb—it can be a natural aid in promoting metabolic, cardiovascular, and digestive well-being.

Before you apply for any loan, credit card, car finance, or instalment plan in Kuwait, check your Ci-Net credit score and credit report. This is what banks and finance companies look at when they decide approvals, limits, and pricing. Checking takes a few minutes, costs little (or nothing), and can save you from rejections, delays, or lower limits.

What Is the Ci-Net Credit Score & Why It Matters

Your Ci-Net score is a number that summarises how reliably you’ve handled credit in Kuwait. Higher is better. Lenders use it (with their own internal rules) to decide if they should approve you, how much to lend, and on what terms.

Ci-Net Score Levels (as shown in the report)

• Elite: 820–960
• Ultimate: 720–819
• Prime: 480–719
• Severe: 120–479
• Risk: 60–119
• Not Applicable: Not enough recent history to calculate a score (e.g., no usable data in the last ~2 years)

Rule of thumb: Aim for Prime or above (≥480) for healthier lending conversations. Each bank still applies its own policy.

What’s Inside Your Kuwait Credit Report

Your report shows your Kuwait credit footprint from when your credit history started:

• All credit you’ve taken: loans, credit cards, instalment accounts (open & closed)
• Limits, balances, monthly instalments
• Payment history (on-time/late), any defaults/overdues
• Inquiries (which banks/companies viewed your file)
• Your score level (and indicator/gauge)

If you see “standing not available”, it usually means there isn’t enough recent (~2-year) history to generate a score.

Official Ci-Net Links

• Website: https://www.cinet.com.kw/en/
• Email -     customercomplaint@cinet.com.kw
• Hotline no - 1800808
• iOS – App Store: CINET Kuwait
• Android – Google Play: CINET Kuwait
• Huawei – AppGallery: search CINET Kuwait in AppGallery, or use Ci-Net’s QR page: QR Download

How to Check Your Credit Score on the CINET App (2–5 Minutes)

What you need: Civil ID, Kuwait mobile number (for OTP), email address, and K-Net/debit/credit card if you choose the paid report.

1. Install the app (links above) and open it.
2. Tap Create account → enter Civil ID, mobile number, and email → enter the OTP.
3. Set your password and confirm your details.
4. Tap Credit Report / Credit Score (Self-Inquiry).
5. Choose:
   • Free report and download

Free vs Paid — What’s the Difference?

• Free report (in-app view/basic PDF): shows your loans/cards, limits, balances, payment history, inquiries, and score level. Great for a quick health check.
• Paid self-inquiry (KD 5): gives an official, downloadable PDF you can keep for records and use for disputes (the report you attach must be issued within the last 15 days).

Does checking hurt my score? No—self-inquiry is a soft check and does not reduce your score.

Other Ways to Get Your Report & Score

• Ci-Net HQ (Printed Copy): Assima Tower, Floor 35, Mirqab, Kuwait City (Sun–Thu, business hours). Bring Civil ID → fill self-inquiry → pay (if applicable) → collect print.
• Through Your Bank (with consent): ask your bank to pull a self-inquiry; you’ll sign authorisation/consent. (Bank admin fees, if any, vary.)

Disputes: How to Fix Errors (Simple & Exact)

When to file: If something is wrong and your report was issued within the last 15 days.

Where/how: file in the CINET app/website (online services) or visit Ci-Net HQ (Assima Tower, Floor 35, Mirqab).

Attach (Individuals):

• Your credit report (≤ 15 days old)
• Valid Civil ID
• Supporting proof (e.g., bank closure letter, payment receipts, settlement letter)

Timelines: Ci-Net responds within 15 days from the date the concerned department receives your complaint. If you disagree, you can appeal to the Central Bank of Kuwait within 15 days of the decision.

Note: While a complaint is under review, Ci-Net handles the complaint only (not general enquiries on your file).

FAQs

Do expats get access?

Yes. Citizens and expatriates can both obtain their report and score after identity verification.

Can a bank check my report without permission?

No. Lenders require your explicit consent/authorisation to access your report.

I have no score. Why?

If it shows “Not Applicable” or “standing not available,” there isn’t enough recent (~2-year) history to produce a score. Your report will still list any available accounts/inquiries.

Is Ci-Net the lender or decision-maker?

No. Ci-Net is not a lender and does not approve or reject loans. Banks and finance companies decide using your report/score plus their own policies.

How often should I check my report?

Check before any major application and after big changes (e.g., loans closed, overdues cleared) to confirm updates and accuracy.

Is there a subscription?

No. You can pay per report. Any optional alerts the app may offer are separate.

