The Military Police Command of the General Staff of the Army has introduced a new emergency hotline 119, available around the clock to the public. This move is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security and accountability within the Ministry of Defense in Kuwait.

Purpose of the Hotline

The 119 hotline is specifically designed to receive:

• Reports of misconduct
• Complaints concerning Ministry of Defense personnel
• Violations impacting the Ministry's property and facilities

This initiative plays a crucial role in enhancing the Ministry’s capacity to respond quickly and effectively to security-related incidents.

To encourage public cooperation and ensure transparency, the Military Police Command has affirmed that all reports will be treated with strict confidentiality. This safeguard aims to protect informants and uphold the integrity of the reporting process.

The launch of this hotline is aligned with broader efforts by the Ministry of Defense to improve internal monitoring and responsiveness. It supports the institution’s strategic goals by facilitating faster follow-ups and reinforcing accountability mechanisms.

Kuwaiti citizens and residents are encouraged to make use of this service if they witness any irregularities or violations involving Ministry of Defense personnel or property. Their participation is essential in supporting national defense integrity and promoting a secure environment for all.

Kuwait International Airport has fallen to the bottom of Gulf aviation rankings following a notable drop in passenger traffic. While regional hubs such as Dubai, Riyadh, and Abu Dhabi are experiencing rapid growth, Kuwait’s main airport recorded a 3% decrease in passengers in the first half of 2025, totaling only 7.4 million travelers.

This downward trend makes Kuwait the only Gulf nation to report a decline in air traffic during this period. In contrast, Dubai welcomed 46 million passengers (a 2.3% increase), while Abu Dhabi saw a 13% jump to 15.8 million passengers. Even smaller hubs like Bahrain and Muscat achieved modest growth.

A major factor contributing to Kuwait’s decline is the withdrawal of key international airlines. British Airways suspended its Kuwait route in March 2025, joining other major carriers like Lufthansa and KLM that have already ceased operations in the country.

While Bahrain managed to persuade British Airways to maintain its flights, Kuwait's lack of swift diplomatic engagement left its route cancelled. Aviation analysts highlight this as a sign of broader institutional inaction in Kuwait’s civil aviation sector.

• Limited expansion of national carriers due to regulatory restrictions.
• Delays in renewing contracts and attracting new airlines due to bureaucratic processes.
• Aging infrastructure, with reports of gravel on the runway causing aircraft damage and overcrowded terminals disrupting operations.
• High jet fuel prices, making operations less attractive for carriers compared to other Gulf airports.

Kuwait’s Vision 2035 plan envisions transforming the country into a financial and commercial hub. A core pillar of this initiative is a modern, efficient airport that acts as a gateway for global commerce and tourism. However, aviation experts argue that Kuwait International Airport’s current performance is “out of sync” with these national goals.

“There is an over-reliance on a single decision-making body — the General Authority of Civil Aviation,” said one expert. “To reverse this trend, Kuwait needs to decentralize oversight and implement a time-bound action plan with input from multiple credible entities.”

With neighboring Gulf countries accelerating their aviation strategies, Kuwait risks losing its competitive edge. Experts are calling for:

• A diversified aviation oversight framework
• Rapid modernization of infrastructure
• Proactive airline engagement policies
• Targeted investment in airport services and facilities

If these measures are not taken promptly, Kuwait’s goal of becoming a key regional transit hub under Vision 2035 may slip further out of reach.

On Friday, August 2nd, Kuwait solemnly commemorated the 35th anniversary of the Iraqi invasion—a defining moment that reshaped the nation’s history and united the world in support of its sovereignty. The invasion, carried out by Iraqi forces in 1990, sparked widespread condemnation as a blatant violation of international law and human rights.

The aftermath of the invasion brought severe consequences for Kuwait. Major roads were blocked, infrastructure was devastated, and homes were looted or destroyed. Civilians endured immense suffering as the peaceful country was plunged into turmoil. Yet, amid the destruction, the Kuwaiti spirit remained unbroken.

