The food and beverages category witnessed a notable annual increase of 4.98% in October 2024, reflecting its substantial impact on the overall inflation index.

Clothing Prices See a Sharp Rise of 5.56%

Clothing prices registered the highest growth among the main categories, rising by 5.56% compared to October 2023.

Housing Services and Home Furnishings Show Moderate Increases

Housing services experienced a modest rise of 0.57%, while home furnishings increased by 4.06% on an annual basis.

The cigarettes and tobacco group saw a slight rise of 0.15%, while transportation prices remained largely stable, not significantly influencing the overall inflation rate.

Excluding the food and beverages category, the inflation rate increased by 1.87% on an annual basis, indicating broader economic factors at play beyond essential goods.

The Saad Al-Abdullah Academy for Security Sciences, in collaboration with Kuwait University’s Research Sector, hosted a symposium today titled "Legal Dimensions of Biometric Fingerprints." The event, conducted under the patronage of Acting Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, delved into the intersection of biometric fingerprinting technology with international human rights agreements and Kuwait's local legislation.

Brigadier Ali Al-Wahib, Director General of the Saad Al-Abdullah Academy, inaugurated the symposium by emphasizing the critical role of biometric fingerprinting in modern security systems. He highlighted how the event simplified complex discussions around its legal, technical, and operational dimensions. The symposium attracted experts and specialists, ensuring a diverse exchange of knowledge.

Brigadier Al-Wahib further underscored how biometric fingerprinting aligns with international human rights frameworks while adhering to local legislative requirements. Attendees benefited from workshops, lectures, and practical demonstrations showcasing fingerprinting procedures.

Acting Director of Kuwait University, Dr. Osama Al-Saeed, reiterated the symposium's goal of bridging legal and technological perspectives. He stressed the importance of aligning biometric fingerprinting practices with global human rights standards while considering Kuwait’s domestic legal framework.

The collaborative initiative provided a platform for exploring the ethical, legal, and technical considerations surrounding biometric technologies, ensuring compatibility with security advancements and human rights principles.

In a press statement, the ministry emphasized its commitment to notifying subscribers about their financial obligations. Over the past week, alerts have been sent via the government application ‘Sahel,’ encouraging subscribers to promptly settle outstanding amounts.

Automated Disconnection Program Activation

The ministry further revealed plans to launch an automated disconnection program in early December. This initiative will target both residential and commercial accounts with unpaid dues. A follow-up notification will soon be issued through the ‘Sahel’ app, detailing the exact amounts owed by subscribers.

Payment Methods to Avoid Service Disruption

To ensure uninterrupted services and avoid transaction restrictions, the ministry urges subscribers to settle their dues promptly. Payments can be made through:

• The official website of the Ministry of Communications.
• Regional service centers using the K-Net payment system.

These proactive measures aim to streamline collections and enhance service efficiency for all users.

According to experts, there are several ways to distinguish between original and counterfeit products, starting with reading the authentication card, comparing logos, and examining the way the company’s mark is engraved on the product.

To protect from falling into the trap of imitation goods, consumers should arm themselves with these 7 tools:

1. View the invoice issued by the country of origin.
2. Receive the product guarantee certificate.
3. Review the authentication card of the product.
4. Ensure the accreditation of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
5. Ensure the existence of «trade» codes and numbers.
6. Verify the existence of the company’s trademark.
7. Enter the website of the producing company through «QR» code.

Property Rights:

Abdulaziz Al-Mutairi from the Container Department at Shuwaikh Port, Customs Department, confirmed that all goods and products exported to the port are carefully monitored to determine whether they are original or counterfeit.

Al-Mutairi explained that the verification process involves checking if there is any manipulation of the product documentation. This is done in coordination with the parent company, using the relevant numbers and codes from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. If any product is suspected of being counterfeit, it is immediately referred to the intellectual property authorities for further investigation.

Adding further, Al-Mutairi stressed that all counterfeit brands seized at the border ports are confiscated and destroyed at the merchant’s expense, with the cost of the destruction borne by the importer.

Al-Mutairi emphasized that none of the seized counterfeit goods are allowed to be re-exported or re-enter the country, ensuring that they cannot return to the market once confiscated.

Danger to the Consumer:

Nawaf Al-Ghaffar from the Air Parcels Department in the Customs Department explained that the General Directorate of Customs releases goods through a letter of authorization after thoroughly inspecting and confirming their authenticity.

