Starting April 13, major road closures will be implemented on King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Road (Fahaheel Expressway) as part of ongoing road development and maintenance efforts.

Two lanes on the Fahaheel Expressway, heading from Kuwait City toward Fahaheel, near the Sabah Al-Salem area, will be closed from April 13 until April 23.

Exit Closure from Sabah Al-Salem

During this period, the exit from Sabah Al-Salem to the Fahaheel Expressway will also be closed to traffic.

Additionally, the road parallel to the Seventh Ring Road, located opposite Abdullah AlMubarak, will be closed for the duration of the works, along with the area’s exit leading to the Seventh Ring Road.

Motorists are advised to plan alternate routes during this period to avoid disruptions.

Gold is a precious metal that has been prized for centuries. When buying gold jewelry, it's essential to ensure you're getting authentic, high-quality pieces. One of the most important indicators of gold's authenticity is its hallmark, which reflects the purity of the metal.

The hallmark is typically found on the inner part of the jewelry and certifies the karat of the gold. Avoid purchasing any gold item without a proper stamp, as it might not guarantee quality or purity.

• 24k Gold: Purest form, usually used for investment.
• 22k Gold: Popular for jewelry, especially in Middle Eastern and South Asian markets.
• 18k Gold: Durable and commonly used in stylish pieces.

DK Jewellers has been a trusted name in Kuwait since 1987. Here's what they shared with Arab Times about gold buying trends:

Which nationalities buy the most gold?

Customers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Nepal, Egypt, and other Arab nations. Indians top the list.

What karat do they prefer?

South Asians mostly prefer 22k gold, while Filipinos often opt for 18k.

Is gold safer in Kuwait?

Yes. Kuwait's Ministry of Commerce and Industry strictly regulates gold quality and stamping, ensuring high reliability compared to other countries.

Authentication Process

All pieces are tested and stamped by the Ministry before being sold, confirming the karat and quality.

Is buying gold online safe?

Yes and No. While online buying is convenient, most prefer in-store purchases for assurance and inspection.

Why is gold cheaper in Kuwait?

Kuwait offers the lowest gold prices in the GCC due to the absence of VAT and minimal import duties. This makes Kuwait a cost-effective destination for gold purchases.

Conclusion: Always buy stamped gold, understand karat levels, and choose trusted jewelers like DK Jewellers for secure purchases in Kuwait.

Minister of Public Works Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan has confirmed that intensive road maintenance in Mangaf is progressing as part of Kuwait’s strategic plan for radical highway and internal road improvements. The repair works are first focusing on the most heavily deteriorated areas before extending to locations with lesser damage. Ministry teams are directly supervising the implementation to ensure quality and compliance with international standards.

A committee has been formed to evaluate and select qualified engineers. These professionals will oversee the works and guarantee adherence to international specifications. Dr. Al-Mashaan emphasized the importance of infrastructure investment in enhancing economic development and quality of life, while supporting sustainable urban growth.

Engineer Abdullah Al-Kandari, Supervisor of Contract No. 15 for Ahmadi’s first zone, stated that ministry teams are now in Mangaf Block 3 to monitor ongoing maintenance. Tasks include:

• Laying an 8 cm layer of Type 1 asphalt
• Cleaning the sewage system in Dhaher
• Major maintenance on Roads No. 250 and 240
• Asphalt laying in Egaila Block 1

Engineer Mohammed Al-Buraiki confirmed completion of infrastructure repair and cleaning in Egaila, Fahad Al-Ahmad, and Mangaf. Asphalt work is complete in Egaila Blocks 3 and 4 and on Jaber Al-Ali Main Road No. 102. Major road work will soon begin in Mangaf Block 4 and Fahad Al-Ahmad Block 1.

These maintenance efforts contribute to Kuwait’s vision for smart cities and sustainable infrastructure. They improve road safety, reduce future costs, and enhance urban mobility.

Colonel Fahd Al-Essa, Director of the Traffic Awareness Department at the General Traffic Department, announced the launch of Kuwait’s new driving test vehicle system across all six governorates. This move aims to modernize the Education Sector’s infrastructure and enhance the driver licensing experience. The contract was awarded to Super Service Company.

The new vehicles are equipped with advanced technologies, including:

• Multi-angle surveillance cameras
• Wireless microphone communication
• Real-time monitoring capabilities

These improvements ensure safer, more accurate testing and reduce the burden on examiners.

Testers now have access to fully equipped waiting rooms with modern amenities, eliminating the need to wait in harsh weather conditions as was the case previously.

Driving schools can only provide training at their own premises and are no longer allowed to operate near testing centers. This helps streamline the process and reduce congestion.