Men, women, and even expatriates played critical roles in resisting the occupation. Citizens bravely formed underground resistance networks to provide supplies, intelligence, and logistical support. Kuwaiti women contributed significantly—delivering food, relaying messages, and participating in clandestine operations, often at great personal risk.

While the resistance worked on the ground, Kuwait’s leadership, led by the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and Crown Prince Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, pursued diplomatic channels with tireless determination. Their efforts, backed by Kuwait’s international allies, were instrumental in building a global coalition to restore the country’s independence.

The United Nations acted swiftly. On August 2, 1990, the UN Security Council passed Resolution 660, condemning the Iraqi invasion and calling for the immediate withdrawal of Iraqi forces. The resolution also supported mediation efforts led by the League of Arab States.

Shortly after, world leaders gathered in Saudi Arabia to coordinate a collective response. The coalition’s decisive military intervention in early 1991 led to Kuwait’s liberation in February of the same year.

Kuwait’s longstanding image as a peaceful, generous nation since its independence played a crucial role in garnering international backing. Today, the nation pays tribute to the courage and resilience of those who lived through the occupation, as well as the sacrifices of its resistance fighters and leaders.

As Kuwait reflects on its past, the country reaffirms its commitment to peace, unity, and sovereignty. The 35th anniversary is not only a moment of remembrance but also a powerful reminder of how collective strength and international cooperation can overcome even the darkest of times.

Online scammers across Kuwait are becoming increasingly sophisticated, launching deceptive campaigns that imitate legitimate businesses. Thousands of residents are at risk as cybercriminals exploit social media platforms with fake giveaways, suspicious investment schemes, and forged airline ticket promotions.

These scams are no longer simple tricks; they often involve professional-grade visuals, fake websites, and the use of trending hashtags to enhance credibility. As a result, even seasoned internet users can fall into the trap.

Scammers hijack trending topics and brand hashtags to increase the reach of their posts. This tactic tricks users into thinking the promotions are authentic and relevant.

Websites like kuwait-airways.com or jazeraairways.com may appear genuine but redirect users to phishing sites designed to steal banking details or personal information.

Offers such as free airline tickets, heavily discounted fares to destinations like India, Dubai, or Egypt, or guaranteed returns on investments are typically scams. If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is.

Only interact with verified social media accounts marked with a blue checkmark. Avoid pages with low engagement or ones that were recently created.

Scam pages often use misleading usernames like @Kuwaitairways_off1cial to trick users. Always double-check for accuracy.

Professional organizations avoid phrases like “Act now!” or “Ends tonight!” and ensure their content is grammatically sound.

Hover over links to see where they lead. On mobile, use tools like ScamAdviser to verify link authenticity.

Avoid promotions for free airline tickets or “guaranteed” financial gains. Confirm deals through official websites or mobile apps.

Use the “Report” feature on social platforms and notify affected brands through official channels.

The Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has warned citizens and residents to stay alert and avoid unverified promotions. Fake travel and investment ads are now considered a major digital threat, especially during the holiday season.

Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior and national banks stress the importance of verifying all communication before engaging in transactions. Always check sender email addresses and avoid clicking suspicious links.

With fraud on the rise, awareness is key. By following these precautions, Kuwait residents can better protect themselves against cyber threats.

The General Traffic Department has announced a temporary closure of Al-Mughira Bin Shuba Street in Salmiya starting Monday, July 28. The affected stretch extends from the intersection with Hamad Al-Mubarak Street to the Passports Roundabout. The closure is scheduled to last two weeks, as part of a planned road maintenance project.

Motorists commuting through the area are strongly urged to use alternative routes to avoid traffic congestion. The General Traffic Department has issued guidance to ensure smooth flow and has deployed traffic personnel to manage diversions effectively.

The road closure is expected to impact daily commutes in Salmiya, especially during peak hours. Residents and visitors are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and follow all posted traffic instructions and signs to minimize delays.