This is done by verifying the invoice issued by the country of origin, which must be approved by the Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Al-Ghaffar pointed out that customs inspectors identify imitated goods and products by conforming to the specifications and complying with the original code of the product.

Brands:

Hajar Dashti from the Trademarks and Patents Department at the Ministry of Commerce emphasized that the protection of a product’s intellectual property begins after it is registered.

This registration grants the owner the legal right to prosecute anyone who imitates the product, as the state is committed to protecting intellectual property rights.

Importantly, Dashti added that the department actively monitors registered trademarks through judicial oversight, working to uncover counterfeit goods. This is achieved through market campaigns and responding to complaints from individuals. The department collaborates with commercial control and other relevant authorities to verify the authenticity of companies and brands.

Dashti pointed out that as a result of ongoing efforts to strengthen trademark management and enforce intellectual property laws; Kuwait was removed from the list of countries lacking intellectual property protection after 25 years.

This achievement was driven by increased law enforcement against the sale of counterfeit goods and the Ministry’s establishment of electronic platforms to manage intellectual property rights and trademarks.

Also work is currently underway to have Kuwait join the Paris Convention on Intellectual Property and Trademark.

Engineer Amna Diab from the Trademark Department highlighted that any citizen who unknowingly purchases a counterfeit product has the right to sue the seller.
Additionally, the owner of the original trademark can take legal action against the person or entity responsible for selling or distributing imitation products.

Diab stressed that the Trademark Department continues its ongoing campaigns targeting commercial establishments and shops to ensure that counterfeit goods and products are not sold.

Furthermore, Diab explained that employees have been granted judicial control authority to verify that trademarks and industrial models are properly registered with the Trademark Department.

The Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has unveiled a cutting-edge initiative to enhance road safety and enforce traffic regulations through the deployment of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) cameras. As reported by Al-Seyassah daily, Colonel Abdullah Bu Hassan, Assistant Director of the Traffic Awareness Department, announced that approximately 252 AI-powered cameras are being installed on public roads across the country.

Key Features of the AI-Powered Cameras

These state-of-the-art devices are designed to detect and record violations such as:

• Seat Belt Non-Compliance: Drivers and passengers not wearing seat belts will be penalized.
• Mobile Phone Use While Driving: The cameras will identify individuals using mobile phones while operating vehicles.

Colonel Bu Hassan stated in an interview with Al-Akhbar Channel:

“The installation process has already begun, and the cameras will become operational as soon as they are in place.”

He emphasized that the use of AI technology represents a significant leap forward in traffic law enforcement, contributing to safer roads for all.

Implementation of “Point to Point” Cameras

In addition to the AI cameras, “Point to Point” cameras are being introduced to calculate the average speed of vehicles between two fixed points. These devices enable authorities to:

• Identify drivers exceeding speed limits, even if they temporarily reduce speed near camera locations.
• Impose stricter penalties for repeat violations.

Stricter Penalties to Deter Dangerous Behaviors

As part of the Ministry's broader traffic safety measures, the fine for allowing a child to occupy the front seat will increase significantly from 5 Kuwaiti dinars to 50 Kuwaiti dinars. This hike underscores the Ministry's commitment to safeguarding young passengers.

Broader Objectives of the Initiative

The Ministry’s comprehensive approach to traffic monitoring includes leveraging technology to:

1. Reduce dangerous driving behaviors.
2. Enhance compliance with traffic laws.
3. Protect road users by minimizing accidents and fatalities.

Colonel Bu Hassan expressed confidence that these measures will foster safer driving habits among the public.

The Minister of Commerce and Industry, Khalifa Al-Ajeel, has issued a decision to halt the transfer of food truck licenses in Kuwait. The decision applies to both the sale and assignment of food truck licenses, aiming to regulate the food truck sector more effectively.

According to sources from Al-Rai, the suspension comes after a meeting between Minister Al-Ajeel and Abdul Latif Al-Mishari, the Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs. The two ministers discussed the need to control the transfer process of mobile cart licenses in Kuwait.

The primary focus of the meeting was the suspension of transferring food truck licenses. It was also decided that licenses for mobile carts which fail to meet location or other licensing requirements would be canceled. These measures aim to regulate the food truck industry and ensure compliance with the government’s guidelines.

The decision to suspend the transfer of food truck licenses is expected to have significant effects on mobile cart businesses. This move is part of the government's efforts to ensure that mobile vendors operate within the designated locations and adhere to the licensing rules, which include safety and health standards.

