Real estate wealth is a vital component of Kuwait’s economy, prompting significant legislative focus on its regulation. The Real Estate Registration Law No. 5 of 1959 laid the groundwork for property ownership and transfer, followed by the Land Registry System Law No. 21 of 2019. Additionally, the Real Estate Rental Law No. 35 of 1978 governs the benefits derived from real estate wealth and has undergone several amendments to protect the interests of property owners and tenants alike.

The Importance of Balanced Regulations

These legislative changes aim to prevent exploitation of tenants by property owners, ensuring that rental prices remain within reasonable limits. High rental costs can lead to a situation where many residents struggle to afford housing, threatening social peace and security. This issue undermines the constitutional principles of justice, freedom, and equality, as outlined in Article 7 of the Kuwaiti Constitution.

Ensuring Human Dignity Through Housing

A fundamental guarantee for preserving human dignity is the right to adequate shelter. Kuwaiti legislators prioritize this concern, emphasizing justice and compassion in laws governing landlord-tenant relationships. By enacting fair regulations, they aim to foster a harmonious society that meets the housing needs of its citizens.

Legislative Amendments to Protect the Real Estate Sector

The Kuwaiti legislature has actively amended the Real Estate Rental Law to ensure the stability of the real estate sector and encourage construction. As the population grows, there is an increasing demand for diverse real estate options, whether for investment or residential purposes.

Changes to Rent Collection Procedures

To facilitate timely rent collection, the legislature has introduced amendments, including changes to Article 26 of the Real Estate Rental Law. This article states that an appeal against a rental judgment is only accepted if the rent determined by the court is deposited when submitting the appeal application. Furthermore, Article 26 'bis' allows landlords to pursue a payment order for due rent, streamlining the process for claiming their rights without lengthy lawsuits.

Recent Legislative Developments: Decree-Law No. 95 of 2024

In a proactive move, the Kuwaiti legislature issued Decree-Law No. 95 of 2024, amending provisions of the Real Estate Rental Law. This decree introduces Article 11 bis, allowing both landlords and tenants to authenticate lease contracts, rendering them enforceable for rent collection upon proper notification and proof of non-payment. This ensures that legal measures can be pursued efficiently through the competent Execution Department.

Streamlining the Court Process

Moreover, the decree modifies the jurisdiction for hearing rental appeals. The new paragraph added to Article 26 states that rental appeal rulings are to be handled by the Court of First Instance acting as an appellate body. Article 2 further mandates the referral of ongoing cases before the Court of Appeal to the Court of First Instance, easing the burden of prolonged litigation and ensuring timely rent collection.

These legislative measures reflect Kuwait’s commitment to maintaining a stable and equitable real estate market. By balancing the rights of landlords and tenants, the government aims to foster a secure environment for all citizens, ensuring that housing remains accessible while protecting property owners' rights.

The Ministry of Commerce has issued a stern warning to the public regarding a significant increase in fraud and scam attempts occurring through platforms such as WhatsApp, suspicious emails, and unreliable websites. Reports from Al-Seyassah highlight a recent surge in fraudulent activities, wherein scammers exploit unregistered numbers, fake companies, and dubious online platforms to deceive consumers.

Stay Cautious: Protect Your Personal Information

The Ministry strongly urged citizens and residents to remain cautious and avoid sharing any personal or banking information through text messages or WhatsApp with unverified parties. They emphasized the importance of not clicking on links from unknown numbers or unfamiliar sources, as these could lead to malicious websites.

Consumers should ensure that businesses are registered and approved by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry before proceeding with any transactions. This verification step is crucial to safeguard personal and financial information.

Beware of Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers

Additionally, the Ministry cautioned against being lured in by attractive offers that seem too good to be true. Scammers often use unrealistic deals to entice unsuspecting victims. Increased awareness and vigilance are necessary as these fraudulent tactics become more sophisticated.

Take Precautionary Measures

To protect themselves from falling victim to scams, individuals are encouraged to:

• Verify the legitimacy of companies before engaging with them.
• Avoid sharing sensitive information through unverified channels.
• Research offers thoroughly to identify any red flags.

The Ministry's proactive approach calls for increased consumer awareness to combat these deceptive practices effectively.

