In a major step to enhance financial transparency and protect customer rights, the Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) has issued updated instructions under its Bank Customer Protection Guide, introducing a series of reforms aimed at improving banking practices and promoting financial inclusion across society.

The CBK emphasized that these measures are part of its ongoing efforts to ensure that all segments of society benefit equitably from banking and financial services under clear and transparent regulations.

Faster Complaint Resolution and Enhanced Accountability

Among the most notable updates—set to be fully implemented by April 2026—is the reduction of the period for responding to customer complaints from 15 to 5 working days.

Banks are now required to develop performance indicators to measure customer satisfaction and the quality of complaint handling. These indicators must be submitted quarterly to each bank’s CEO, ensuring faster and more transparent resolution processes.

Clarity on Credit Card Renewal Fees

A long-standing point of confusion regarding credit card renewal fees—particularly for MasterCard and Visa cards offered free for the first year—has now been resolved.

The Central Bank has made clear that banks may not collect any fees or expenses on cards that were initially granted free of charge and cancelled within the stipulated free period.

Furthermore, banks must ensure that all promotional offers clearly outline the terms and conditions of “free” services, ensuring customers are fully aware of their rights before committing.

Mandatory Customer Consent for Card Renewals

The updated guide introduces a new rule requiring explicit customer consent for credit card renewals.

If a contract includes automatic renewal, the bank must notify the customer at least three months before the renewal date through approved communication channels.

The notice must also explain the cancellation process and disclose any renewal-related fees, such as annual or service charges. Customers retain the right to use their product or service until the end of the contractual period unless they choose to cancel it.

Transparent Information and Fair Pricing

Banks are now obligated to provide customers with a basic information document outlining key details about products or services—such as features, fees, obligations, and eligibility criteria—before signing any contract.

This measure is designed to help customers make informed financial decisions.

To enhance transparency further, the CBK has introduced a requirement for banks to disclose the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for all credit products. This will allow customers to compare offers and select the best rates, promoting greater competitiveness in the banking sector.

Additionally, the Annual Total Return (ATR) rate will be applied to deposits, enabling customers to identify the best savings rates and encouraging efficient use of surplus funds. Banks will also offer online calculators for financing products and credit cards, helping customers estimate appropriate installment levels based on income.

Special Provisions for Minors and People with Disabilities

The CBK has also issued new controls for dealing with minor clients, including requirements for notifying custodians when accounts are opened and granting them review rights. Banks are encouraged to develop age-appropriate products that improve financial literacy among younger customers.

For customers with special needs, banks must facilitate all transactions without requiring witnesses, unless specifically requested by the customer.

Financial institutions are also required to update their websites and digital platforms to comply with international accessibility standards.

The General Traffic Department has launched intensive field campaigns across various governorates to address traffic violations in front of hospitals, targeting vehicles that breach parking regulations.

The campaigns focused on prohibited and random parking violations that obstruct traffic flow, hinder emergency vehicles from reaching hospitals, and inconvenience visitors by blocking entrances, exits, and designated passageways — actions that clearly violate traffic laws.

As a result, several citations were issued, and a number of vehicles were impounded in accordance with Article 207 of the Executive Regulations of the Traffic Law, which allows for the seizure of vehicles causing traffic obstruction for up to two months.

The General Traffic Department affirmed that these campaigns will continue daily and intensively across all governorates as part of a comprehensive plan to enhance traffic discipline and ensure smooth traffic flow around hospitals. It also urged drivers to comply with parking regulations and use only designated spaces to safeguard public safety and convenience.

The Ministry of Interior reiterated its firm commitment to enforcing the law without exception, ensuring the safety of all road users, and promoting greater traffic awareness among all members of society.

The Embassy of India in Kuwait City has issued an important notice for Indian passport applicants. The announcement, made under the direction of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, was shared through official and media platforms including DD News, ANI News, Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), and Diaspora India Connect.

 Recently, Kuwait’s expatriate community has been rocked by sudden and unexpected family visit visa rejections for parents over the age of 60, prompting frustration and anxiety among families hoping to reunite with aging parents. The shift appears to have taken many by surprise, as dozens of long-planned applications have been rejected without explanation, leaving sponsors and their parents in limbo.