Food truck owners in Kuwait will no longer be able to sell or transfer their licenses to others unless they meet the requirements set by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This measure is intended to prevent misuse and ensure fair distribution of licenses.

The suspension of license transfers is part of a broader initiative by the Kuwaiti government to regulate the food truck industry and ensure compliance with zoning laws. These steps are being taken to balance the growth of mobile food businesses while maintaining order and safety in the city’s streets.

With these new regulations in place, food truck businesses in Kuwait will be required to follow stricter guidelines regarding their operations. Businesses that do not comply with these guidelines may face penalties, including the revocation of their operating licenses.

Kuwaiti Council of Ministers approved a critical decree-law aimed at curbing human trafficking and enforcing stricter regulations on the residency of foreigners. The law focuses on eliminating the trade in residency, addressing employer abuses, and imposing severe penalties for violations related to foreign residency and labor rights.

The new law introduces several measures designed to combat the trade of residency in Kuwait. It specifically outlaws the facilitation of foreign recruitment for financial benefits, such as offering or accepting payments in exchange for residency permits, entry visas, or renewals.

Employers are now prohibited from forcing foreign workers to engage in tasks beyond the scope of their work permits. Additionally, withholding wages from employees is illegal, providing greater protection to workers in Kuwait.

Under the new decree, it is illegal for anyone other than the sponsor to shelter or employ expatriates, whether their residency is valid or expired. Furthermore, building owners must refrain from renting properties to illegal residents, reinforcing the law’s stance on unauthorized foreigners.

Sponsors are now required to notify the Ministry of Interior if a foreign worker’s visa or residency expires and they do not leave the country. This measure aims to improve tracking and prevent the accumulation of illegal residents.

In an effort to adjust the country’s demographic balance, the law introduces a quota system for hiring foreign employees. Employers will not be allowed to exceed the quota for each nationality, ensuring a more controlled influx of expatriates into the workforce.

The new law includes provisions for severe penalties against individuals who violate its terms. It outlines clear procedures for the deportation and expulsion of expatriates who breach residency laws, ensuring compliance and promoting accountability.

The National Standing Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants previously presented 12 key recommendations to the cabinet. These recommendations, aimed at combating human trafficking and migrant smuggling, called for reforms such as allowing workers to change employers without approval and facilitating their departure from the country.

The committee has also emphasized reforms that would allow workers to change employers freely and leave Kuwait without requiring employer approval, thus improving worker autonomy and protecting against abuse.

In response to trafficking concerns, the government has called for increased inspections of both legitimate and fraudulent recruitment agencies. The new law also aims to ensure that domestic workers have better access to authorities, helping them report cases of trafficking more efficiently.

Stricter penalties for passport confiscation, the abolition of recruitment fees for workers, and enhanced oversight of the domestic worker sector are all part of the broader strategy to address trafficking in persons.

The Ministry of Electricity has announced maintenance work on secondary transformer stations across all six governorates. This work is scheduled to start on Saturday, November 16, and continue until Saturday, November 23. The maintenance is expected to ensure the stability and efficiency of electricity distribution across Kuwait.

The Ministry shared on its official platform, "X" (formerly Twitter), that the maintenance will result in power outages lasting four hours daily, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The affected areas and specific outage times are outlined in the attached maintenance schedule released by the Ministry.

The Ministry has further clarified that the duration of the maintenance period might be subject to changes based on the conditions encountered during the work. Adjustments may include either an extension or a shortening of the originally scheduled time frame.

The maintenance initiative reflects the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted power services in the long run. While the outages may inconvenience residents, these efforts aim to enhance the resilience of Kuwait’s power infrastructure.

The General Traffic Department has issued a temporary closure of key road exits starting today, Friday, November 15. These closures will affect drivers traveling from Ahmadi via King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Road (Road 40), particularly those headed towards Jassim Al-Kharafi Road (Sixth Ring Road) and the left exit leading to Al-Masilah and Jahra.

The closures will impact the exit ramp towards Al-Masilah and the left exit towards Jahra on the Sixth Ring Road. Commuters are advised to seek alternative routes to avoid congestion during the closure period.

The closures are expected to remain in effect until Sunday, November 17, 2024. Drivers are urged to plan their journeys accordingly, taking into account the ongoing traffic disruptions.

In response to the closures, traffic authorities have recommended alternate routes for those traveling from Ahmadi. Commuters can use other exits and nearby roads to continue their journey without significant delays.