The closure is part of a broader effort by the Kuwait Municipality and the Public Works Ministry to improve infrastructure and ensure safer road conditions across the country. Similar maintenance projects have recently taken place in other key areas to address wear and tear caused by weather and heavy traffic.

For residents who frequently travel in and around Salmiya, staying informed about road closures and maintenance work is essential. Authorities recommend following official traffic alerts and planning routes in advance to avoid unexpected delays.

This proactive measure reflects the government's ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing road safety and infrastructure efficiency in Kuwait.

The Kuwait Towers have officially been added to the Arab Heritage List under the modern architecture category by the Arab Architectural and Urban Heritage Observatory. The announcement came during the conclusion of the Observatory's ninth regional forum, hosted in Beirut.

This prestigious recognition highlights the iconic status of the Kuwait Towers as both a national landmark and a symbol of modern Arab architectural innovation.

Engineer Mahmoud Al-Rabiah from the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) confirmed that the Towers were nominated as a cultural property of the State of Kuwait. The Kuwait Towers stood out as one of only two modern architectural entries accepted into the heritage list.

Al-Rabiah emphasized the symbolic and functional importance of the Towers. Originally designed as water tanks, the structures transcend utility by serving as a striking architectural feature.

“They are not just water tanks but a unique architectural expression, proudly representing Kuwait in the modern era,” said Al-Rabiah.

The nomination was prepared with support from NCCAL’s Restoration and Preservation Department, under Secretary-General Dr. Muhammad Al-Jassar.

Engineer Mohammed Abu Saadi, head of the evaluation committee, stated that the Towers were selected after a comprehensive evaluation.

“The Towers serve a function and have become a national landmark, a symbol of identity, and a unique mark of Kuwait,” he noted.

The Arab Architectural and Urban Heritage Observatory operates under ALECSO, the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization. The forum was held under the patronage of Lebanese Minister of Culture Ghassan Salameh, in the presence of ALECSO Director General Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar.

This recognition affirms the Kuwait Towers’ place as a beacon of modern Arab architectural heritage, reflecting Kuwait’s identity and urban development vision.

The Public Authority for Roads and Transportation (PART) is pushing forward with one of Kuwait’s critical infrastructure projects: the development of a main sewer and reservoir system to efficiently manage rainwater drainage in the South Abdullah Al-Mubarak area.

The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Public Works’ broader efforts to modernize Kuwait’s national rainwater drainage infrastructure, particularly in response to expanding urban zones and the effects of climate change.

Sources confirmed that the project had achieved a 65% completion rate by the end of June. Work began on January 5, 2025, and is scheduled for completion within 365 days—by January 4, 2026. With approximately 160 days remaining, the project is progressing on schedule.

The work is being carried out under Contract No. (H T/291), marking a vital step forward in Kuwait’s infrastructure enhancement strategy.

The development includes a massive reservoir with a holding capacity of around 53,000 cubic meters. A key feature of the project is a 92-meter-long sewer system, designed to manage large volumes of rainwater efficiently.

A major challenge tackled by engineers involves a 102-meter stretch of deep micro-tunneling, planned to bypass nearby oil pipelines and ensure structural safety.

Another major component is a 1,230-meter-long reservoir being built in six distinct phases. The initial phase includes sections ranging from 92 meters to 500 meters. In addition, a 1,500-cubic-meter culvert is being constructed to handle overflow, along with interconnections to two existing reservoirs for enhanced water flow control.

This infrastructure is expected to significantly reduce the risks of flooding during seasonal rainfalls. By effectively channeling and storing excess water, the system will prevent accumulation in residential zones, thereby improving public safety and urban resilience.

As residential expansion continues in South Abdullah Al-Mubarak, the timely completion of this rainwater drainage system will boost infrastructure efficiency and improve living standards. It also supports Kuwait’s broader sustainability goals and climate resilience strategies.