One expatriate, Kavita, shared her distress after reading an earlier response in the Arab Times about visa delays for the over-60 age group. She wrote: “Many of us had already applied online, informed our parents, and were eagerly preparing to welcome them to Kuwait. However, we are now facing unexpected online rejections, particularly for parents aged over 60 or 70 years of age”. She added that this sudden turn has brought “great disappointment and sadness” to families who had been looking forward to a long-awaited visit.

Another Arab Times reader, Mashariq, voiced similar concerns: “My friend’s parents’ visit visa was rejected purely because they are above 60 years. Is there a new rule now for parents above 60?

Adding to the uncertainty, Munis claimed: “It’s true that the government has ‘closed’ visit visas for 60+ age. I visited the ministry twice in the past two days regarding my parents’ visa and was told the policy is now closed for that age group. 

These accounts point to a troubling perception: that the doors may have quietly shut for senior parents seeking to visit their children residing in Kuwait.

What the Official Policy Says and the Recent Reforms

To date, MOI has not publicly declared an age limit for parents applying for a family or visit visa in Kuwait. According to visa guidelines published by the Kuwait government, relatives wishing to pay a visit (including parents) may apply for a visit visa (family visit visa), subject to standard documentation and eligibility criteria.

That said, policy changes in recent months have included sweeping reforms to Kuwait’s family-visit visa scheme:

In August 2025, Kuwait abolished the minimum salary requirement for expatriates applying for family visit visas, removing a long-standing financial barrier.

The new rules also expanded the range of relatives eligible for family visas to include up to fourth-degree blood relatives and third-degree relations by marriage.

Restrictions on travel routes were also relaxed: visitors no longer need to travel via Kuwaiti national carriers, and land, sea, or other airlines may now be used

Despite these liberalizations, other conditions remain in place: a valid passport, proof of relationship (birth or marriage certificates), sponsor's civil ID, and often a salary certificate from the sponsor are still required. The visit visa is typically valid for 30 days, and extensions or conversions to residence are generally not permitted. ® Travel guide Kuwait

On the question of age, visa analysts and immigration commentators suggest that age alone is not part of the official eligibility criteria. There is no mention in the publicly available rules about rejecting parents solely because they are 60+

Yet the experiences from the ground tell a different story: a wave of digital rejections and refusals for older parents suggest that there may be unofficial practices or internal screening guidelines being applied - perhaps driven by health, security, or administrative risk assessments.

Most expatriates working in Kuwait fall into the 40-60 age band, meaning their parents are naturally in the 60+ range. Those children (many of them middle-aged professionals) often plan to host their elderly parents for short stays, to reconnect, provide family care, or offer medical support.

When visa rejections happen without explanation, it causes emotional distress, financial loss (for plane tickets, preparations, etc.), and even confusion about what rules truly apply. Many sponsors believe they abide by all published rules and yet see their applications denied.

Critically, the lack of clarity also allows speculation and anxiety to spread. Is there a secret "age ceiling"? Are consulates or digital systems applying new filters not been published to the public?

Without transparency, families are left guessing.

For now, expatriate families remain in limbo. But as these concerns grow louder, there is hope that the Ministry of Interior or Kuwait's immigration authorities will respond, perhaps clarifying or adjusting rules to avoid alienating a large and emotionally invested expat community in Kuwait.

The Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) announced that its Board of Directors has approved an update to the Bank Customer Protection Guide during its meeting on Monday.

The CBK Governor stated that the amendments align with the Bank’s efforts to strengthen transparency and protect customer rights, in line with international best practices and recent regulatory and technical developments.

The goal is to create a banking environment that ensures fair treatment and enhances the efficiency of customer protection in dealings with local banks.

In line with the CBK’s focus on financial inclusion, the updated guide also addresses the provision of banking services for people with special needs, ensuring equal access to financial products and services for all segments of society.

The revised guide combines previous instructions issued on July 5, 2015, creating a single, comprehensive framework for customer protection.

Among the key updates introduced:

Enhanced Transparency — Banks must provide customers with a clear document outlining essential product or service details — including fees, obligations, and conditions — before signing any contract.

Clear Contract Procedures — New guidelines govern how banks prepare, amend, and notify customers about changes in contracts.

Disclosure Requirements — Banks must inform customers about deposit interest rates, due dates, and any changes that occur.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) — Banks are required to disclose the APR, showing the full cost of credit including interest and fees.