Quick Tips to Improve Your Score

• Pay on time (use reminders or auto-pay)
• Keep card balances low versus limits
• Reduce outstanding debt steadily
• Avoid new debt spikes before applications
• Monitor regularly and dispute errors quickly

Under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah, Kuwait will host the Ninth Gulf-European Business Forum on Wednesday under the theme “Together for Shared Prosperity.”

The two-day event, organized at the Abdullah Al-Salem Cultural Centre, brings together senior government officials, business leaders, investors, and innovators from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Europe.

As the current chair of the GCC, Kuwait is presiding over this strategic gathering, which aims to strengthen economic cooperation between the Gulf and Europe, promote trade and investment opportunities, and support knowledge exchange and innovation in pursuit of economic diversification and sustainable growth.
A Platform for Strategic Partnerships

The forum serves as a key platform to build new Gulf-European partnerships, explore joint ventures, and foster dialogue between the public and private sectors. Participants will engage in discussions on issues such as green growth, digital transformation, food security, renewable energy, and sustainable finance.

European ambassadors, in statements to Al-Rai, praised Kuwait’s pivotal role in fostering stronger relations between the GCC and the European Union, describing it as a reliable and forward-looking partner in advancing regional economic integration and sustainable development.

They commended Kuwait’s stable investment environment and progressive legislation, which continue to attract European investors seeking opportunities in the country’s growing sectors.

November 6 stands as a shining milestone in Kuwait’s modern history — an enduring reminder of how national unity and love for the homeland can achieve the extraordinary.

It marks the anniversary of extinguishing the last oil well fire ignited by the brutal Iraqi invasion, a feat that demonstrated Kuwait’s resilience and determination to rebuild from devastation.

From the heart of one of the worst environmental disasters in modern history, Kuwait emerged as a regional leader in environmental protection and the promotion of Arab environmental awareness.

The nation turned its painful experience into a powerful lesson for the world — proving that from crisis can come responsibility, and from destruction can arise renewal that safeguards the environment and the future of generations to come.

Environmentalists have long referred to the disaster as the “Gulf Tragedy,” which underscored the importance of placing biodiversity and ecological balance at the center of sustainable development efforts.

Following the Iraqi invasion of 1990, hundreds of oil wells were deliberately set ablaze, filling the skies with thick black smoke and plunging the Gulf region into an environmental catastrophe of historic proportions. Yet, against all odds, the Kuwaiti people — driven by courage and expertise — managed to extinguish the fires within months. The last flame was put out on November 6, 1991, defying global expectations that the inferno would burn for years.

This remarkable accomplishment was not merely a technical or engineering success; it symbolized the birth of a new era of environmental consciousness in Kuwait and across the Arab world.

Out of this harsh experience, the Kuwait Environmental Protection Society called for global recognition of the environmental toll of wars and conflicts. The Society proposed the creation of an international day to remind the world of the need to protect nature from the ravages of war — a proposal that garnered strong official backing from Kuwait.

The initiative culminated in the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of Resolution 56/4 on November 5, 2001, designating November 6 — the day Kuwait extinguished its last oil well fire — as the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict. Since then, the occasion has carried both national pride and humanitarian significance, marked by a distinctly Kuwaiti legacy.

The broader region has paid a steep price for decades of wars and conflicts — its infrastructure shattered, water sources contaminated, soil poisoned, and ecosystems severely damaged.

Confronted with these challenges, Kuwait has reaffirmed its role as an Arab hub for promoting collective environmental action. The country continues to champion the belief that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility that extends beyond governments to include civil society, the media, and individuals alike.

In this spirit, and with the support of the General Union of Arab Producers, Kuwait established the General Secretariat for Environment and Sustainable Development in December 2017.

The Secretariat serves as a unified Arab platform for environmental media, dedicated to raising awareness, producing specialized content, and promoting a culture of sustainability. Through educational programming and awareness campaigns, it seeks to highlight the efforts of Arab nations in combating pollution and protecting the planet for future generations.

From the ashes of destruction, Kuwait has built an enduring legacy — one that continues to inspire the region and the world with its message that resilience, responsibility, and unity can turn even the darkest tragedy into a beacon of hope for humanity and the environment.

Over the past five years, the cost of living in Kuwait has climbed steadily, mirroring a global trend of rising prices across nearly all goods and services. Despite the absence of taxes on individuals or businesses and the continued provision of state subsidies for food, housing, health, and education, Kuwaiti consumers and residents are increasingly feeling the strain of inflation.

Globally, few countries have escaped this wave of rising prices — from wealthy nations like the United States and those in the European Union to developing economies in Asia and Africa. The lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, disrupted supply chains, and ongoing geopolitical tensions have together fueled persistent price increases.