The Ministry of Commerce urges everyone to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to protect themselves from scams. By staying informed and cautious, consumers can help reduce the risk of falling victim to fraudulent activities.

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense and Interior, Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, has announced significant amendments to the provisions of Ministerial Resolution No. 81/1976, pertaining to the executive regulations of the Traffic Law. This decision is expected to enhance the regulatory framework governing driving licenses and vehicle inspections in Kuwait.

Key Changes to Driving License Validity

The following changes have been made to the validity periods of various driving licenses:

• Private Driving License: A private driving license for operating private cars with a maximum of seven passengers, transport vehicles with a load capacity of up to two tons, and taxis will be valid for 15 years for Kuwaitis and GCC nationals. For non-Kuwaitis, the validity is set at three years, while for Bedouns, it will depend on the validity of their security card.
• General Driving License Category ‘A’: This license, which permits the driving of passenger transport vehicles with more than 25 passengers, public transport vehicles, transport vehicles, locomotives, trailers, and semi-trailers exceeding eight tons, as well as vehicles transporting hazardous materials, is valid for 10 years for Kuwaitis and GCC nationals. The license is valid for three years for non-Kuwaitis, with Bedouns’ validity linked to their security card status.
• General Driving License Category ‘B’: This category allows driving passenger transport vehicles with more than seven and up to 25 passengers, public transport vehicles, and transport vehicles with capacities ranging from two to eight tons. The validity periods are similar to Category ‘A’.
• Restriction on License Use: Holders of a General Driving License Category ‘B’ are not permitted to operate vehicles classified under Category ‘A’.
• Pre-existing Licenses: Licenses issued prior to the new amendments will remain valid until their original expiry dates.

Motorcycle License and Other Regulations

The amendments also include provisions for motorcycle licenses:

• Motorcycle Driving License Category ‘A’: This license is now valid for all types of motorcycles and permits holders to teach others how to drive motorcycles.

Additionally, the General Traffic Department (GTD) has updated policies for expatriates, increasing the validity of their driving licenses from one year to three years, contingent upon meeting legal conditions. Importantly, drivers are now required to use the ‘Kuwait Mobile ID’ application, eliminating the need for physical license printing.

Vehicle Inspection Schedule Changes

New regulations regarding the technical inspection of vehicles have also been introduced:

• Newly purchased vehicles and motorcycles will undergo their first technical inspection three years after purchase, followed by inspections every three years after the first, totaling eight years.
• Private transport vehicles will now require technical inspections three years after the first inspection, as opposed to the previous two-year interval.

The First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, confirmed that the new residency law is currently being reviewed by the Legal Committee and is expected to be approved soon. During his visit to Khaitan, where an extensive security campaign was underway, the minister stated, “Visit visas for expatriates are open but governed by specific terms and conditions. Strict legal measures will be applied against those who violate these conditions.” He further emphasized that the security campaigns are actively ongoing in all regions of the country, targeting wanted individuals, violators, and outlaws, with a focus on reducing violations of the residency law.

Security and Traffic Campaigns in Khaitan

The Ministry of Interior conducted an intensive security and traffic campaign in Khaitan under the supervision of Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef. This campaign involved officers from various departments, including the General Traffic Department, the General Department of Rescue Police, and the Public Security Sector, with support from the Special Security Forces and the participation of the Women’s Police.

The campaign led to significant results, including:

• Issuance of 2,831 traffic citations
• Arrest of 34 individuals, including absconders and those with outstanding arrest warrants
• Seizure of 22 wanted vehicles
• Detention of 17 violators of residency and labor laws
• Confiscation of three vehicles and discovery of two narcotic possession cases

The ministry also stressed the importance of following the government's biometric procedures, which apply to all residents and citizens. It warned that individuals who have not completed these procedures will face suspension of banking and government transactions until compliance is met.

Security Efforts Extend to Farwaniya

In a similar campaign in Farwaniya, under the direct supervision of Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, officers from the Traffic, Rescue, Public Security, Special Forces, and Women’s Police sectors participated. This campaign resulted in:

• Issuance of 2,833 traffic citations
• Arrest of nine individuals without identification documents
• Detention of 23 violators of residency and labor laws
• Apprehension of 16 absconders
• Seizure of 11 wanted vehicles, six vehicles, and three motorcycles
• Confiscation of three individuals in drug-related cases

The Ministry of Interior affirmed its continued commitment to enhancing security and public order across the country through these campaigns. Additionally, it reiterated its intent to continue arresting violators and maintaining public safety.