Financial Tools — Banks must provide online calculators for loans and credit cards to help customers calculate installments, interest rates, and fees based on their inputs.

Data Privacy — Stronger measures have been added to protect customer confidentiality and regulate information sharing with third parties.

Financial Inclusion Enhancements:

• Clear mechanisms for handling accounts for minors, including notifying guardians and promoting financial awareness.
• Privacy guarantees for customers with special needs, allowing them to conduct transactions without witnesses unless requested, and ensuring that bank websites and apps meet international accessibility standards.
• Guidance on providing appropriate services for low-income customers and domestic workers.

Advertising Rules — Banks must clearly state the terms and conditions of “free” offers to prevent misleading promotions.

Complaint Handling — The response period for customer complaints has been reduced from 15 to 5 working days, and banks must establish performance indicators to track complaint handling and customer satisfaction, reporting results quarterly to management.

Banks are required to implement the guide immediately, with full compliance expected by April 2026.

The updated Bank Customer Protection Guide is available on the Central Bank of Kuwait’s official website.

The CBK concluded by reaffirming its commitment to enhancing the performance of Kuwait’s banking sector, ensuring fair and transparent treatment of all customers, and advancing financial inclusion in accordance with international standards.

The Ministry of Health announced on Sunday the success of the world’s first remote robotic surgery in the field of gynecological oncology, describing it as “an unprecedented medical achievement that adds to the nation’s record of successes in health innovation.”

In an official statement, the Ministry confirmed that the groundbreaking procedure was carried out through a comprehensive national collaboration between Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital and Al-Jahra Hospital, representing the first series of robotic surgeries conducted entirely by Kuwaiti medical teams using local infrastructure.

According to the statement, the Gynecological Oncology Unit at Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital, led by Dr. Wafaa Al-Duwaisan and Dr. Dalal Al-Shamaa, performed three intricate surgeries on Kuwaiti patients suffering from uterine cancer. The procedures utilized remote robotic surgical ligation technology, which the Ministry described as “a qualitative leap in modern surgical practice.”

The Ministry highlighted that this success demonstrates an advanced model of national integration in smart medicine, marking the beginning of a new era in localizing advanced medical technology within Kuwait. It further strengthens the country’s position as a regional and global leader in digital medicine and smart surgery.

The achievement also lays the foundation for training a new generation of Kuwaiti surgeons in robotic surgical techniques and enhancing cooperation across hospitals and specialties. It aligns with the Ministry’s strategic vision to develop an integrated, technology-driven healthcare system that meets future medical challenges and places patient care at its core.

The medical team extended its appreciation to Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadi, Undersecretary Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, and the Ministry’s leadership for their continuous support.

They emphasized that this milestone represents a transformative step toward building a smart, people-centered healthcare ecosystem, where science and innovation drive progress and patient safety remains paramount.

Decree No. 195 of 2025 has been issued to establish regulations governing the ownership of real estate by companies, funds, and investment portfolios, in implementation of Decree Law No. 74 of 1979 concerning the ownership of real estate by non-Kuwaitis, while taking into account the provisions of the same law.

According to Article 1 of the decree, published in the Official Gazette (Kuwait Alyawm), companies with non-Kuwaiti partners listed on licensed Kuwaiti stock exchanges, along with real estate funds and investment portfolios licensed by Kuwaiti authorities, are permitted to own real estate under specific conditions.

The decree clarifies that the purposes of such companies, funds, and portfolios must include engaging in real estate activities. However, it explicitly prohibits dealing in any form—whether through ownership, transfer, or investment—with real estate, plots, or lands designated for private residential purposes, regardless of their location or the project they belong to.

Article 2 of the decree stipulates that its provisions do not affect the rights of entities supervised by the Central Bank of Kuwait or other authorized bodies to own real estate in accordance with the law.

It also reaffirms that citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries shall continue to be treated as Kuwaiti citizens regarding the ownership of land and constructed properties within the State of Kuwait, in line with existing legal provisions.

The Al-Ajari Scientific Center confirmed that Kuwait’s natural rainy season, known as Wasm, will begin on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

The center explained that the Wasm season spans 52 days, divided into four distinct phases — Al-Awa, Al-Sammak, Al-Ghafra, and Al-Zabana — each lasting 13 days.