This project is part of a national framework aimed at upgrading essential utilities across the country. It demonstrates Kuwait’s commitment to implementing advanced engineering solutions to meet future urban and environmental challenges.

Kuwait is currently battling an intense heatwave, with Jahra registering the highest temperature in the country at a scorching 52°C on Monday, according to the Kuwait Meteorological Department. Abdali and Matarba closely followed, both recording 51°C, while Umm Al Maradim Island saw the lowest temperature at a relatively milder 39°C.

Meteorologists have issued warnings that the heatwave will continue in the coming days, with forecasts predicting temperatures could again soar up to 50°C. Coastal regions are also expected to face elevated humidity levels, further intensifying the discomfort for residents and posing health risks, especially for the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

In response to the extreme weather conditions, the Public Fire Force’s Public Relations Department has released an urgent advisory, stressing the importance of electrical safety. With electricity consumption peaking due to widespread use of air conditioning and cooling systems, residents are urged to take precautionary steps to avoid fire hazards.

Key Electrical Safety Recommendations

• Avoid Overloading Sockets: Do not connect multiple high-wattage appliances to a single outlet, as this may lead to overheating and spark dangerous fires.
• Use Certified Equipment: Ensure all electrical connectors and extension cords comply with approved safety standards.
• Inspect Cables and Plugs: Regularly check wiring for visible damage or fraying.
• Unplug When Not in Use: Disconnect unused appliances to reduce load and risk.

Authorities remain on high alert as temperatures remain dangerously high across Kuwait. The Meteorological Department and emergency services continue to monitor the situation closely and urge the public to stay informed through official weather updates.

Residents are also encouraged to stay indoors during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, particularly during midday when temperatures are at their highest.

Readers interested in similar weather-related updates can also explore articles on Kuwait’s summer weather patterns, public safety campaigns during heatwaves, and how to stay safe during extreme heat conditions.

Kuwait has established itself as a leading destination for foreign professionals, thanks to its stable economic conditions, modern infrastructure, and inclusive environment. These factors continue to attract skilled workers from across the globe, particularly in essential sectors like healthcare, education, oil, construction, services, and technology.

Kuwait's labor market reflects significant diversity, with workers from 169 different nationalities currently employed across the country. This broad representation highlights the nation's multicultural fabric and its openness to welcoming professionals from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

One of the critical reasons foreign talent is drawn to Kuwait is its legal framework, which actively protects labor rights and ensures peaceful coexistence. The country maintains laws that support fair treatment, safe working conditions, and mechanisms to address labor-related grievances.

According to the latest government data, Kuwait’s labor force has reached approximately 2.21 million workers. This includes 1.72 million men and 489,500 women, comprising both local and expatriate workers. The growing workforce underscores Kuwait’s ongoing demand for human capital to support national development initiatives.

• Healthcare: Hospitals and clinics across Kuwait rely on international medical professionals.
• Construction and Oil: These industries remain the backbone of the Kuwaiti economy, heavily supported by foreign labor.
• Education and Technology: International teachers and IT experts play crucial roles in modernizing education and innovation.

Through various development programs and worker support policies, Kuwaiti authorities continue to attract top talent while maintaining a secure and lawful employment environment. The government’s proactive efforts ensure that workers can thrive and contribute to the country's growing economy.

Kuwaiti authorities have revised the national list of individuals and entities linked to terrorism financing and money laundering, aligning with the United Nations Security Council's Chapter VII directives. This move strengthens Kuwait’s commitment to international anti-terrorism standards and financial transparency.

The updated list, released by the Committee for the Implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions, includes 118 individuals from diverse backgrounds. The breakdown by nationality is as follows:

• 17 Syrians
• 16 Somalis
• 13 Yemenis
• 9 Lebanese
• 4 Australians
• 4 Tunisians
• 4 Bahrainis
• 3 Saudis
• 3 Pakistanis
• 3 Egyptians
• 3 Kuwaitis
• 2 Ugandans
• 2 Eritreans
• 2 Iranians
• 2 Qataris
• 1 Ukrainian

Additionally, the list features 11 expatriates, 9 stateless Bedouns, and 11 individuals whose nationalities have not been disclosed.

