India-Kuwait Startup Ecosystem Conference – 8th December 2024
We are pleased to attach herewith the detailed programme for the India-Kuwait Startup Ecosystem Conference on Sunday, 8th December 2024.
Please register for the conference at https://forms.gle/M3pfQMRq9MjzKGzd8.
We look forward to welcoming you at the event.
Regards,
Commercial Section,
Embassy of India, Kuwait
The global initiators and developers are targeting Kuwait for the implementation of energy storage systems that will enhance the country’s electrical infrastructure. These systems are designed to reduce the risks of power shortages and scheduled outages, especially during the peak summer months, with capacities ranging from 400 to 500 megawatts or more, based on the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy's needs.
The electricity shortage crisis in Kuwait during the past summer has intensified the search for viable solutions. The Ministry of Electricity and Water has received numerous proposals for energy storage systems that can be manufactured and installed quickly, within two months. These systems offer an efficient response to prevent future energy shortages caused by rising consumption, the aging of power stations, and the limitations of relying on the fluctuating Gulf energy connection.
Energy storage systems are technologies that store excess electricity generated during periods of high production for later use during peak consumption. These systems provide a flexible, cost-effective solution to balance supply and demand, reduce energy wastage, and ensure stable electricity provision.
Energy storage systems provide several key benefits that will contribute to improving Kuwait's electrical grid:
With the increasing use of renewable energy, the electrical grid faces greater challenges in maintaining stability due to fluctuations in supply. Energy storage systems help regulate these fluctuations, ensuring the stability of the grid, and maintaining optimal frequency and voltage levels.
Global investors and developers have recognized the potential of Kuwait as a key market for energy storage solutions. Initiatives include proposals for the implementation of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), which are critical for future energy security. These systems will ensure grid stability, reduce operational costs, and allow Kuwait to transition to a more sustainable and reliable energy infrastructure.
The energy storage systems presented to Kuwait are seen as a crucial step towards achieving energy security and sustainability. By enhancing the country’s ability to meet demand during peak times and providing backup during emergency situations, energy storage is an investment in Kuwait’s long-term electricity reliability and environmental goals.
Energy storage technologies have become a cornerstone of modern energy systems. They not only enhance the operational efficiency of the electrical grid but also support the integration of renewable energy, reduce costs, and ensure supply reliability. As Kuwait faces increasing electricity demand, these systems represent a strategic solution to ensure a stable, sustainable, and secure energy future.
The Ministry of Interior has announced a significant update in its services by suspending the online appointment booking for driving tests on its official website. Effective Wednesday, all bookings will now be managed exclusively through the unified government electronic services application, Sahel. This update is accessible via the appointments section on the Meta platform.
In its official statement, the Ministry highlighted that this transition aligns with its commitment to modernizing and digitizing the traffic system. By leveraging the Sahel app, the Ministry aims to provide a seamless experience, reducing the time and effort required for citizens and residents to book and manage their driving test appointments.
This move is part of the Kuwaiti government’s broader initiative to digitize public services. By integrating key services like traffic appointments into centralized platforms such as Sahel, Kuwait continues to foster a streamlined and efficient system, benefiting both residents and governmental agencies.
The Ministry of Justice has unveiled a new service for users of the unified government electronic services app, 'Sahel', allowing easy access to payment receipt inquiries. The announcement was made on Monday through the ministry's official social media platform (X).
The newly launched feature enables users to view all electronic payment receipts for transactions completed via the 'Sahel' app or the Ministry of Justice’s electronic services portal. Users can specify a time period for their inquiry, making the process more user-centric and efficient.
This initiative is part of the broader "Inquiry Services" offered by the Ministry of Justice, emphasizing its commitment to leveraging technology to streamline public access to government services.
The Ministry reiterated its ongoing efforts to promote digital transformation. By offering innovative solutions like the payment receipts inquiry service, the ministry seeks to enhance its role in providing seamless and efficient services to the public.
The 'Sahel' app is a cornerstone of Kuwait's digital strategy, connecting citizens and residents with essential government services. With this addition, users gain greater convenience, saving time and effort while accessing crucial information.