Among the main signs of the season, the center noted, is the sun’s continued southward tilt, which causes a decline in the sun’s angle and reduces heat, reports Al-Rai daily.

This shift marks the start of milder weather, with cooler days and refreshing nights.

At the beginning of Wasm, the “Howling” sub-season also commences, lasting 13 days and bringing noticeable changes in nature and climate, including active bird migration.

During Al-Awa, the days shorten, night hours lengthen, and sunrise and sunset times shift later, signaling the transition to cooler months.

The center highlighted that Wasm rains are particularly significant, as they usher in a fruitful spring and are often associated with the growth of truffles in desert areas.

Many long-term expatriate families in Kuwait face a challenging situation when their children pursue higher education abroad. Under current residency regulations, dependents holding family visas must return to Kuwait within six months, or their residence is automatically cancelled unless an extension is approved in advance. This rule, while administratively necessary, has caused emotional distress for parents whose children study overseas — especially when a small oversight or delay results in permanent cancellation of residency and separation from family.

Question: Dear Arab Times, I am an expatriate who has lived and worked in Kuwait for over 25 years with my family. My daughter was born and studied in Kuwait up to the 12th grade, and she is now pursuing her college education in India. In the past, I regularly submitted her bonafide certificate to extend her stay abroad beyond six months, and her residence remained valid. Last year, due to family circumstances, I forgot to submit the extension, and although her residence was renewed in August 2024, the Jawazat later informed me it was automatically cancelled because she did not enter Kuwait within six months. I would like to know if there is any way to reinstate or reapply for her dependent residence, as she is still studying in India, and we wish to reunite her with the family in Kuwait. Please give a thought sir, I am very positive and hopeful that you will make my case with the Governmen,t and some fruitful result will come out.

Answer: That’s a very good and important question, and many long-term expatriates in Kuwait face this same situation when their children study abroad.

Let’s go step by step so you clearly understand your legal position and the possible solutions under the Kuwait residency law.

The Legal Rule (6-Month Absence Rule)

Under Kuwait Residency Law, Article 12 of Ministerial Decision No. 640/1987 states: “The residence permit of an expatriate shall be automatically cancelled if the holder remains outside Kuwait for more than six months, unless prior permission is obtained from the Ministry of Interior before expiry of this period.”

What this means:

A dependent (on family/dependent visa) must not stay outside Kuwait for more than 6 months continuously, or the residence automatically cancels in the system.

An exception can be granted only if the sponsor (you) applies for it before the 6 months expire — for example, with a bonafide certificate or a student letter.

Once the residence is automatically cancelled, Jawazat (Residence Affairs Department / Passport Office) cannot reinstate it through normal renewal.

Why Your Daughter's Residence Was Cancelled

When your daughter stayed outside Kuwait beyond 6 months (June 2024) and you did not file the extension request before that date, the system automatically:

Renewal after cancellation doesn't override the automatic system rule - so when Jawazat later reviewed it, they found the violation and marked it cancelled.

• Once cancelled under this rule, it cannot be reactivated by local Jawazat (Residence Affairs Department / Passport Office).

Your Current Options

Option 1: Reapply for a New Dependent Visa (Most Practical)

• You can now apply for a fresh dependent visa for her again as your daughter (student).
• Even if her old residence was cancelled, she can come back on a new one.

Requirements:

• Copy of your salary certificate and work permit (minimum KD 500-600 monthly, depending on your company sector).
• Attested birth certificate showing she's your daughter.
• Bonafide certificate from her college (Arabic translation + MOFA attestation).
• Passport copy of your daughter.
• Civil ID copy of you and your wife.

Option 2: Humanitarian / Special Permission (Worth Trying)

If you want to try to reinstate her previous residence or seek a special exemption, visit:

Ministry of Interior - General Department of Residency Affairs (Subhan

HQ) Family Residency Section / Director's Office

Take:

• All previous extension papers you received before,
• College bonafide certificate (latest one),
• Passport + old Civil ID copies,
• Draft a short Arabic appeal letter for you to hand over at Subhan (in Arabic or English) explaining the situation - that you have been a resident for 25 years and simply missed one extension due to family circumstances.

Ask for:

"Istithnad' insaanee" (humanitarian exemption) to reactivate or issue a new visa without re-submission.