Call for Compliance with Biometric Procedures

The ministry reiterated the importance of completing biometric procedures as part of the national security plan. Residents and citizens are urged to comply as soon as possible to avoid disruptions in banking and government services. The ministry confirmed that failure to comply would result in the suspension of all relevant transactions until the process is completed.

The Ministry of Information in Kuwait has announced a two-week extension for employees to upload their post-secondary academic certificates, originally due by September 30. This decision is aimed at easing the examination process for both citizens and expatriates.

Steps for Uploading Academic Certificates

Employees are required to follow these steps to submit their academic qualifications:

1. Access the Official Website: Navigate to the certificate examination page on the Ministry’s official website.
2. Authenticate Identity: Use the Kuwait Mobile ID application for identity verification.
3. Upload Required Documents:
   • For qualifications from Kuwaiti institutions, upload a photocopy of the certificate.
   • For degrees obtained abroad, upload both the academic credentials and the equivalency certificate issued by the Ministry of Higher Education.

The Ministry has warned that employees failing to meet this new deadline will be held responsible for any repercussions related to the qualification process.

Integration of AI in Kuwait's Education System

In another development, the Ministry of Education has approved an initiative from the University of California, Berkeley, focused on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into Kuwait's education and training frameworks. This initiative includes establishing AI laboratories in secondary schools nationwide.

Meeting Highlights

Kuwaiti Ambassador to the United States, Sheikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah, recently met with Berkeley faculty to discuss the initiative. During this meeting, Mona Salem, acting General Technical Supervisor for Computers, presented a report highlighting the ministry's commitment to developing youth skills in AI.

Program Objectives

The proposed programs will cover:

• Foundational AI concepts
• Enhancing creativity through AI
• Using AI as an educational tool
• Fostering research and innovation in AI

This collaboration aims to equip students with essential skills for a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Salem proposed forming a joint working group with representatives from both the ministry and the university. This group will be responsible for developing a detailed implementation plan, assessing student needs, and allocating resources such as infrastructure, technology, and funding. Continuous evaluation will ensure the effectiveness of these programs.

On Thursday, Musab Al-Mulla, Chairman of the Union of Consumer Cooperative Societies, announced that the union has been officially designated as the liaison officer and coordinator with several government agencies to effectively address potential emergency situations in light of recent events in the region. Al-Mulla reassured the public that the strategic stock of goods remains adequate.

Key Details of the Announcement

Meeting with Government Officials

The announcement was made during a press statement following Al-Mulla's meeting with Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, the Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs. During their discussion, they reviewed the current status of commodity and food stocks stored in the warehouses of cooperative societies.

Role as Liaison Officer

Al-Mulla emphasized that the union "will serve as a liaison officer in coordination with the General Directorate of Civil Defense and the General Fire Force to monitor developments of crises in the region in case of any emergency." This proactive measure aims to ensure that the community remains informed and prepared for any potential challenges.

Strategic Stock of Goods

Al-Mulla reassured the public that the strategic stock of goods is sufficient to meet the needs of consumers. This statement aims to alleviate concerns over shortages and ensure that residents can access necessary supplies during uncertain times.

The Union of Consumer Cooperative Societies’ role as a liaison officer with various government agencies is a crucial step in maintaining public safety and preparedness. By coordinating efforts with civil defense and fire services, the union aims to effectively monitor any emergency situations that may arise in the region

Paying your traffic fines in Kuwait has never been easier, thanks to the convenience of the Sahel app. The Ministry of Interior has streamlined the process, allowing residents to manage their fines quickly and efficiently. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use the Sahel app to check and pay your traffic violations in just a few minutes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Pay Traffic Fines Using Sahel App

1. Open the Sahel App

Download and open the Sahel app from your mobile device. If you haven’t registered yet, follow the instructions to create an account. Ensure your profile is complete with all the necessary personal details.

2. Access the Ministry of Interior Section

Once logged in, navigate to your profile and click on Ministry of Interior. This section provides access to various government services, including traffic violations.

3. Check for Traffic Violations

In the Ministry of Interior section, you will find an option labeled Traffic Violations. Click on this to check if you have any pending violations. You can search for violations using the violation number, which can be found on your traffic tickets.