On Sunday, Indian passengers traveling from Mumbai to Manchester via Gulf Air found themselves stranded at Kuwait Airport for over 13 hours due to an emergency landing. The flight, which made a stopover in Bahrain, was forced to land back in Kuwait just two hours after departure due to unforeseen circumstances.
Around 60 passengers, primarily Indian nationals, were left in limbo without adequate support from the airline during the delay. As the hours passed, frustrations mounted, and several passengers were seen arguing with airport authorities. Reports on social media highlighted claims of unequal treatment, as Gulf Air allegedly offered accommodation only to EU, UK, and American citizens, leaving Indian passengers without assistance.
Upon learning of the situation, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait swiftly intervened to help the stranded passengers. A team of embassy officials arrived at the airport to coordinate with the airline and ensure the passengers' comfort. The embassy confirmed that passengers had been provided access to two airport lounges, as no hotel accommodations were available due to the ongoing GCC Summit, which had made it difficult for the Indians to obtain entry visas.
With the public holiday in Kuwait, the stranded passengers were unable to shift to hotels, adding to their distress. However, after continuous efforts by the embassy, the airline agreed to provide lounge access, ensuring that passengers were taken care of during the lengthy wait. Embassy officials also communicated with Gulf Air, confirming that the flight to Manchester was scheduled to depart at 3:30 AM on December 2nd.
The flight finally departed from Kuwait Airport at 4:34 AM on December 2nd, carrying the Indian nationals and other passengers to Manchester. The Indian Embassy team remained on the ground until the flight took off, ensuring that all stranded passengers were accounted for.
On Sunday, Indian passengers traveling from Mumbai to Manchester via Gulf Air found themselves stranded at Kuwait Airport for over 13 hours due to an emergency landing. The flight, which made a stopover in Bahrain, was forced to land back in Kuwait just two hours after departure due to unforeseen circumstances.
Around 60 passengers, primarily Indian nationals, were left in limbo without adequate support from the airline during the delay. As the hours passed, frustrations mounted, and several passengers were seen arguing with airport authorities. Reports on social media highlighted claims of unequal treatment, as Gulf Air allegedly offered accommodation only to EU, UK, and American citizens, leaving Indian passengers without assistance.
Upon learning of the situation, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait swiftly intervened to help the stranded passengers. A team of embassy officials arrived at the airport to coordinate with the airline and ensure the passengers' comfort. The embassy confirmed that passengers had been provided access to two airport lounges, as no hotel accommodations were available due to the ongoing GCC Summit, which had made it difficult for the Indians to obtain entry visas.
With the public holiday in Kuwait, the stranded passengers were unable to shift to hotels, adding to their distress. However, after continuous efforts by the embassy, the airline agreed to provide lounge access, ensuring that passengers were taken care of during the lengthy wait. Embassy officials also communicated with Gulf Air, confirming that the flight to Manchester was scheduled to depart at 3:30 AM on December 2nd.
The flight finally departed from Kuwait Airport at 4:34 AM on December 2nd, carrying the Indian nationals and other passengers to Manchester. The Indian Embassy team remained on the ground until the flight took off, ensuring that all stranded passengers were accounted for.
The Ministry of Interior has officially announced the reopening of all roads that were temporarily closed during the 45th Gulf Summit. In a statement, the Ministry expressed its appreciation to citizens and residents for their understanding and cooperation during the period of road closures, ensuring a smooth flow of the event.
As part of the security measures for the 45th Gulf Summit, several roads in Kuwait were temporarily closed to ensure the safety and security of the event. These closures were necessary to manage traffic and protect attendees during the high-profile summit.
The Ministry thanked citizens and residents for their commitment to the instructions during the closure period. The public's cooperation played a significant role in minimizing disruption and ensuring the success of the summit's security measures.
With the conclusion of the summit, all previously closed roads have now been reopened, allowing for the return of normal traffic flow across the city. The Ministry encourages residents to remain attentive to any potential temporary changes in road access for future events.