They sometimes refer the case to the Undersecretary's Office, and if approved, they'll allow the re-entry on the same residency number.

Recommended Plan for You

• Prepare a new bonafide certificate (attested and translated).
• Go first to Mishref Jawazat to confirm if reactivation is possible - ask for "Family Residence Section Supervisor."
• If they say not possible, go to Subhan HQ for humanitarian exemption.
• If still not possible, proceed to apply for a fresh dependent visa for your daughter

The Kuwaiti Diving Team’s Cubs removed 40 tons of waste from Kuwaiti beaches and coastal waters over the past summer, including large quantities of plastic and wood debris as well as several sunken boats and yachts, according to Team Leader Mishari Nasser Al-Sanousi.

Al-Sanousi told Al-Rai that most of the recovered waste came from popular beaches frequented by visitors, including the Abraj Beach, the Salmiya Beach and the Al-Bidda Beach, and southern coastal areas such as Bnaider, Khiran, and Julaia.

He noted that plastic waste remains the most widespread type, urging young people to take part in volunteer activities that give back to Kuwait and help protect its environment.

He added that during the summer of 2025, the Cubs carried out a range of environmental and volunteer initiatives to promote social responsibility and marine conservation.

These included participating in an environmental meeting with Dr. Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Ali bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Environmental Advisor to the Government of Ajman, to foster regional cooperation and communication skills.

The team also inspected a new Kuwait Bay boat at the Khorfakkan factory in the UAE, organized an awareness exhibition at the Scientific Center, and conducted salvage operations to recover sunken vessels near Marina Mall Hotel in Salmiya and the Fahaheel Marina beside Al Kout Mall — experiences that strengthened the members’ teamwork, endurance, and field skills.

The Kuwait Astronomical Society announced that a spectacular “super-harvest moon” will light up the sky tomorrow evening, appearing noticeably larger and brighter as it reaches perigee, its closest point to Earth.

Society president Adel Al-Saadoun explained that the moon will appear “enormous” and recommended observing it in the early evening with trees or buildings in the background to better appreciate its apparent size.

Traditionally, the Harvest Moon holds deep agricultural significance. Ancient farmers relied on its bright light to extend working hours and complete harvests before winter, earning it symbolic meaning as a sign of abundance and fertility in many cultures.

According to NASA, the moon’s actual size does not change; rather, the human brain’s perception creates the illusion of a larger moon — a phenomenon known as the “Moon Illusion.” The effect is especially striking when the moon is near the horizon, as nearby objects like trees or buildings make it appear even larger.

Reports indicate that the October Harvest Moon is a relatively rare event, visible across much of the world, with the Northern Hemisphere enjoying the best view as the moon rises large and radiant shortly after sunset.

As part of efforts to strengthen the integrity of education and protect Kuwait’s labor market from fraudulent qualifications, the Ministry of Higher Education has completed a new draft law on the equivalency of academic degrees, introducing stricter penalties and clearer regulatory procedures. The law aims to ensure that only accredited and equivalent degrees are recognized for employment or promotion in both public and private sectors.

The draft legislation replaces Law No. 78 of 2019, which was suspended just months after its enactment. It establishes a more comprehensive framework for the accreditation, verification, and use of academic qualifications, closing loopholes that previously allowed individuals to exploit unaccredited degrees for personal or professional gain.

According to government sources, the Ministry worked closely with other state bodies to address gaps in the previous law and introduce precise legal provisions to combat the misuse of non-equivalent certificates. The updated law introduces tougher penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines reaching KD 10,000 for those found guilty of using, accepting, or benefiting from fraudulent or unrecognized academic degrees, reports Al-Rai daily.

Under Article 2, a special committee will be formed within the Ministry of Higher Education by a decision of the Minister. Headed by the Undersecretary of the Ministry, the committee will include representatives from relevant government agencies and Ministry officials. This structure offers greater flexibility than the previous law, which mandated representation from a fixed list of bodies such as Kuwait University, the Civil Service Bureau, and the Ministry of Health.

Article 3 outlines the committee’s powers, which include overseeing all matters related to evaluation and equivalency of degrees, proposing categories of workers eligible for recognition, coordinating with international educational institutions, and formulating policies and strategies related to academic accreditation. The committee may also authorize specific Ministry departments to issue equivalency certificates in certain cases.

