The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has announced the enforcement of Decree-Law No. 5/2025, amending certain provisions of Decree-Law No. 67/1976 related to traffic regulations. The revised law, which comes into effect on April 22, 2025, introduces stricter penalties, including immediate arrests and significantly higher fines for major violations.

According to the General Directorate of Security Relations and Media, offenders can now face immediate arrest for the following serious traffic violations:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or psychotropic substances.
• Causing an accident that results in injury or death.
• Illegal road racing without a permit or violating an issued permit.
• Attempting to flee after an accident causing harm to others.
• Ignoring a police officer’s order to stop.
• Exceeding speed limits by more than 50 km/h.
• Driving an all-terrain vehicle in non-designated areas.
• Running a red traffic light.
• Using a vehicle for unauthorized purposes.
• Transporting passengers for a fee without a permit.
• Reckless driving, endangering oneself and others.
• Driving without a valid license, or with a revoked, suspended, or mismatched license.
• Operating a vehicle without official license plates.

In addition to stricter enforcement, fines for various traffic violations have increased significantly under the new law:

• Running a red light: Increased from KD 50 (USD 163.1) to KD 150 (USD 489.5).
• Reckless driving: Raised from KD 30 (USD 97.9) to KD 150 (USD 489.5).
• Parking in spaces for people with disabilities: Up from KD 10 (USD 32.6) to KD 150 (USD 489.5).
• Using a mobile phone while driving: Increased from KD 5 (USD 16.3) to KD 75 (USD 244.7).
• Failure to wear a seatbelt: Raised from KD 10 (USD 32.6) to KD 30 (USD 97.9).

The new traffic regulations are part of the government's broader initiative to enhance road safety, reduce accidents, and protect motorists and pedestrians. By imposing stricter fines and authorizing immediate arrests, authorities aim to create a safer driving environment across Kuwait.

Authorities encourage all drivers to adhere to traffic rules, emphasizing that these measures are designed to prevent accidents and save lives. The Ministry of Interior urges citizens and residents to stay informed about the latest traffic laws and drive responsibly.