4. Select Multiple Violations

If you have more than one violation, Sahel allows you to select multiple tickets at a time. Simply click on each violation number you wish to pay. You can select up to 20 tickets in one go, making it convenient to clear multiple fines at once.

5. Proceed to Payment

After selecting the tickets, click Next to proceed to the payment screen. Here, you will be prompted to enter your payment details. Sahel supports various payment methods, ensuring a secure and easy process.

6. Confirm Your Payment

Once you've entered your payment details, click Next to finalize the transaction. You will receive a confirmation of your payment, both on the screen and in the Notifications section of the app.

7. Check Payment Confirmation

After completing the payment, you can view the confirmation in your app notifications. This will serve as proof that your fines have been paid.

Benefits of Using the Sahel App for Traffic Fine Payments

• Quick and Convenient: No need to visit traffic offices or wait in long queues.
• Multiple Violations: You can pay up to 20 traffic violations at once, saving time and effort.
• Secure Payment Gateway: The app offers secure payment methods to ensure your transaction is safe.
• Instant Confirmation: Receive immediate confirmation of payment through app notifications.

Tips for a Seamless Experience

• Keep your payment method ready before starting the process to save time.
• Ensure your Sahel app is updated to the latest version for a smooth experience.
• If you encounter any issues, you can contact the Ministry of Interior for support through the Sahel app.

By following these simple steps, you can pay your traffic fines quickly and easily using the Sahel app, ensuring compliance with Kuwaiti traffic laws without the hassle.

Kuwait’s consumer price index (CPI), which measures inflation, increased by 2.92% annually last August, as reported by the Kuwait Central Statistical Bureau (KCSB). In a statement to KUNA on Wednesday, the bureau noted a monthly rise of 0.97% compared to July, highlighting the contributing factors to this inflationary trend.

 Key Contributors to Inflation

• Food and Beverages: The price index for this group rose by 5.96% compared to the same month last year.
• Clothing: The CPI for clothing increased by 5.76%.
• Housing Services: Housing services saw a modest increase of 0.91%.
• Furniture: Prices in this category climbed by 3.17%.
• Health: The health index rose by 0.49% year-on-year.

 Other Notable Increases

• Transportation: Increased by 2.37% annually.
• Communications: Also rose by 2.37% year-on-year.
• Culture and Entertainment: Increased by 2.19%.
• Education: Saw a rise of 0.96%.
• Restaurants and Hotels: Climbed by 2.52% in August.

Excluding Food and Beverages

The consumer price index (CPI), excluding food and beverages, recorded a year-on-year increase of 2.35% in August. The CPI serves as a critical measurement for assessing price changes on both a monthly and annual basis, making it an essential indicator for economic growth and recession.

The Ministry of Interior has reported that 47,445 Kuwaiti citizens failed to complete their biometric fingerprinting before the deadline on September 30th, leading to immediate consequences for many. This mandatory requirement is linked to various essential services, including government and banking transactions, and non-compliance has triggered a suspension of services for affected individuals.

Bank Customers Face Service Disruptions

In addition to government services, banking sources revealed that around 35,000 bank customers received notifications informing them that their banking transactions and e-services had been suspended due to the incomplete civil ID and biometric fingerprinting requirements. The suspension primarily affects customers whose civil IDs are not updated with biometric data, a process now essential for accessing digital and electronic banking services in Kuwait.

Steps to Resume Government and Banking Transactions

The Ministry of Interior reassured citizens that 928,684 Kuwaitis had successfully completed the biometric fingerprinting process before the deadline. However, those whose transactions are suspended can visit the Personal Investigation Departments under the General Department of Criminal Evidence in their respective governorates to complete the biometric process. Once done, the suspension will be lifted automatically, allowing citizens to resume their normal government and banking activities.

Discrepancies in the Numbers of Affected Citizens

Banking and government sources highlighted a discrepancy of approximately 12,445 individuals between the Ministry’s figures and the number of bank customers affected. This difference might be due to various reasons, such as elderly citizens who are exempt from banking services, or those without active bank accounts. Moreover, some customers hold accounts with multiple banks and might have received notifications from more than one institution, reducing the actual number of impacted citizens below 35,000.