In Article 4, the draft law explicitly prohibits the use of non-equivalent academic certificates for employment, promotion, or any material or moral benefit. It also forbids the use of unrecognized academic titles in the media or public spaces. Exceptions will apply only to individuals who were already employed before the law’s enactment, faculty members on government scholarships, and certain categories of staff in licensed institutions as determined by the committee.

Under Article 5, all job applicants must submit an equivalency application to the Ministry before taking up employment, with a one-year grace period to obtain approval. Employment contracts will be terminated if equivalency is not granted within that time unless the committee explicitly rejects the application earlier. This provision introduces a more structured and transparent approach to hiring compliance.

The penalty framework under Articles 7 and 8 represents a major tightening of enforcement. Violations may lead to up to one year in prison and fines of KD 1,000–5,000, while those who knowingly accept inequivalent certificates face harsher penalties, including up to five years in prison and dismissal from public employment. The most severe penalties apply to public employees who use or approve fake degrees for personal gain, reinforcing the government’s stance on protecting public integrity.

Additionally, Article 6 authorizes the Ministry to charge fees for certificate verification and accreditation services in line with Law No. 1 of 2025. The Ministry may also delegate verification tasks to approved authorities capable of confirming the authenticity of foreign academic credentials.

These entities will be bound by contractual obligations to maintain data confidentiality and uphold quality assurance standards.

Overall, the new draft law represents a decisive step toward ensuring academic integrity, fair employment practices, and institutional accountability in Kuwait.

By imposing stronger penalties and establishing clear oversight mechanisms, the Ministry of Higher Education aims to protect both the credibility of the education system and the competitiveness of the national workforce.

A security source told Al-Rai that the department’s operations room, equipped with new-generation surveillance cameras, traffic patrols, civilian units, and drones, has recorded a growing number of violations, including illegal overtaking, deliberate obstruction of traffic, and intentional disruption of road flow — all of which have been identified as key contributors to congestion and bottlenecks across Kuwait’s main roads.

The source explained that directives have been issued to impound vehicles involved in these violations for up to 60 days, unless otherwise decided by the General Traffic Department. The fines for such offenses range between KD 15 and KD 20.

Emphasizing that the campaign’s goal is to promote road safety and correct driver behavior, not to collect fines, the source said, “It is unacceptable for any driver to disregard regulations and deliberately obstruct others, causing unnecessary traffic and disrupting people’s work.”

The source added that under the recently amended Traffic Law, all violations — regardless of severity — may be referred to court. Moreover, repeated violations by expatriate drivers, particularly those involving overtaking infractions or intentional traffic obstruction, could result in deportation.

The three key violations subject to strict enforcement are breaching overtaking rules and regulations, deliberately obstructing traffic and intentionally disrupting the flow of movement.

Kuwait Municipality has emphasized that there is urgent need for its oversight and regulatory bodies to impose fines for cleanliness violations, similar to violations of traffic, electricity, water, and environmental laws.

In a statement issued today, the municipality’s spokesperson and Director of Public Relations, Mohammed Al-Sindan, urged swift adoption of stricter and more deterrent penalties proportionate to the seriousness of public hygiene violations, reports Al-Rai daily.

His call comes amid a noticeable increase in waste being dumped in public spaces across the country.

Al-Sindan noted that the municipality has recorded a sharp rise in instances of waste disposal outside designated areas, as well as other forms of inappropriate behavior that have placed excessive strain on sanitation workers responsible for keeping public areas clean.

He stressed that enforcing stronger penalties for public cleanliness violations would play a crucial role in preventing the dumping of waste on roads, in open areas, parks, beaches, and markets, thereby helping preserve Kuwait’s urban and environmental health.

According to ministry sources, the reserve increased to more than 96 percent of total storage capacity, ensuring stability in supply throughout the high-demand period, reports Al-Jarida daily.

The ministry reported that the highest daily water consumption was recorded on June 4 at 533 million imperial gallons, while the lowest was on July 4, at 504 million gallons.

Officials noted that advance plans were implemented ahead of summer to boost reserves and maintain balance in the water system through ongoing production projects, ensuring citizens and residents received uninterrupted service.

The ministry urged the public to continue conserving water, emphasizing that rationalization should become a daily practice given Kuwait’s scarcity of natural freshwater and its full dependence on seawater desalination.