Imported Inflation Dominates

In Kuwait’s case, inflation is largely imported. With more than 95% of basic commodities brought in from abroad, fluctuations in international prices are quickly transmitted to the local market. Official data confirms consistent annual increases in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), with food prices leading the surge.

This dependency makes Kuwait’s economy highly sensitive to global dynamics, particularly in the energy sector. The rise in international oil prices increases the cost of maritime shipping — the primary means of transporting imports — thereby pushing up consumer prices at home. In July 2025, energy prices alone contributed 2.39% to monthly inflation.

Although Kuwait is a major oil exporter, it remains vulnerable to global energy market volatility. Because energy and oil prices are determined globally, they are classified as external inflationary factors beyond Kuwait’s direct control.

Sectors Most Affected

The sectors that experienced the steepest price hikes include:

• Food and beverages: The leading driver of inflation, with prices rising more than 5% in most months.
• Clothing and footwear: Recorded increases between 4% and 5%.
• Health and education: Moderate yet persistent price rises.
• Transportation: In contrast to other Gulf states, this sector occasionally saw price declines, mitigating some inflationary impact.

Global and Local Dynamics

Kuwait’s inflation reflects the interplay between global pressures and domestic factors. The partial peg of the Kuwaiti dinar to the US dollar makes the country susceptible to dollar fluctuations. As energy prices rise globally, demand for the dollar increases, further elevating import costs.

Domestically, rising production costs—such as wages, electricity, and transport—contribute to inflation. The shift in consumer demand toward imported goods, luxury services, and international travel has also added pressure to prices, though these lifestyle factors are secondary compared to external influences.

Moderate Yet Persistent Inflation

While inflation in Kuwait is moderate relative to global levels, its impact is pronounced in daily life. Official data from 2025 highlights steady price increases:

• March 2025: CPI up 2.41% year-on-year
• February 2025: CPI up 2.49%, with food prices up 5.23%
• June 2025: CPI up 2.32%, with food prices up 5.11%
• July 2025: CPI up 2.39%, with food prices up 5.63%

According to the Gulf Statistical Center (GCC-Stat), inflation across Gulf countries averaged 1.7% in October 2024, but Kuwait topped the list with 2.4%.

A Call for Structural Reform

Although Kuwait’s inflation levels are moderate compared to global standards, the cumulative effect on households is significant. Economists emphasize the importance of:

• Diversifying domestic production to reduce import dependence.
• Strengthening supply chains to ensure stability during global disruptions.
• Encouraging local competition to drive efficiency and lower operating costs.

Inflation in Kuwait, therefore, is not merely a reflection of global trends — it is a reminder of the vulnerabilities of an import-dependent economy. Addressing it requires a long-term vision focused on economic diversification, local industry development, and sustainable consumption patterns.

Kuwait Municipality has issued warnings to 67 properties in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area, declaring them at risk of collapse and ordering their immediate evacuation and demolition due to their dangerous condition.

The Director-General of Kuwait Municipality, Engineer Manal Al-Asfour, issued an administrative decision requiring property owners to evacuate and demolish the buildings within two weeks from the publication of the decision in the Official Gazette (Kuwait Alyawm).

The decision follows reports from the Government Center for Testing, Quality Control, and Research, a letter from the Deputy Director General for Farwaniya and Mubarak Al-Kabeer Governorates, and a notice from the Legal Department. These reports confirmed that the buildings are structurally unsafe, at risk of collapse, and pose an imminent threat to life, property, and public safety.

Al-Asfour highlighted that the municipality will monitor compliance closely. She warned that if owners fail to carry out the demolitions within the specified timeframe, the municipality will remove the buildings at the owners’ expense, ensuring they are first completely evacuated.

This move underscores Kuwait Municipality’s commitment to public safety and urban risk management.

The Government of Japan yesterday awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun, one of the Japan’s highest honors bestowed by the Emperor of Japan, to His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, in recognition of his distinguished contributions to fostering and deepening the bonds of friendship between Kuwait and Japan.

In a statement issued by Kurihara Rei, Second Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in Kuwait, it was noted that “His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed has made exceptional contributions over the years to the development, consolidation, and expansion of Kuwaiti-Japanese relations through his various capacities—as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Head of the Amiri Diwan, and later as Prime Minister.”

The statement recalled that in 1990, during the Gulf War, His Highness visited Japan as a representative of the Amir of Kuwait to seek Japan’s support. This diplomatic mission resulted in Japan providing $13.5 billion in assistance and deploying the Japanese Self-Defense Forces overseas for the first time, laying the foundation for a lasting relationship of mutual trust between the two nations.