The Ministry of Interior continues to monitor road conditions and traffic patterns to improve the overall transportation network in Kuwait. Efforts are underway to enhance traffic management during major events to ensure safety and convenience for everyone.
The Ministry of Interior has announced temporary closures on the Arabian Gulf Road tomorrow morning, in preparation for the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon 2024. These closures will affect traffic along certain sections of the road on Saturday, December 2, 2024, during the marathon event.
From 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM, the section of the Arabian Gulf Road between Souq Sharq and the Sheikh Jaber Cultural Center will be closed to traffic in both directions. Motorists are advised to take alternate routes during this time.
In addition to the full closure between Souq Sharq and Sheikh Jaber Cultural Center, a one-way closure will also take place between Green Island and Souq Sharq. This section will be closed from 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM, in line with the marathon's route.
The Ministry urges the public, especially drivers, to follow traffic regulations during the closure period. Alternative routes will be clearly marked to help avoid congestion. For emergencies or additional assistance, motorists are encouraged to call the emergency hotline 112.
Amiri Decree 114/2024, issued on Thursday, introduces significant reforms to Kuwait's foreign residency laws. This decree, consisting of 36 articles across seven chapters, updates the previous decree 17/1959, which had been in effect for over six decades. These changes aim to address gaps in the law and respond to evolving challenges in residency and immigration policies in Kuwait.
The first chapter of the decree focuses on the entry of foreigners into Kuwait. The law specifies that all foreign nationals must possess a valid passport or equivalent documentation issued by their home country for entry and exit. However, GCC citizens are exempted from the passport requirement and may use personal identification cards based on agreements between Kuwait and other GCC countries.
Additionally, foreigners are required to enter and exit Kuwait through designated ports specified by the Ministry of Interior.
Chapter two establishes rules for residency for foreign-born children in Kuwait. It mandates that parents must notify the authorities within four months of their child’s birth, submitting the child's passport or travel documentation to obtain residency papers or a leave deadline.
The third chapter focuses on residency permits for foreigners. To reside in Kuwait, non-Kuwaiti individuals must apply for residency permits from the Ministry of Interior. Kuwaiti citizens may also request residency permits for their non-Kuwaiti spouses and children, with certain exceptions outlined in previous laws, such as for women who acquire citizenship through marriage.
Moreover, foreigners on visit visas must depart Kuwait within three months unless they secure residency.
Chapter four lays out penalties for residency trafficking and related crimes. The decree imposes severe penalties for individuals involved in illegal residency practices, reinforcing Kuwait's stance against trafficking in residency permits.
The fifth chapter addresses the deportation and eviction of foreigners. The Minister of Interior is empowered to order the deportation of any foreigner, even if they hold a valid residence permit, under specific circumstances. Foreigners subject to deportation can be detained for up to 30 days, with the possibility of extension.
Employers are required to bear the cost of deportation for employees and those they harbor, reinforcing accountability for the presence of foreigners in Kuwait.
Chapter six details the penalties for violating residency laws. The Public Prosecution has exclusive authority to investigate and prosecute those involved in residency trafficking. The chapter also includes provisions for reconciling minor violations, where reconciliation may be permitted based on specific conditions.
Chapter seven includes various general provisions and exceptions. Certain individuals are exempt from the law, such as heads of state, diplomats, and those holding political or diplomatic passports, depending on reciprocal agreements. The chapter also outlines the continuation of regulations under Amiri Decree No. 17/1959 until the new regulations are implemented within six months.
According to informed sources from the Ministry of Public Works, emergency teams have been deployed across all six governorates to manage the impact of the current rainfall. The Ministry is working closely with the Public Authority for Roads and Transportation (PART) to ensure swift action.
The sources confirmed that there have been no significant water accumulations or flooding on internal roads or expressways that could disrupt traffic. The rainfall has remained within the capacity of the ministry’s drainage network, allowing for effective management of water flow.
The Ministry of Public Works continues to coordinate with other government agencies to address any challenges posed by rainwater accumulation. The Ministry remains proactive by monitoring weather forecasts from the Meteorological Department to ensure continuous readiness for future weather conditions.