It also highlighted that several expansion projects are underway to enhance production and storage capacity, supporting population growth, urban development, and long-term water security.

Among these is the comprehensive water system project in Mutlaa City, currently being executed for early operational use.

In parallel, the ministry continues to prioritize regular maintenance of pumping stations, main reservoirs, and distribution networks to guarantee efficient operations and minimize sudden disruptions.

Separately, the ministry’s official spokesperson, Engineer Fatima Hayat, announced that routine maintenance work on power generation units, transmission networks, and transformer stations will begin tomorrow. The initiative forms part of the ministry’s annual plan to boost system efficiency, enhance operational readiness, and reduce emergency outages.

Hayat explained that some maintenance activities may cause temporary power interruptions in specific areas, according to pre-announced schedules.

She assured that affected customers will be notified through the “Sahl” government application based on their registered Civil Information data, with real-time updates available on the ministry’s official social media channels.

She concluded by reaffirming that these measures align with the ministry’s ongoing efforts to modernize its networks and elevate service quality, thanking citizens and residents for their cooperation and understanding.

Oman’s Dhofar Governorate has signed an agreement to implement the “Al Khair” Mosque project using 3D printing technology, incorporating advanced environmentally friendly construction methods. The initiative forms part of a broader plan to develop the waterfront in Salalah’s Al Dahariz area, Al Qabas newspaper reported.

According to the Oman News Agency, the mosque will be built by Inotek Oman, a company specializing in 3D printing construction, in collaboration with Adi Architects.

Dhofar Municipality Chairman Ahmed bin Mohsen Al Ghassani said the “Al Khair” Mosque project reflects Dhofar Governorate’s vision for innovative urban development that showcases Islamic identity while embracing modern trends in sustainability. He noted that the mosque will serve as a prominent spiritual, architectural, and cultural landmark along the Dahariz coast in Salalah.

Al Ghassani highlighted that the use of 3D printing technology helps reduce material waste and speeds up construction. The project also incorporates sustainable features such as natural lighting, renewable energy, locally sourced materials suited for the coastal climate, and salt- and wind-resistant landscaping. He emphasized that the mosque will strengthen the governorate’s sustainable urban identity.

Yasser bin Saeed Al Barami, the project’s initiator and sponsor, explained that the mosque’s design follows a spiral ribbon concept, creating shaded pathways and tiered green spaces while integrating energy-generation technologies using motion, wind, and sunlight.

He added that the oval prayer hall includes a central skylight to allow natural light to illuminate the interior in an innovative manner. The minaret draws inspiration from the Omani sail and traditional incense burner, topped with the Islamic crescent, blending Islamic heritage with a contemporary architectural approach.

Gulf health ministers’ undersecretaries held a preparatory meeting on Friday ahead of the 11th Gulf Health Ministers’ Meeting, which Kuwait is set to host tomorrow, Saturday, reported Al Jarida newspaper.

In his opening speech, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Undersecretary of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Health and Chair of the meeting, emphasized that Kuwait’s hosting underscores its commitment to supporting joint Gulf initiatives in the health sector and strengthening regional integration to ensure sustainable health security.

Dr. Al-Mutairi highlighted that the meeting reflects the GCC states’ longstanding tradition of constructive cooperation and ongoing communication, which consolidates the foundations of integration and collective achievement.

He noted that the agenda includes several key topics, including follow-up on Supreme Council decisions related to the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs (2025–2028), which aims to protect youth and communities from the dangers of substance abuse.

The agenda also covers a review of the Healthy Cities Program across GCC countries, examining tangible achievements at the levels of cities, villages, and universities. In addition, the meeting addresses the examination of expatriate workers as a priority for safeguarding public health, enhancing preventive policies, and securing shared health borders.

Another significant agenda is the proposal to establish the Gulf Health Committee for Innovation and Digital Transformation under the General Secretariat, aimed at preparing unified standards and guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in diagnosis, treatment, and health data management. The meeting will also discuss the unified work plan for the Committee of Health Ministers for 2026–2030.

Dr. Al-Mutairi expressed confidence that participants’ expertise and experiences would help formulate constructive recommendations and decisions to elevate GCC states’ regional and international standing, fulfill citizens’ aspirations, and reflect the vision of Gulf leaders.