Impact on Kuwait’s Banking System

Kuwait's banking system has implemented stringent measures to ensure compliance with biometric requirements, which are now integral to civil ID validity. By linking the completion of biometric fingerprinting with access to electronic and digital services, the system aims to enhance the security and efficiency of transactions. Customers are advised to complete the necessary procedures promptly to avoid further disruptions.

Dr. Safaa Zaman, head of the Kuwait Association for Information Security (KAIS), has raised concerns regarding the surge in advertisements, particularly for food products, that offer enticing discounts and request payment through bank links. These advertisements have become a significant source of financial fraud, with numerous victims falling prey to scams.

The Rise of Financial Fraud

Dr. Zaman explained that the increase in fraudulent advertisements stems from a common scheme designed to trap consumers. Fraudsters exploit the allure of discounts and promotions, leading individuals to click on deceptive links that compromise their personal financial information. Despite efforts by banks to implement secure transactions, many have struggled to effectively prevent fraud, resulting in substantial financial losses for the public.

Common Scams and Psychological Manipulation

The primary issue arises from individuals unwittingly sharing their financial information with unknown parties or clicking on fraudulent bank links. Dr. Zaman pointed out that scammers often leverage psychological tactics, enticing victims with promises of financial or in-kind prizes, job offers, or irresistible discounts. This manipulation significantly increases the risk of falling victim to financial fraud.

Recommendations for Individuals

To combat these fraudulent schemes, Dr. Zaman provided several key recommendations for individuals:

1. Scrutinize Offers: Carefully evaluate any product or offer before making financial transactions.
2. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest fraud techniques and alerts issued by relevant authorities.
3. Exercise Caution: Take time to consider options before providing personal or financial information through calls, texts, or links that appear to originate from government or commercial entities.
4. Report Suspicious Activity: Promptly report any suspicions of financial fraud to the appropriate security agencies and the financial institutions involved.
5. Verify Legitimacy: Always confirm the identity of parties requesting personal or financial data via informal communication channels, as these requests are often fraudulent.
6. Check Website Security: Before entering sensitive information on a website, ensure its reliability by checking the address bar for security indicators.

The Role of the State

Dr. Zaman emphasized that the state also plays a crucial role in addressing financial fraud. She suggested the following actions:

• Conduct Comprehensive Studies: Undertake detailed studies on fraud and scams to identify weaknesses and implement solutions using modern technologies.
• Establish Regulations: Develop regulations and laws to govern financial transactions while continuously amending legislation to keep pace with evolving fraud tactics.
• Educate the Public: Promote ongoing public education campaigns to raise awareness about the means of fraud and preventive measures.

As financial fraud continues to be a pressing issue, both individuals and the state must work collaboratively to combat this growing threat. By remaining vigilant and informed, consumers can better protect themselves from falling victim to deceptive schemes.

The Kuwait Gold and Jewellery Traders Union has officially denied rumors circulating about the closure of gold markets in Kuwait. Responding to images showing shops closed outside official working hours, the Union confirmed that these claims are false and part of a deliberate attempt to incite unrest and destabilize the country's security.

The Union stressed the need for authorities to take legal action against individuals responsible for spreading and promoting such misleading rumors, highlighting the importance of protecting public order and stability in Kuwait.

Starting November 3rd, 2024, Kuwait will implement updated regulations governing the transfer of workers from government contracts and projects to the private sector. The new rules, set by the Public Authority for Manpower, introduce specific conditions that must be met before workers can change their employment status.

The key conditions for the transfer process include:

Project Completion: The government contract or project must be officially terminated.

Confirmation Letter: The Public Authority for Manpower must receive an official letter confirming that the project has been completed and that there is no further need for the labor force.

Minimum Employment Period: Workers must have completed at least one year of employment with the project before applying for a transfer.

Employer Approval: Workers must obtain approval from their current employer before initiating the transfer.

Transfer Fee: An additional fee of 350 dinars will be charged for the transfer process.

These amendments aim to streamline labor mobility while ensuring that the transfer process aligns with project timelines and workforce needs.

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and Defense, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf, has confirmed that Kuwait’s new traffic law will be announced in the coming days, introducing harsher penalties for serious traffic violations. The law aims to protect road users from reckless drivers who pose significant risks to public safety.