The Ministry urges the public to report any water accumulation or related issues by contacting the Ministry’s hotline at 150 or through WhatsApp for quick resolution.
In a related development, the Kuwait Fire Force (KFF) is on high alert, ready to respond to any emergencies reported to its operations room concerning the rainfall. The KFF has deployed teams across various fire stations to ensure quick response to potential emergencies.
In addition, security personnel, patrol teams, and rescue teams have been deployed to manage traffic flow and ensure the safety of the public during the ongoing weather conditions. The coordinated efforts aim to mitigate any possible disruptions caused by the rainfall.
The Kuwait Army has announced that the Ghaith Task Force is on standby, fully prepared to provide logistical and humanitarian support in response to the heavy rainfall and current weather conditions. This task force is ready to assist with any necessary operations.
Fraudsters are increasingly using sophisticated tactics to deceive individuals into unknowingly opening electronic bank accounts for fraudulent activities, including money laundering.
The fraudsters primarily target students and individuals with limited awareness of financial security measures, exploiting their lack of knowledge to open illicit accounts.
Hackers are using authentication services to gain access to victims’ data and exploit their accounts for criminal purposes. Victims are unaware that their accounts are being used for money laundering.
WhatsApp scams are on the rise, where fraudsters hack accounts and exploit contacts by sending fraudulent payment requests or using personal data for extortion.
The Central Bank of Kuwait, in collaboration with local banks and the Kuwait Banking Association, is taking steps to combat financial fraud and raise awareness among the public.
To prevent such scams, authorities are implementing stricter security measures and launching awareness campaigns to educate the public on how to avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
Information pertaining to registration of participants for the upcoming 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas at Bhubaneswar in Odisha from January 08-10, 2025.
1. Discount on Group registrations have been offered by Ministry for the 18th PBD in the website. 05-50 Members of any group can register at the website and avail 25% group discount. However, each one of them needs to upload his/her passport details so that the same can be verified by the Security Agencies. The group will only be registered after the payment on the full registration fees applicable to the group based on its numbers.
2. It is advisable to register and book accommodation simultaneously on the PBD website so as to avoid last minute hiccups on the choice of available accommodations.
3. The early bird discount is ongoing and is valid up to November 27, 2024. This offers a discount of 20% to individual registrations of participants.
4. Ministry has not yet decided on the date of closure of registrations.
5. It is however hereby clarified that all invitees have to bear the cost of registrations, accommodations, transport and air tickets and all other expenses for themselves and their relatives etc. for participating in the event.
The regulations are designed to enforce strict control over expatriate residency and impose severe penalties for violations related to residency and employment practices.
This law underscores Kuwait’s commitment to regulating expatriate residency and upholding national security and public order. Its comprehensive provisions are designed to prevent system abuse and protect both the rights of residents and the integrity of the country’s legal framework.
Kuwait has achieved an impressive third-place ranking globally and in the Arab world for mobile internet speed, as per the October 2024 Speed Test Global Index. With an average speed of 258.51 Mbps, Kuwait emerges as a global leader in mobile connectivity, reflecting significant advancements in its telecommunications infrastructure.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) leads both globally and regionally, delivering an exceptional average speed of 428.53 Mbps. Qatar secures the second position worldwide and regionally with 356.7 Mbps, reinforcing the Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) dominance in mobile internet excellence.
The GCC countries have collectively demonstrated strong performances, solidifying their status as hubs of technological innovation:
These results underline the GCC's commitment to fostering high-speed internet services through substantial investments in digital infrastructure.
Outside the GCC, several Arab nations also made notable strides in the index:
Kuwait's global ranking highlights its dedication to building state-of-the-art telecommunications infrastructure and ensuring high-speed mobile internet access for residents and businesses. This progress not only enhances daily connectivity but also positions Kuwait and the broader GCC region as leaders in the global digital landscape.
The GCC’s strong showing underscores its ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology and digital transformation. By fostering innovation, the region boosts economic growth, supports smart city development, and enhances the quality of life for its residents.