Khalid Al-Sunaidi, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Development Affairs at the GCC Secretariat, praised the GCC health system’s qualitative development, noting that joint cooperation has enabled member states to surpass regional and global averages in health indicators and achieve international recognition. He emphasized that these achievements go beyond medical services, contributing to human development by increasing life expectancy, reducing mortality, and enhancing societal productivity.

Al-Sunaidi added that GCC countries now have more than 863 hospitals, over 3,400 health centers and complexes, and approximately 594,000 citizens benefiting from medical services abroad.

Kuwait has successfully returned to the international debt markets for the first time since 2017, raising $11.25 billion in one of the world’s largest sovereign issuances of 2025.

The three-tranche issuance drew overwhelming investor demand, underscoring strong confidence in Kuwait’s economic fundamentals and long-term reform agenda.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the issuance included a $3.25 billion three-year tranche and a $3 billion five-year tranche, both priced at +40 basis points over US Treasuries, as well as a $5 billion 10-year tranche at +50 basis points.

These rates mark a significant improvement over Kuwait’s debut sovereign issuance in 2017.

The bonds were oversubscribed 2.5 times, with orders totaling $28 billion. More than two-thirds of the allocations went to investors outside the Middle East, including 30% in Europe and the UK, 26% in the US, and 10% in Asia.

Minister of Finance Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem said the issuance reflects global market confidence in Kuwait’s financial resilience, prudent policies, and solid reserves.

He added that beyond meeting financing needs, the issuance enhances Kuwait’s standing in international markets and strengthens ties with global investors as part of Vision 2035.

The transaction was jointly led by Citibank, Goldman Sachs International, HSBC, J.P. Morgan, and Mizuho, with Bank of China and ICBC acting as co-managers.

The Central Bank of Kuwait has directed all local banks, electronic payment service providers, and e-money service providers to prohibit merchants from charging customers additional fees when using KNET debit cards or credit cards through electronic payment channels, including payment gateways and point-of-sale (POS) devices.

This decision follows complaints from consumers who were being asked to pay extra charges for card transactions. To strengthen its supervisory role and safeguard customer rights, the Central Bank has mandated the inclusion of explicit clauses in merchant agreements, ensuring that final beneficiaries within Kuwait cannot be charged any additional amounts for electronic payments.

Key directives issued by the Central Bank include:

• Mandatory Clause in Agreements – All contracts with merchants must explicitly state that no additional fees can be imposed on customers using electronic payment methods.
• Enforcement of Compliance – Service providers must take action against violators, including suspending services if necessary.
• Review and Update of Contracts – Existing agreements with merchants must be revised to align with these requirements within one month.

The Central Bank also confirmed it will monitor compliance closely and suspend services for any entities that continue to violate the rules.

The Ministry of Interior has officially ended the grace period granted to people whose Kuwaiti citizenships were revoked under Article 8, confirming that as of Wednesday, October 1, they are no longer permitted to use their Kuwaiti passports.

Notifications have been sent directly to affected individuals via the government’s “Sahel” App, instructing them to hand in their passports to the General Directorate of Nationality and Travel Documents.

The Al-Rai daily quoting security sources said, the expiration of the grace period means that Article 8 passport holders can no longer use these travel documents to leave Kuwait. The passports are now considered invalid for outbound travel, and any attempt to use them for exit will not be permitted.

The same sources clarified that a limited exception has been made for those who are already outside Kuwait. Holders of revoked passports currently abroad will still be allowed to return to the country.

However, upon arrival at airports, seaports, or land border crossings, they will be required to surrender their passports immediately to the authorities.

The move comes as part of Kuwait’s broader measures to regulate nationality and travel documentation, ensuring that individuals whose citizenships have been revoked under Article 8 no longer benefit from the privileges of holding a Kuwaiti passport.

The Ministry emphasized that compliance with the directive is mandatory and that the General Directorate of Nationality and Travel Documents remains the sole body authorized to handle surrendered passports.

This step reflects the government’s strict enforcement of nationality regulations, aimed at preventing the misuse of travel documents and strengthening oversight of citizenship-related matters. It also underscores Kuwait’s continued reliance on the Sahel app as an official channel for communicating sensitive administrative decisions directly to citizens and residents.