Sheikh Fahad emphasized that while the new law focuses on stricter penalties for serious offenders, those who follow the rules will not face these severe consequences. The law targets violations such as speeding, running red lights, reckless driving, and other dangerous behaviors that threaten road safety.

On the sidelines of a security campaign he supervised in Hawally, Sheikh Fahad reiterated that Kuwait’s field security agencies are actively working around the clock to monitor traffic and residency law violations across all governorates. He stressed that the goal is to ensure safety by holding reckless drivers and lawbreakers accountable.

Key Provisions of the New Traffic Law

Major General Yousef Al-Khadda, Assistant Undersecretary for Traffic and Operations Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, highlighted some of the serious violations that will incur harsher penalties under the new law:

Speeding and running red lights

Parking in spaces designated for the disabled

Reckless driving

Failure to wear seat belts

Using a mobile phone while driving

To enforce these regulations, the General Traffic Department (GTD) has installed 252 new cameras across the country to capture violations like seat belt infractions and phone use while driving. These cameras will be fully operational within two months and are part of the 24/7 traffic control system aimed at improving road safety.

In conjunction with the law's introduction, the Public Relations and Security Media General Department will conduct a public awareness campaign to inform citizens and residents of the new rules and penalties.

Comprehensive Monitoring and Public Awareness

Kuwaiti authorities are taking a proactive approach by enforcing a stricter traffic law that will help deter dangerous driving behaviors and safeguard the lives of road users. The comprehensive monitoring system, coupled with increased public awareness, is expected to significantly reduce traffic violations and improve road safety across the country.

Kuwait has extended the validity of expatriates' driving licenses from 1 year to 3 years, following a new ministerial decision by the First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef.

This amendment to the Traffic Law allows expatriates to renew their licenses every 3 years. Renewals will now be done through the "My Kuwait Identity" mobile app, eliminating the need for paper documentation.

In a recent Gallup global safety survey, Kuwait has been classified as the safest country in the world for 2024. An impressive 99% of respondents reported feeling safe walking alone in the streets of Kuwait, surpassing other countries in the ranking. Singapore follows in second place with 94%, while Norway and Saudi Arabia both recorded 92%.

Top Scores on the Law and Order Index

Kuwait also achieved the highest score on the Law and Order Index, receiving 98 out of 100, reaffirming its position as one of the safest nations globally since 2019. The index assesses citizens' sense of personal security and their confidence in local law enforcement.

Travel Safety Index

In addition, Hellosafe has released its “Travel Safety Index,” rating countries based on 35 criteria, including societal violence, natural disasters, health infrastructure, and involvement in conflicts. According to this index, Europe stands out as the safest continent, with Iceland ranked the safest globally, followed by Singapore and Denmark. While Kuwait ranks highly in safety, Qatar also secured a top spot, placing 11th with 23.33 points.

Global Rankings and Safety Highlights

The Travel Safety Index and Gallup survey continue to position Kuwait as a top destination for safety, reassuring citizens and travelers alike. Kuwait’s commitment to security and law enforcement plays a pivotal role in maintaining this global recognition.

Kuwait's Subsidies Committee has announced that petrol and diesel prices will remain fixed from October 1 until the end of December 2024, as reported by Al-Seyassah Daily.

Current Fuel Prices:

91-octane (premium) gasoline: 85 fils

95-octane (special) gasoline: 105 fils

98-octane (ultra) gasoline: 205 fils

Diesel and kerosene: 115 fils

The decision to maintain these prices provides stability for consumers amid fluctuating global oil prices.

For years, expatriates living in Kuwait who do not understand Arabic have faced significant challenges when navigating government services. Much of this frustration stemmed from the fact that most essential services were available only in Arabic, especially with the increasing reliance on the Sahel app. From civil ID updates to residency renewals, expats had to manage everything through the app, which was exclusively in Arabic, making it difficult to access and understand.

However, there is great news for the expat community: the Sahel app is now available in English for both Android and iOS users, offering a long-awaited solution to this persistent problem. The launch of the English version has brought a wave of relief and joy to expatriates who have been struggling with the language barrier.

A Long-Awaited Solution for Non-Arabic Speakers

For years, expats who don’t speak Arabic have often found themselves relying on others to translate or guide them through the various procedures on the Sahel app. The language barrier caused delays, confusion, and often led to mistakes in completing important tasks. Everything from renewing residency permits, paying traffic fines, booking appointments, and updating civil ID details had to be done through the Sahel app, which became the cornerstone of accessing government services.