The Kuwaiti Council of Ministers, during its session on November 12, approved a draft decree law addressing the residency of foreigners in Kuwait. The new legislation introduces severe penalties for those involved in residency trafficking and violations, including prison sentences of up to five years and fines amounting to 10,000 Kuwaiti dinars.
The Ministry of Interior has recently issued an alert about advertisements from unverified sources that promise huge discounts on products and services. These ads may contain malware that could compromise users' devices and personal information.
To ensure a secure online shopping experience, the Ministry strongly advises consumers to download shopping apps only from official sources. Stick to reputable app stores linked to Android and iOS platforms to avoid malicious software that can harm your device.
Consumers are also urged to verify that online purchase links are legitimate and not part of counterfeit sites pretending to be trusted retailers. Always check the website’s URL and security certifications before making a purchase.
Another critical warning issued by the Ministry is to avoid conducting financial transactions over public Wi-Fi networks. These networks are often vulnerable to hacking attempts, putting your sensitive information at risk. It is recommended to use secure, private networks when making payments online.
By following these simple precautions, shoppers can significantly reduce their chances of falling victim to online scams and ensure a safer, more secure shopping experience.
The MY KUWAIT ID application offers users varying levels of verification to ensure the security of their personal data. Each level provides access to different features, depending on the chosen registration method.
The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) defines three levels of verification within the MY KUWAIT ID app: Medium, High, and Verified. Each level is designed to meet different security and functionality standards. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Medium verification involves registering by manually entering personal data. This level offers basic functionality for users.
High verification is the most commonly used method and requires scanning your Civil ID using NFC (Near Field Communication) technology.
The Verified level involves registering through self-service devices for the highest level of security and access to advanced features.
The Public Authority for Manpower has announced a significant change to the regulations regarding the transfer of workers within the small and medium enterprises (SME) sector. The required period for transferring workers within this sector has been reduced from three years to just one year. However, this change is conditional upon the approval of the worker’s sponsor.
One crucial clarification that came with the new update is that transfers from the SME sector to the private sector are still not permissible. This decision aims to prevent workers from moving between sectors without proper adherence to regulations. The Public Authority for Manpower emphasized the importance of maintaining balance and ensuring that transfers within the SME sector itself are carried out within the revised one-year time frame.
The modification in transfer regulations is designed to address some of the operational challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses. Many SMEs experience difficulties due to underperforming projects or the inability to fully utilize their workforce. This change in the transfer period is expected to give businesses more flexibility in managing their staff and improve overall productivity.
By reducing the transfer period to just one year, the Public Authority for Manpower is providing SMEs with more agility in responding to business needs. Companies can now transfer workers to different roles within the sector more quickly, enabling them to adapt to changing market conditions or operational demands. Additionally, workers benefit from the ability to find more suitable roles within the sector if their current positions become redundant or unfit.
While the new regulations provide short-term relief, it remains to be seen how they will impact the long-term growth and stability of the SME sector in Kuwait. Experts suggest that this change could enhance workforce mobility and contribute to a more dynamic labor market in the country, potentially benefiting both businesses and workers alike.
Information Pertaining to Registration of Participants for the upcoming 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas at Bhubaneswar in Odisha from January 08-10, 2025.
1. Discount on Group registrations have been offered by Ministry for the 18th PBD in the website. 05-50 Members of any group can register at the website and avail 25% group discount. However, each one of them needs to upload his/her passport details so that the same can be verified by the Security Agencies. The group will only be registered after the payment on the full registration fees applicable to the group based on its numbers.
2. It is advisable to register and book accommodation simultaneously on the PBD website so as to avoid last minute hiccups on the choice of available accommodations.
3. The early bird discount is ongoing and is valid up to November 27, 2024. This offers a discount of 20% to individual registrations of participants.
4. Ministry has not yet decided on the date of closure of registrations.
5. It is however hereby clarified that all invitees have to bear the cost of registrations, accommodations, transport and air tickets and all other expenses for themselves and their relatives etc. for participating in the event.
Awareness Session On Kuwait Labour Laws - Private/Domestic
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