The temporary closures may result in heavy traffic on alternative routes. The General Traffic Department advises drivers to remain patient and follow updated traffic reports for the latest developments. Additional roadblocks or changes in traffic patterns may be implemented during the closure period.

For real-time updates on road conditions and alternative routes, drivers can check the official Kuwait Traffic Department’s channels or traffic-related news sources.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) in Kuwait has announced an upcoming experimental siren test, scheduled for next Tuesday at 10:00 AM. The test will sound sirens across all areas of Kuwait, allowing citizens and residents to familiarize themselves with the alert system and its sounds.

This broadcast is part of the Ministry's proactive measures to ensure nationwide safety and emergency preparedness. By conducting these siren tests, the MoI aims to assess the alert system's coverage and functionality across Kuwait. Testing the system helps ensure it can effectively reach the public in case of real emergencies or urgent announcements.

The Ministry has encouraged all citizens and residents to familiarize themselves with the alert tones and messages communicated during the test. This effort is crucial in helping the public understand the nature of alerts and how to respond appropriately when a siren sounds.

On Tuesday, sirens will be activated at precisely 10:00 AM and will sound for a few minutes. The tones may vary to represent different types of alerts, ranging from warnings to all-clear messages. The Ministry of Interior advises that residents remain calm, as this is only a test.

Kuwait has previously conducted similar tests to ensure the reliability of its emergency alert systems. These siren tests play an essential role in keeping the public informed and prepared, aligning with the Ministry’s commitment to public safety.

To stay updated on future siren tests and other emergency information, residents are encouraged to follow the Ministry of Interior’s official website and social media channels. These platforms regularly provide updates, guidelines, and safety information relevant to the public.

The Cabinet has approved a draft decree appointing Sheikh Mubarak Homoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as Chief of the National Guard (KNG).

The Cabinet also approved a draft decree regarding foreigners' residency, aimed at addressing residency trade and enhancing control over expat visas.

• Prohibits residency trade, including the recruitment and facilitation of residency permits for financial gain.
• Mandates sponsors to notify the Ministry of Interior about expired visas or residency permits.

In the Cabinet's weekly meeting, the ministers discussed the recent visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed, praising the strong ties between the two nations.

The Cabinet also lauded His Highness the Amir's speech at the extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit, emphasizing Kuwait's stance against Israeli violations in Palestine.

Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah welcomed newly appointed Minister of Justice, Counselor Nasser Yousef Al-Sumait.

The Minister of Education, Jalal Al-Tabtabaei, briefed the Cabinet on the Ministry's plan to improve education in Kuwait, signaling a commitment to long-term educational reforms.

The Cabinet approved the minutes of the Supreme Committee for the Investigation of Kuwaiti Nationality, which addressed cases of fraudulent nationality acquisition.

On Monday, Kuwait's Minister of Education, Jalal Al-Tabtabaei, expressed serious concerns over the conditions he found in several schools in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area, part of the Farwaniya Educational District. According to educational sources, the visit revealed considerable disparities in readiness between these schools and others the minister had previously inspected, where conditions had been deemed satisfactory.

The inspection highlighted urgent issues, as several schools in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area were far from meeting basic standards expected at the start of the academic year. Minister Al-Tabtabaei voiced his dissatisfaction and pointed to a pressing need for more rigorous oversight and ongoing maintenance to ensure a safe and productive learning environment for students.

Minister Al-Tabtabaei has called on the Farwaniya Educational Department to intensify its monitoring efforts, with a focus on ensuring schools are well-equipped with essential facilities and maintained to the highest standards. Specific instructions include:

The minister emphasized the importance of ongoing inspections and routine follow-ups to quickly address maintenance issues. He directed that inspection teams be deployed to provide continuous oversight and timely intervention.

Schools should have access to the necessary tools, services, and facilities to ensure smooth operations, promote student comfort, and support uninterrupted learning. Minister Al-Tabtabaei stressed the importance of maintenance to prevent issues that could disrupt the academic year.

To foster clear communication, the minister called for regular reports from school principals, detailing school conditions and prioritizing any needs for repair and maintenance. This proactive approach aims to keep the ministry informed and enable timely responses to challenges that arise during the school year.

Minister Al-Tabtabaei underscored that ensuring school readiness is more than an administrative responsibility; it is a fundamental obligation to students. The Ministry of Education is committed to enforcing high standards across all institutions, ensuring each school offers a quality educational experience in a safe, supportive environment.