Yet, the absence of an English option added stress to what was already a complex and essential task. The expat community had been waiting for an English version of the app that would allow them to complete these tasks independently, without relying on others for assistance.

Sahel App English Version: A Game-Changer for Expats

With the launch of the Sahel app in English, expats are thrilled to finally have a user-friendly way to manage government services. The new version offers them the independence to access essential features like residency renewals, civil ID updates, paying government fines, and much more—all without the hurdle of the Arabic language.

Now, expats can log in, easily navigate through the app, and complete necessary procedures with confidence. This update marks a significant step toward making everyday processes smoother for the many expats who call Kuwait home.

Steps to Change the Sahel App to English (Available for Android and iOS)

To access the new English version of the Sahel app, follow these simple steps for both Android and iOS users:

• Update the App: Make sure you have the latest version of the Sahel app from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS).
• Login: Enter your credentials to access your account.
• Change Language:
  • Click on the three lines in the top left corner.
  • Select the globe icon (third option).
  • Choose English to switch the app’s language.

This simple update is already making a huge difference in how expatriates interact with the app and handle important government-related tasks.

English Version Now Available for iOS Users

The much-anticipated English version of the Sahel app is now also available for iPhone users. You can download the updated version from the Apple App Store to enjoy the same convenience and ease of access as Android users.

A Positive Reception from the Expat Community

The release of the English version has been met with widespread excitement and gratitude among the expat community. It is not just a technological update but a significant improvement that will transform the way non-Arabic speakers in Kuwait engage with government services. The barriers they once faced in accessing essential services have now been dramatically lowered.

With Kuwait’s growing expat population, this update is a long-awaited move that reflects the country’s commitment to providing better services for all its residents, regardless of language barriers.

For more information on using the Sahel app in English and other government services, visit Kuwait Local for regular updates and helpful guides!

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy (MEW) has announced essential maintenance work on several secondary transformer stations across all six governorates of Kuwait. This necessary maintenance is scheduled to begin tomorrow and will continue until October 5, resulting in temporary power outages for residents.

Details of the Maintenance Work

According to the ministry’s press statement, the maintenance is aimed at ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the power supply system. The scheduled work will affect various regions, and residents are encouraged to prepare for possible disruptions in their electricity service.

Timeline of the Maintenance

• Start Date: Tomorrow
• End Date: October 5

Impact on Residents

Residents are advised to take necessary precautions during this maintenance period. MEW is working to minimize inconveniences and will communicate any changes to the schedule through their official channels.

The Kuwaiti government is preparing to align gasoline prices with global market rates, targeting expatriates and visitors with a price hike, while ensuring citizens remain unaffected. According to an informed government source, this initiative aims to address the significant difference in population numbers between expatriates and citizens, as well as rising global fuel costs.

A government source disclosed to Al-Qabas that expatriates and visitors, whose numbers far exceed those of citizens, will face higher gasoline prices in the near future. "It is unreasonable for expatriates and visitors to enjoy gasoline at low prices when their numbers are double that of citizens," the source remarked.

The proposal is currently under review, with discussions on the exact percentage of the price increase still ongoing. Once finalized, the plan will be submitted to the Economic Affairs Committee for approval.

To protect citizens from any potential financial burden caused by the fuel price adjustment, the government is introducing a financial support program for fuel consumption. This initiative ensures that citizens will not feel the impact of the proposed gasoline price hike. The source confirmed that the government’s priority is to shield its citizens from any economic consequences arising from changes in fuel prices.

The government's plan to increase gasoline prices for expatriates comes as part of a broader effort to adjust local pricing in accordance with international market trends. This aligns with Kuwait’s economic objectives to manage subsidies while ensuring that essential resources like fuel are priced fairly for all residents.

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) has announced that it will suspend all Civil ID transactions and applications for individuals who have not completed their biometric fingerprint procedure. The deadline for compliance, set by the Ministry of Interior, is September 30, 2024.

PACI urges citizens and residents to ensure they complete the biometric fingerprint process before the deadline to avoid service interruptions. Failing to comply will result in the suspension of all Civil ID-related services.