Only vehicles with special permits for people with disabilities are allowed in the testing areas. All other private access is restricted. Official test fees have been defined for all vehicle categories in coordination with the General Traffic Department.

This initiative reflects Kuwait’s commitment to improving road safety, testing transparency, and examiner welfare while delivering a modern and comfortable experience for all test applicants.

In a significant move to enhance Kuwait’s road network and ease congestion, the Traffic Affairs Sector has announced the full reopening of Hussein Bin Ali Al-Rumi Road (Fourth Ring Road). This stretch extends from the entrance at King Fahd Road overpass in the direction of Salmiya, and became accessible to motorists starting dawn on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

The reopening of this key artery is expected to drastically improve traffic flow between Kuwait City and Salmiya, particularly during peak hours. Commuters traveling from western parts of Kuwait, such as Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh and Farwaniya, will now enjoy a faster, smoother route to Salmiya, which houses popular commercial and residential hubs.

The move aligns with broader efforts to upgrade road infrastructure and support ongoing urban development projects.

This reopening follows a series of successful infrastructure upgrades across Kuwait, including the recent developments on the Fifth Ring Road and improvements near the Sabah Al-Salem University City. The Ministry of Public Works and the Public Authority for Roads and Transportation (PART) have worked closely with the Ministry of Interior to ensure timely completion and safety of reopened roads.

The Ministry of Interior emphasized that traffic police will continue to monitor this newly reopened section to ensure safe driving practices and avoid any congestion or misuse of the road. Smart traffic systems and surveillance will also be employed to detect violations and manage flow during rush hours.

Motorists are urged to follow traffic rules, avoid speeding, and remain aware of lane markings and signboards which may have been updated following the reopening.

The complete opening of the Fourth Ring Road segment reflects Kuwait’s long-term transportation strategy aimed at:

• Enhancing road capacity
• Minimizing travel times
• Supporting economic activity through better connectivity

It aligns with Kuwait’s Vision 2035, which focuses on infrastructure development and smarter urban planning.

With the Fourth Ring Road now fully operational towards Salmiya, daily commuters, businesses, and logistics services can all benefit from this development. Authorities remain committed to making Kuwait’s roadways safer and more efficient through consistent upgrades and public announcements.

As part of the preparations for the upcoming new traffic law in Kuwait, the General Traffic Department is organizing a week-long awareness campaign starting next Sunday. The initiative is in conjunction with Unified Gulf Traffic Week and will include a wide range of events designed to educate the public on traffic safety and violations.

The campaign will kick off with a comprehensive traffic awareness exhibition at The Avenues Mall. This exhibition will feature interactive sessions, safety demonstrations, and informative booths to engage visitors on the importance of following traffic laws.

• Lectures and seminars on traffic safety
• Field visits to various government institutions related to road and traffic management

The Traffic Awareness Department will also be hosting a mini awareness exhibition at Al Khiran Mall on Thursday and Friday evenings. A unique feature of this event will be the opportunity for individuals to clear serious traffic violations.

Kuwait's participation in the Unified Gulf Traffic Week demonstrates its commitment to promoting regional traffic safety standards. The annual event brings together GCC countries to reduce accidents and raise awareness of responsible driving.

Authorities are encouraging residents and visitors to participate in the upcoming events to better understand the changes under the new law. The exhibitions at The Avenues and Al Khiran Malls aim to foster dialogue and provide useful information to the public.

As Kuwait's waste crisis worsens, environmental activists are urging immediate intervention to address the escalating environmental challenge. The country’s per capita production of organic waste has reached a staggering 1.4 kilograms per day, placing it among the highest globally, surpassing many countries in the Middle East and Europe.

Experts have long considered waste a major issue in Kuwait, affecting solid, liquid, and gaseous forms. The lack of effective management presents serious environmental and health risks, alongside economic consequences. Environmental advocates stress the necessity for sustainable and radical waste management policies.

Jenan Behzad, Secretary-General of the Kuwait Environment Protection Society, stated that the problem is worsened by high consumption rates and poor recycling practices. She recommends converting waste into electrical energy and developing policies that encourage recycling and waste sorting at the source.

Solid Waste and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Behzad revealed that solid waste contributes 2.4% of Kuwait’s greenhouse gas emissions. She emphasized the use of separate bins for plastics, paper, metals, and food waste at homes and businesses to enhance recycling efficiency.

According to a study by the Kuwait Environment Protection Society, food waste significantly increases during Ramadan and festive seasons. Across the Gulf, food waste accounts for nearly 50% of total waste. Activists urge for turning food waste into biofuel and methane to power industries, following models in Sweden and Germany.