Minister Al-Tabtabaei’s recent inspection serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive oversight and equal preparedness across all educational institutions. The Ministry of Education's active steps to address issues highlight its dedication to maintaining high standards and ensuring a smooth academic year for all students.

The Kuwait Banking Association (KBA) has announced that all banks across Kuwait will be closed on Sunday, December 1, 2024, in observance of the 45th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit. This significant summit will bring leaders from the GCC member states to Kuwait, reinforcing regional cooperation and addressing key development goals.

According to the KBA’s statement, the decision to close banks on this date was made in coordination with the Central Bank of Kuwait, ensuring that both financial institutions and employees participate in honoring this important event. Regular banking operations are expected to resume on Monday, December 2, following the summit.

The Gulf Cooperation Council Summit, marking its 45th session this year, holds considerable importance for Kuwait and the wider GCC region. The summit provides a platform for leaders to address vital topics such as economic growth, regional security, and sustainable development among the GCC nations. Kuwait’s role as the summit host underscores its ongoing commitment to fostering unity and collaboration within the region.

The Ministry of Justice has unveiled a new service that enables users to obtain a "copy of the lawsuit document" exclusively through the Sahel app, the unified platform for electronic government services.

In a recent statement, Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Wasmi, the Minister of Justice, Endowments, and Islamic Affairs, announced the introduction of this convenient service. It is designed for both plaintiffs and defendants involved in legal proceedings.

The Copy of the Claim Document service allows users to download a copy of the lawsuit filed in several courts, including:

• General Court
• General Family Court
• Court of Appeal
• Family Appeal Court

After completing the payment of the applicable fee, users can instantly download the document, streamlining the process of accessing important legal information. This service is part of the broader "Images of Judgments, Lawsuits, and Statements" offerings available through the Sahel application.

The Ministry of Justice is dedicated to enhancing its digital transformation efforts and expanding services available through the Sahel app. This initiative reflects the ministry's commitment to serving the needs of litigants and making legal processes more accessible.

As the December 31, 2024, deadline for biometric data submission approaches, expatriates residing in Kuwait are reminded to complete their biometric registration. The requirement, which affects access to various governmental and banking services, is part of a larger initiative aimed at improving security and identity verification across the nation.

Biometric verification has been introduced to enhance security and streamline identity authentication within essential services. By linking biometric data with personal records, Kuwait’s government aims to reduce identity fraud, safeguard sensitive data, and improve service efficiency. The biometric data required includes fingerprints, facial recognition scans, and iris scans.

Failure to comply with the biometric data requirement by the December 31 deadline could result in restricted access to essential services, including banking, government support, and more. This restriction emphasizes the importance for all expatriates to complete their biometric submissions promptly.

To complete biometric submissions, expatriates can visit designated government centers equipped with biometric data collection facilities. Appointments can often be booked in advance to avoid delays.

This initiative aligns with Kuwait's broader security strategy, which includes steps to modernize digital identity systems and secure essential sectors, from financial services to governmental institutions. The use of biometric data ensures a higher level of accuracy in identity verification, ultimately benefiting residents and protecting national infrastructure.

Kuwait’s labor market has seen steady growth, with the total workforce now estimated at approximately 2.141 million workers, excluding domestic workers, as reported by Al-Seyassah daily. This marks a 2.5 percent increase from 2.089 million workers at the close of the second quarter of 2023. Despite this overall growth, significant wage disparities persist across gender and nationality lines.

In the government sector, Kuwaiti male workers earn an average monthly wage of about 1,966 dinars, showing a slight increase from 1,950 dinars a year ago. Female Kuwaiti workers in the same sector earn an average of 1,387 dinars, resulting in a significant wage gap of 41.8 percent compared to their male counterparts.

Non-Kuwaiti workers in the government sector have also seen slight increases in their salaries. Male non-Kuwaiti workers earn about 807 dinars on average, while female non-Kuwaiti workers earn 724 dinars, with a smaller gender wage gap of 11.4 percent.

Across both government and private sectors, the average salary for Kuwaiti employees is higher than that of their non-Kuwaiti counterparts. The average monthly salary for all Kuwaiti government sector employees is approximately 1,616 dinars, compared to just 340 dinars for non-Kuwaitis. In the private sector, male Kuwaiti workers earn an average of 1,648 dinars, which is 16.2 percent lower than their government sector peers, while female Kuwaiti workers earn 1,075 dinars.