The update also includes 13 organizations allegedly linked to terror funding. While their names have not been publicly disclosed, the entities are believed to operate across various regions and industries. These organizations are being monitored for suspected involvement in illegal financial networks supporting terrorist operations.

This comprehensive revision of the national list demonstrates Kuwait’s proactive approach in fighting terrorism financing and enforcing global security compliance. Authorities have emphasized their dedication to enhancing regional coordination and fulfilling their obligations under international law.

Kuwait’s security and financial institutions continue to cooperate with global partners to block funding sources for terrorism. This updated list is part of a broader initiative to align with global counter-terrorism efforts and prevent the misuse of financial systems.

Kuwait's updated terror financing list marks a firm step toward safeguarding national and international interests, reinforcing the country’s zero-tolerance policy towards activities that threaten security and stability.

The Public Relations Department of Kuwait Municipality confirmed that a recent inspection campaign was carried out by the Engineering Audit and Follow-up Department in Farwaniya Governorate. This campaign specifically targeted bachelor accommodations that were found to be in violation of municipal regulations.

As a result of the inspections, electricity was disconnected in 11 properties that were deemed non-compliant. The municipality had previously issued 13 warnings to these properties, indicating that action would be taken if violations were not rectified. The enforcement move aims to ensure public safety and housing regulation compliance.

• Khaitan
• Andalous
• Omariya
• Firdous

These regions were identified as having a significant number of bachelor accommodations, which often fail to meet residential safety standards set by the municipality.

The Municipality has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing regular inspections across all governorates in Kuwait. The goal is to ensure that residential units—especially bachelor accommodations—comply with health, safety, and zoning laws. The authorities have called on landlords to adhere strictly to housing regulations to avoid penalties such as disconnection of services or legal action.

This action is part of Kuwait’s broader initiative to regulate unlicensed and overcrowded housing units, which often lead to infrastructure strain and safety hazards. Similar efforts have been previously reported in other regions, showcasing the municipality’s ongoing dedication to improving residential living conditions.

Kuwait International Bank (KIB) has announced plans to beautify and develop the iconic Abdul Razzaq Gate in the heart of Kuwait City. This move aligns with the bank’s commitment to social responsibility and its support for initiatives that enhance urban aesthetics and public service infrastructure.

The beautification project recently received the green light from the Municipal Council, marking a significant milestone in urban development efforts within the capital. This development underscores the bank's dedication to contributing positively to the Kuwaiti community.

Abdul Razzaq Gate is located in a prominent area in downtown Kuwait City, making it a vital landmark for both residents and businesses. The gate holds deep historical and architectural value, symbolizing Kuwait’s rich cultural legacy and urban evolution.

By investing in this beautification project, KIB aims to restore and highlight the gate’s heritage while also improving the city’s visual appeal. The initiative is seen as more than just a corporate gesture—it is regarded as a national effort to preserve Kuwait’s identity through the enhancement of its historic sites.

The Abdul Razzaq Gate project is part of a broader vision to modernize Kuwait City without compromising its traditional charm. Institutions like KIB play a critical role in achieving this balance by supporting projects that serve the dual purpose of modernization and heritage preservation.

The bank’s initiative complements other ongoing efforts aimed at revitalizing urban spaces and ensuring that historic areas remain vibrant and accessible to the public.

KIB has consistently engaged in corporate social responsibility programs that contribute to environmental sustainability, cultural enrichment, and social welfare. This latest project further cements its role as a key stakeholder in Kuwait’s community development and national progress.

As the project unfolds, residents can expect improved infrastructure, better public accessibility, and a renewed sense of pride in their cultural landmarks.