Kuwait relies on three major landfills: Jahra, the Seventh Southern Ring Road, and Mina Abdullah. Yet, high plastic consumption, especially from restaurants and cooperatives, contributes to 80% of floating marine debris, harming marine ecosystems.

Although Kuwait’s Environmental Protection Law imposes fines up to 500 dinars for illegal dumping, studies show 58% of residents are unaware of these regulations. Behzad recommends stricter enforcement and mandatory waste sorting laws for institutions and households.

Engineer Alaa Hassan, CEO of IPSCO, called waste a “time bomb,” citing the accumulation of 8 to 10 million discarded tires annually. She emphasized recycling tires into industrial raw materials and involving the private sector in waste solutions to benefit Kuwait’s economy.

Environmental activist Barak Ramadan Al-Hindal stressed the need for a cultural transformation, advocating for waste sorting across homes, schools, offices, and hospitals. He highlighted the economic and job creation potential of recycling industries, encouraging the replication of successful global practices in Kuwait.

With mounting waste, increasing greenhouse emissions, and environmental degradation, activists insist that Kuwait must act now. Recycling, environmental education, private sector partnerships, and legislative enforcement can pave the way for a sustainable and eco-friendly future.

In a striking case of administrative negligence, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Education unknowingly paid KD 105,331 in salaries over 19 years to an expatriate Arabic language teacher who had resigned in 2004 and left the country by mid-2005.

The teacher, appointed on August 24, 2004, was meant to join the 2004/2005 academic year. However, she was absent starting from September 4, 2005, and records show she exited Kuwait on June 14, 2005. Despite her absence, her status remained active in the Ministry’s system, allowing salary transfers until May 24, 2024.

The school principal had alerted the Personnel Affairs Department and the Elementary School Supervisor multiple times, yet her name remained in the system. The case came to light only after the fingerprint attendance system was implemented on February 11, 2024.

An investigation confirmed the error, resulting in the suspension of salary and official termination. The entire amount was untouched in the bank account, showing no criminal intent. The Central Bank of Kuwait recovered the funds and returned them to the Ministry.

The case has prompted calls for better oversight and real-time system updates within the education sector. The Ministry pledged enhanced monitoring and frequent audits moving forward.

According to the circular obtained by Alseyassah/Arab Times, academic qualifications are assessed based on three critical criteria:

• Educational Level: Doctorate, Master’s, Bachelor’s, or Diploma
• Field of Specialization: Examples include Commercial Law, Biochemistry, etc.
• Status of Qualification: Unrecognized, Preliminary Recognition, Administrative Recognition, or Accreditation based on the Ministry of Higher Education’s equivalency standards

The updated manual mandates that employees reviewing work permit applications must verify the compatibility between the field of specialization and the profession listed. The educational level and accreditation status are automatically validated by the system, while academic documents are uploaded only if prompted.

For engineering professions, the system automatically verifies the necessary approvals. If the required approval is missing, the application is automatically rejected, and a digital note confirms the employee’s approval status. This automated process significantly reduces manual intervention and errors.

In contrast, for non-engineering professions that require pre-approval, employers must upload a copy of the approval as part of their application. This ensures that only qualified individuals are employed in specialized roles across industries.

PAM has also automated several work permit renewal services, eliminating the need for uploading academic documents or separate approvals. These include:

• Renewal of permits for migrant workers
• Renewal of permits for GCC nationals
• Renewal of permits for legally resident Bedoun workers

These simplified processes apply only if the renewal is for the same profession, ensuring a seamless continuation of employment without administrative delays.

Boosting Labor Market Transparency and Compliance

These reforms by PAM reflect Kuwait’s broader vision to enhance labor market regulation through digitization, transparency, and streamlined service delivery. By linking educational qualifications directly with job roles, the country aims to ensure that skilled and qualified professionals are placed in appropriate positions—minimizing mismatches and increasing efficiency.

The Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy has announced that starting Saturday, maintenance work will commence on several secondary transformer stations across all six governorates of Kuwait. This scheduled maintenance is expected to continue for one week.

In its official statement, released via its social media platforms, the Ministry explained that temporary power outages will occur in specific areas and during set time periods as outlined in the maintenance plan.

The exact timing and location of the outages will depend on the progress of the maintenance work. Adjustments may be made to the schedule based on field updates.

This action is part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance power infrastructure reliability and ensure the stability of electrical distribution during the high-demand summer months.