Kuwaiti workers make up 15.4 percent of the total workforce, a slight increase from the previous year’s figure of 14.6 percent. Among them, approximately 377,500 are employed in the government sector, while 74,100 work in the private sector. Domestic workers represent a significant portion of Kuwait’s expatriate workforce, accounting for 26.9 percent of all expatriates, with 786,000 domestic workers. This figure marks a slight decrease from 788,000 a year ago.

Expatriates from India and Egypt Dominating the Workforce

Expatriates from India dominate Kuwait’s labor market, comprising about 30.2 percent of the workforce, or 883,000 individuals. Egyptian workers make up the second-largest group, comprising 16.2 percent of the workforce, with 475,000 workers.

Kuwait’s workforce is growing, with notable differences in wages and employment distribution across sectors, genders, and nationalities. While Kuwaiti workers make up a significant portion of the labor market, expatriates continue to play a crucial role in the economy. The ongoing wage disparities present challenges in ensuring equity in the labor market.

A significant archaeological discovery has been made on Failika Island, Kuwait, as a joint excavation team from Denmark and Kuwait has uncovered a well-preserved Bronze Age temple. This site, believed to date back to the early Dilmun civilization around 1900-1800 B.C., provides fresh insights into the region’s ancient religious and cultural practices. The discovery underscores the strategic importance of Failika Island in the Arabian Gulf during the early Dilmun period.

The Discovery: A Bronze Age Temple on Failika Island

The excavation team, led by the Mosgard Museum and supported by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature (NCCAL), has revealed a semi-complete temple that measures approximately 11 x 11 meters. The temple features multiple altars and has yielded several important artifacts, including pottery and seals. These findings confirm the temple's connection to the Early Dilmun Culture Period, shedding new light on the religious and societal structures of the time.

Significance of the Find: Insights into the Dilmun Civilization

The discovery of this Bronze Age temple on Failika Island is a game-changer for researchers studying the Dilmun civilization. Mohamed bin Raza, Assistant Secretary-General for the Archaeological and Museums Sector at NCCAL, emphasized that this discovery helps illuminate the human settlement patterns on Failika Island more than 4,000 years ago. The site's proximity to other significant structures, such as the "Palace" and the "Dilmun Temple," reinforces Failika Island's role as a key cultural, commercial, and social hub in the region.

The Temple's Role in Dilmun Society

Dr. Stephen Larsen, head of the Danish delegation, explained that the temple's layout offers important clues about religious practices during the early Dilmun period. The presence of altars suggests the temple was a site of ritualistic and ceremonial significance. Moreover, Dr. Hassan Ashkenani, Professor of Archaeology and Anthropology at Kuwait University, pointed out that the discovery of this temple next to a large administrative building signals the site’s importance as both a religious and administrative center for the Dilmun Kingdom.

The Dilmun Kingdom: An Ancient Power in the Arabian Gulf

The Dilmun civilization, which flourished in the Arabian Gulf region from around 3,000 to 1,000 B.C., was known for its trade networks and cultural influence. Failika Island, with its strategic location, was at the heart of this ancient civilization, which played a central role in connecting the cultures of Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and the Arabian Peninsula. The recent discovery deepens our understanding of Dilmun’s social, economic, and religious life.

Ongoing Excavations and Future Insights

Archaeologists expect further excavations at the site in the coming months, which could yield additional discoveries that will enrich our understanding of the Dilmun civilization. The continued support from the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature ensures that Kuwait’s rich cultural heritage is preserved and shared with the world.

Kuwait's government has made significant strides in combating human trafficking and migrant smuggling, following the recommendations of the Standing National Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants. The committee's recent action plan focuses on addressing critical issues such as migrant exploitation, the protection of victims, and reforming the employer-based visa system. These reforms are designed to strengthen Kuwait’s position in international human rights organizations and ensure a more transparent and humane system for migrant workers.

Key Recommendations for Tackling Human Trafficking

Reforming the Employer-Based Visa System

One of the most significant reforms recommended by the committee is the modification of Kuwait’s employer-based visa system. The proposal calls for allowing migrant workers the freedom to change employers at any time, as well as the ability to leave the country without the employer’s approval. This move is expected to reduce worker exploitation and give migrants more autonomy, potentially preventing cases of forced labor and human trafficking.