The Ministry of Health has revealed a remarkable drop in ambulance reports related to traffic accidents, recording 357 fewer cases within just two months of implementing Kuwait’s new traffic law.

Ministry of Health spokesperson Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad credited this significant improvement to a combination of Divine grace and the concerted efforts of both legislative reforms and on-ground law enforcement. According to his statement on the “X” platform, this coordinated approach has led to increased public safety and reduced emergency response strain.

Dr. Al-Sanad expressed optimism that this downward trend in traffic-related emergencies would continue as authorities maintain strict enforcement of the updated traffic regulations. The decline is seen as a positive outcome of Kuwait’s broader efforts to improve road safety, reduce accident rates, and enhance emergency response efficiency.

This announcement follows recent nationwide traffic safety campaigns, including stricter penalties for violations, increased use of surveillance technologies, and road safety awareness programs. These initiatives have collectively aimed to address high accident rates and improve driving culture across the country.

The drop in ambulance reports not only highlights the success of the new legal framework but also reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding public health and road safety. Kuwaiti authorities are expected to continue refining and enforcing policies that prioritize citizen well-being and efficient emergency services.

The latest edition of the Henley Passport Index 2025 has placed the Kuwaiti passport as the third most powerful in the Arab world and 50th globally. Holders of a Kuwaiti passport now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 100 destinations, reflecting steady progress in the country’s diplomatic reach and global mobility.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to dominate the Arab region, ranking 8th globally. Emirati citizens can now travel to 184 countries without the need for a prior visa, making it one of the strongest passports in the world in terms of travel freedom.

Qatar holds the second place regionally and is 47th worldwide, granting its citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to 112 destinations.

Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, ranks fourth in the Arab world and 54th globally, with 91 countries offering entry without a pre-arranged visa.

Bahrain secures fifth place among Arab nations and 55th globally, providing its nationals with access to 90 destinations. Close behind is Oman, ranked sixth regionally and 56th globally, with 88 visa-free or visa-on-arrival countries.

Globally, Singapore continues to lead the Henley Passport Index, followed closely by Japan and South Korea. The rest of the Top 10 includes:

• Denmark
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Ireland
• Italy
• Spain

Additionally, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, and Sweden share the 5th global ranking, showcasing Europe’s dominance in passport strength.

On the lower end of the spectrum, passports from Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Somalia, Pakistan, Nepal, Libya, Palestine, Bangladesh, and Eritrea provide the least global mobility, offering limited visa-free access and ranking at the bottom of the Henley Index.

Kuwait’s climb in the global rankings is a testament to its continued efforts in international diplomacy, foreign policy, and global partnerships. The increased visa-free access strengthens Kuwait’s position on the world stage, facilitating easier travel for tourism, education, and business.

As regional dynamics evolve, further improvements to Kuwait’s global mobility are expected in the coming years, backed by strategic diplomatic agreements and consular initiatives.

A long-time Indian expatriate has come forward with a distressing account of visa fraud and exploitation in Kuwait. Having arrived in the country at the age of five, the man claims he became the victim of a widespread visa trading racket operated under the name of a legal general trading company based in Farwaniya.

The ordeal began in 2019 when the expat joined (M-A-A) General Trading & Contracting Co., hoping to launch a small business through its commercial license. According to the victim, the Indian caretaker manager of the company, referred to as A.K., offered use of the company license in exchange for fees.

However, what appeared to be a legitimate arrangement soon spiraled into a financial and legal nightmare. “He took money from us — for salaries, stamping, insurance, and office rent — without giving receipts or any proper documentation,” the victim stated.

Despite signing agreements, none were registered with the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce, and attempts to contact the Kuwaiti sponsor were dismissed by A.K., who insisted there was “nothing to worry about.”

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the situation worsened. The manager reportedly began selling visas openly, demanding sums ranging from KD 500 to KD 1,800 from job seekers desperate for legal residency.