As Head of the Amiri Diwan, Sheikh Nasser played a key role in organizing the visit of the Japanese Crown Prince and his consort (at the time) to Kuwait, as well as facilitating the official visit of the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to Japan in 1995, which further strengthened the ties between the Japanese Imperial Family and the Kuwaiti ruling family.

During his tenure as Prime Minister, Sheikh Nasser worked diligently to enhance economic and trade cooperation between the two countries, notably through the establishment of a joint Kuwaiti-Japanese committee and the signing of a bilateral tax agreement, which broadened collaboration beyond the traditional oil sector.

Even after leaving office, His Highness maintained close relations with the Japanese Imperial Family, fostering a mutual bond of respect and trust spanning two generations, and continuing to play an influential role in advancing Kuwaiti-Japanese friendship.

The statement concluded: “In recognition of these remarkable achievements and his lifelong dedication to strengthening the partnership between Japan and Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah has been awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun.”

The Ministry of Interior announced that biometric fingerprinting will no longer be conducted at border crossings, including air, land, and sea ports, to prevent congestion previously experienced at these locations.

Instead, biometric fingerprinting for citizens will be carried out prior to departure at the personal identification centers of the General Department of Criminal Evidence and the National Identity Centers, reports Al-Rai daily.

For residents, the procedure will be available at the personal identification centers of the General Department of Criminal Evidence in all governorates.

The ministry explained that the decision is aimed at streamlining travel procedures and ensuring smooth traffic flow at Kuwait’s entry and exit points, including Kuwait International Airport and the country’s land and sea ports.

The move follows a noticeable increase in travelers who had not completed the required biometric process beforehand, leading to delays and overcrowding during departures.

The Ministry of Interior urged all citizens and residents to complete the biometric fingerprinting process well in advance of their travel dates at the designated centers, to avoid any obstacles or delays when leaving the country.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued Ministerial Resolution No. 182 of 2025, prohibiting cash transactions for companies engaged in specific sectors, including gold, precious stones, and precious metals.

According to Article 1 of the resolution, all institutions and companies operating in these fields must refrain from using cash when concluding contracts or carrying out transactions.

Instead, payments must be made exclusively through non-cash methods approved by the Central Bank of Kuwait, in full adherence to its regulations, reports Al-Rai daily.

The ministry stressed that any establishment found in violation of this rule will face immediate closure and referral to the competent investigative authorities for necessary legal action. These measures come without prejudice to any other penalties stipulated under relevant laws.

The decision underscores the ministry’s commitment to enhancing transparency, combating money laundering, and aligning commercial practices with the country’s financial regulatory framework.

The Al-Ujairi Scientific Center announced that Kuwait’s night skies will witness a series of remarkable astronomical phenomena throughout November, featuring stunning planetary conjunctions, distinct lunar phases, and captivating meteor showers—many of which can be enjoyed with the naked eye.

In a statement, the center described November as one of the most eventful months of the year for astronomy, offering space enthusiasts a rare chance to observe celestial wonders across the horizon.

The phenomena begin on Sunday with a striking conjunction between the moon and Saturn, when the two will appear just three degrees apart on the western horizon shortly after sunset. The moon, at 12 days old, will be prominently visible during the event, reports Al-Jarida daily.

On November 5, the moon will reach its full phase, known as the “Beaver Moon”—a name rooted in ancient traditions marking the season when beavers built their dams. The bright full moon will illuminate Kuwait’s skies with exceptional clarity.

The month’s highlight will occur on November 10, when the moon passes near Jupiter, just 3 degrees and 56 minutes north of the giant planet. This rare conjunction, visible in clear weather, promises one of the most impressive celestial sights of the year.

Another notable event follows on November 12, when Mercury and Mars align at the same right ascension, with Mercury appearing just over one degree south of Mars. The conjunction will be visible before sunrise on the eastern horizon.

Mid-November will bring the enchanting Leonid meteor shower, lasting from November 6 to 30 and peaking between November 17 and 18. The meteors, created by debris from the Tempel–Tuttle comet, are known for their bright, fast streaks across the dark sky.

The month’s astronomical finale will take place on November 20 with the appearance of the new moon, marking the beginning of Jumada Al-Akhirah. This lunar phase, when the sun and moon align, will produce the smallest crescent of 2025, as the moon reaches its farthest point from Earth.

The center encouraged the public to enjoy these celestial displays from locations away from light pollution, describing November as “an ideal opportunity to witness the splendor of the night sky.”

With November’s arrival, the center noted, Kuwait’s skies will also feature the return of the winter constellations—such as Al-Saad, Taurus, Sirius, and the Pleiades cluster—signaling the start of the prime stargazing season, when cold, clear nights reveal the brightest stars of the year.