Increased Protection for Victims

Another crucial recommendation is to improve victim protection, ensuring that individuals who have been trafficked are not penalized for crimes committed under duress. The committee proposes measures to offer support to male trafficking victims and expand access to government shelters for those in need. These services will help prevent further victimization and ensure better treatment of those who have been exploited.

Strengthening Law Enforcement

The recommendations also emphasize the importance of robust law enforcement in combating trafficking. This includes increasing inspections of recruitment agencies, tightening penalties for passport confiscation, and prosecuting employers who engage in forced labor practices. The council has called for more comprehensive investigations into allegations of trafficking and forced labor, with a specific focus on administrative and criminal offenses under the Anti-Human Trafficking Act of 2013.

Key Steps for Implementation

National Referral Mechanism (NRM)

To ensure that trafficking victims receive appropriate care and support, the Standing Committee recommends fully implementing the National Referral Mechanism. This includes providing guidelines, adequate budgets, and additional training for all stakeholders involved, such as government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). By streamlining the referral process, Kuwait aims to ensure that potential trafficking victims are not overlooked.

Addressing Recruitment Fees

The committee has also advocated for the abolition of recruitment fees imposed on migrant workers. This practice often leads to significant financial burden and increases vulnerability to exploitation. By eliminating these fees, Kuwait aims to make the migrant worker experience more transparent and fair.

Raising Awareness and Preventative Measures

The committee plans to continue its efforts to raise awareness about the risks of trafficking, especially among vulnerable groups. Increased public education on trafficking, as well as the sanctions imposed on traffickers, will help empower individuals and reduce their susceptibility to exploitation.

Kuwait’s Commitment to International Cooperation

The Council of Ministers has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing human trafficking by aligning Kuwait’s efforts with international conventions and treaties. The committee’s recommendations are designed to ensure Kuwait meets global standards on human rights and trafficking prevention. This will also improve Kuwait’s standing in international organizations such as the United Nations, which monitors human trafficking worldwide.

British Airways (BA) has announced the indefinite suspension of its flights to Bahrain and Kuwait by the end of March 2025, citing unresolved issues with Rolls-Royce engines that power its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. This decision affects BA's longstanding presence in these markets, marking the end of nearly a century of service to Bahrain and over 60 years to Kuwait.

The Impact of Rolls-Royce Engine Problems

The suspension of these routes comes as British Airways continues to face ongoing challenges due to delayed engine parts from Rolls-Royce, a crucial supplier for its 787 fleet. BA has expressed significant frustration with the engine manufacturer, whose supply chain delays have exacerbated the airline’s operational difficulties. The problem is primarily linked to Rolls-Royce’s Trent 1000 engines, which have faced technical issues that have disrupted flight schedules worldwide.

Wider Cuts to BA’s Network

In addition to the Bahrain and Kuwait suspensions, British Airways is also scaling back services to other destinations. BA recently announced that it would discontinue flights to Dallas Fort Worth by the summer of 2025, and reduce services to Miami. These route reductions are part of a broader trend as the airline adjusts to rising operational costs and ongoing disruptions caused by restricted access to Russian airspace.

Delays and Challenges for British Airways’ Asian Network

British Airways’ operations in Asia are also under strain, with the airline deciding to cut its Hong Kong service by half and suspend direct flights from Heathrow to Beijing. The rising costs from airspace restrictions have played a pivotal role in these changes. Furthermore, the airline’s return to Kuala Lumpur has been delayed by at least six months, with the new service originally set to begin in October 2024.

Impact on Crews and Customers

The suspension of flights to Bahrain and Kuwait has far-reaching consequences for British Airways’ cabin crew and passengers. Cabin crew stationed in these countries may face redundancies, as BA scales back its operations. Customers, too, are in limbo, with no clear resolution to the ongoing engine delays and flight cancellations.

The Role of Rolls-Royce in the Disruption

The ongoing issues with Rolls-Royce engines have left British Airways grappling with significant operational challenges. Supply chain delays, particularly related to parts for the Trent 1000 engines, have disrupted the airline’s flight schedules and led to reduced service frequencies. While BA initially expected a brief disruption, it is now clear that these delays will last much longer, potentially until late 2025.

Looking Ahead: A Difficult Road for British Airways

As British Airways works through its engine issues and navigates the complexities of its global network, the airline’s customers and employees are left waiting for clearer timelines and solutions. The airline has pledged to address the technical issues with Rolls-Royce and is exploring options to minimize the impact on passengers and staff.