“He took KD 1,250 from me when my residence expired in August 2022. He kept my passport and fed me lies. I had no work, no money, and I was borrowing just to survive,” the man recounted.

He alleges A.K. abused his access to bank accounts and official documents to manipulate workers. Fake salary receipts were reportedly signed to keep the company’s labor files active, while actual salaries were siphoned off.

One of the most alarming aspects of the complaint is the claim that A.K. withheld the victim’s passport for two years, using it as leverage to prevent legal action or contact with the Kuwaiti sponsor.

When the victim approached the Public Authority of Manpower (Shoun), he eventually connected with the real sponsor. Although assistance was promised, the passport had expired, forcing the man to obtain an emergency one from the Indian Embassy — incurring additional expenses and delays.

“He even told me to declare the passport lost, just to free up a visa slot for someone else. Then he mocked me for applying for a temporary one,” the victim said.

By October 2024, the company’s labor file was closed and the victim was formally released from sponsorship. However, he says no legal action has been taken against the manager or the company.

“Shoun closed the file. But what about the money taken from dozens of others? What about the company’s bank accounts? Nothing was done,” he said.

The office in Farwaniya, near Metro Cinema, still bears the company name, and according to the expat, the same manager continues to operate from there.

The whistleblower hopes his experience serves as a warning to others, especially new expatriates seeking legal residency and business opportunities in Kuwait.

“There are many such offices in Farwaniya, Jleeb, Fahaheel, and Mangaf. They use reputable Kuwaiti names on the signboards, but inside, they are visa mafias run by greedy managers. Why is there no auditing? No consequences?” he asked.

He is urging authorities to implement stricter controls on company sponsorships, demand transparency in labor-related transactions, and crack down on visa trading, which is a criminal offense under Kuwaiti law.

In a landmark move, Kuwaiti authorities have revoked the nationality of 207 individuals after a meticulous, year-long investigation uncovered one of the largest cases of citizenship fraud in Kuwait’s history. The elaborate network involved falsifying family files and forging identities, largely connected to individuals of Syrian origin.

The investigation began in July 2024, following an anonymous tip-off implicating a man named Qassem, a naturalized Kuwaiti believed to be a Syrian national who fraudulently acquired citizenship. Qassem’s sudden flight from the country after being flagged raised immediate red flags, prompting a deeper probe.

His sister, married to a Syrian contractor and residing in Kuwait, was summoned for interrogation. She confirmed his identity and citizenship status but denied knowledge of his current location.

Investigators shifted focus to Qassem’s children, one of whom serves in a Kuwaiti security force. DNA testing involving his sister and her husband confirmed the children’s biological ties to a Syrian lineage, definitively proving the fraudulent claim to Kuwaiti nationality.

Further examination of Qassem’s official family registry revealed 22 listed “siblings.” Six of those—Qassem included—were complete fabrications. The other 16 were verified as genuine citizens, shocked to discover that fake names had been inserted into their official file without their knowledge or consent.

To uncover the identities of the remaining fraudulent individuals, Kuwaiti authorities partnered with Syrian agencies and the Central Agency for Illegal Residents (Bedoon). The trail led to five others—also of Syrian or stateless background—who had similarly vanished overseas to escape investigation.

By May 2025, two more individuals were positively identified. Their Kuwaiti citizenships, along with those of their spouses and children, were immediately revoked. For the remaining three, extensive DNA testing was conducted among their children and known relatives in Kuwait, linking them back to Syrian families and confirming the widespread nature of the fraud.

The Supreme Nationality Investigation Committee concluded its review by fully dismantling all the forged files. This included revocations from six separate fraudulent family registries:

• Jassim’s file: 40 people (revoked July 2025)
• Mohammed’s file: 31 people (revoked July 2025)
• Ahmed’s file: 32 people (revoked July 2025)
• Qassem’s file: 16 people (revoked earlier)
• Awad’s file: 23 people (revoked earlier)
• Saleh’s file: 65 people (revoked earlier)

The Kuwaiti government reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward identity forgery and manipulation of national records. Officials have pledged to pursue all past and future cases, regardless of the offender's current occupation, status, or location.

Authorities emphasized that Kuwaiti nationality is a matter of national security, and any individual found to have obtained it through deception will be legally prosecuted and stripped of status.

Conclusion

This sweeping crackdown reflects Kuwait's unwavering commitment to protecting the integrity of its citizenship system. With further investigations expected, this case has set a new precedent in cross-border cooperation, use of DNA verification, and forensic auditing of family files.

The operation not only serves as a deterrent to future fraudsters but also reinforces the state’s resolve to maintain trust in the national registry system.

According to recent data released by the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) as of June 30, 2025, Salmiya has emerged as the most densely populated region in Kuwait, with a total population of 331,462 residents. This surge underscores the growing demand for residential and commercial services in this coastal hub known for its retail, dining, and leisure offerings.

Trailing Salmiya is Al-Farwaniya, which recorded 309,871 residents, and Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh, home to 282,263 people. These two areas are commonly characterized by high concentrations of expatriate workers, limited living space, and heavy infrastructure loads. Their continued population density presents persistent challenges for urban planners and service providers.

Hawalli, a major residential and commercial district, holds the fourth spot with a population of 242,214. Its central location and proximity to key amenities maintain its appeal among both locals and expatriates.

In fifth place is Mahboula, which now hosts 230,854 residents. Its steady rise is attributed to ongoing real estate development and its strategic location near industrial zones and business hubs.

These updated population figures offer valuable insight into Kuwait’s shifting urban dynamics. They serve as critical input for:

• Urban planning: Strategizing housing and transportation development
• Resource allocation: Optimizing utility and health services distribution
• Public service delivery: Improving accessibility and quality across high-density zones

With areas like Salmiya and Mahboula showing substantial growth, the government and private sector must focus on scalable infrastructure and services to keep pace with rising demand.

The Technical Committee of the Municipal Council, led by Engineer Munira Al-Amir, has approved a comprehensive request by the Kuwait Flour Mills and Bakeries Company to broaden its operational scope across all bakery locations in Kuwait.

Following a detailed meeting, the committee recommended granting the company permission to introduce a wider range of food and beverage services at its current bakery sites. This decision aims to enhance the consumer experience while aligning with Kuwait’s evolving urban development goals.

• Retail sale of all food products manufactured by the company
• Serving hot and cold beverages
• Sale of pies, pastries, and sweets
• Operation of oven-based bakeries
• Operation of traditional tandoor-style bakeries

Additionally, the company has been permitted to utilize designated areas for the manufacturing and storage of industrial products related to its operations. This approval is conditional and requires clearance from the Ministry of Finance, Public Authority for Industry, and other relevant entities.

The approval is subject to specific conditions to ensure regulatory compliance and urban planning integration:

• Submission and approval of detailed activity layout plans by the Urban Planning Department
• Allowing technical staff to adjust activity labels according to the Ministry of Commerce and Public Authority for Industry codes
• Fulfillment of all contractual obligations with the Ministry of Finance and the State Property Department
• Revocation of any previous decisions that conflict with the newly sanctioned activities

Engineer Munira Al-Amir also confirmed the committee’s approval of a proposal by Engineer Alia Al-Farsi to launch an awareness campaign on Kuwait’s Fourth Master Plan. This initiative will be coordinated with relevant departments to educate citizens and stakeholders about the plan’s goals and implementation strategy.

Other Referred Proposals for Development

• Proposal to develop new residential cities and commercial/investment buildings
• Request to allocate several floors of Al-Hamra Tower for the development of an international hotel

This decision to broaden the operational framework of Kuwait Flour Mills and Bakeries Company not only boosts local food services but also reflects ongoing efforts to drive Kuwait’s economic and urban modernization.