The Ministry has also called on all citizens and residents to reduce electricity consumption, particularly during peak hours from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Limit the use of heavy appliances during peak times
• Set air conditioning units to 26°C, as recommended by energy conservation guidelines
• Use energy-efficient lighting and appliances whenever possible

Ministry Reiterates Commitment to Service Improvement

The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to upgrading Kuwait’s electricity infrastructure, promising that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure minimal disruption during the maintenance period. Emergency teams will remain on standby to address any unexpected incidents.

The 2024 statistical report by the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) highlights five key regions—Salmiya, Farwaniya, Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh, Hawalli, and Mahboula—as Kuwait’s most densely populated areas. These urban zones now face increasing pressure for infrastructure development, improved public services, and efficient resource management.

According to the latest data:

• Salmiya tops the list with 321,190 residents, making it Kuwait’s most crowded region.
• Farwaniya ranks second, followed by Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh, Hawalli, and Mahboula, which recorded a population of 218,153.

These regions serve as major residential and commercial hubs, highlighting the need for strategic planning in transportation, healthcare, sanitation, and housing.

Kuwait’s Total Population in 2023

As of 2023, Kuwait’s population stood at 4.9 million, with notable gender and nationality disparities:

• Kuwaiti nationals: 49% male, 51% female
• Non-Kuwaitis: 66% male, 34% female

This gender imbalance among expatriates reflects the country's labor-driven immigration trends, particularly in sectors like construction and services.

Overall Population

• Under 15 years: 17%
• 15–64 years: 80%
• 65 years and older: 3%

Kuwaiti Nationals

• Under 15 years: 32%
• 15–64 years: 64%
• 65 years and older: 5%

These figures emphasize the demand for youth-focused services, including education, healthcare, and future employment opportunities.

Nationality Distribution

Kuwait remains a highly multicultural society with a strong expatriate presence:

• Kuwaitis: 31% of total population
• Indians: 20%
• Egyptians: 13%

The expatriate majority plays a vital role in Kuwait’s economy, particularly in the private sector.

Reference: World Bank - Kuwait Population

Kuwait's total workforce reached 2,247,029 in 2023, distributed between the public sector (23%) and private sector (77%).

Public Sector Employment

• Kuwaitis: 77.52%
• Egyptians: 7.25%
• Indians: 4.42%

Private Sector Employment

• Indians: 31.1%
• Egyptians: 25.4%
• Kuwaitis: Only 4.1%

These statistics underline the reliance on expatriate labor in the private sector and the government's focus on increasing Kuwaiti employment through initiatives like Kuwaitization.

The data underscores the urgent need for:

• Infrastructure expansion in high-density regions
• Diversified employment strategies to balance public-private workforce participation
• Youth-centric services given the growing younger population

The government is encouraged to intensify urban development strategies, bolster healthcare and education in overcrowded areas, and ensure sustainable labor market reforms to reduce reliance on expatriate labor.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has announced the enforcement of Decree-Law No. 5/2025, amending certain provisions of Decree-Law No. 67/1976 related to traffic regulations. The revised law, which comes into effect on April 22, 2025, introduces stricter penalties, including immediate arrests and significantly higher fines for major violations.

According to the General Directorate of Security Relations and Media, offenders can now face immediate arrest for the following serious traffic violations:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or psychotropic substances.
• Causing an accident that results in injury or death.
• Illegal road racing without a permit or violating an issued permit.
• Attempting to flee after an accident causing harm to others.
• Ignoring a police officer’s order to stop.
• Exceeding speed limits by more than 50 km/h.
• Driving an all-terrain vehicle in non-designated areas.
• Running a red traffic light.
• Using a vehicle for unauthorized purposes.
• Transporting passengers for a fee without a permit.
• Reckless driving, endangering oneself and others.
• Driving without a valid license, or with a revoked, suspended, or mismatched license.
• Operating a vehicle without official license plates.

In addition to stricter enforcement, fines for various traffic violations have increased significantly under the new law:

• Running a red light: Increased from KD 50 (USD 163.1) to KD 150 (USD 489.5).
• Reckless driving: Raised from KD 30 (USD 97.9) to KD 150 (USD 489.5).
• Parking in spaces for people with disabilities: Up from KD 10 (USD 32.6) to KD 150 (USD 489.5).
• Using a mobile phone while driving: Increased from KD 5 (USD 16.3) to KD 75 (USD 244.7).
• Failure to wear a seatbelt: Raised from KD 10 (USD 32.6) to KD 30 (USD 97.9).

The new traffic regulations are part of the government's broader initiative to enhance road safety, reduce accidents, and protect motorists and pedestrians. By imposing stricter fines and authorizing immediate arrests, authorities aim to create a safer driving environment across Kuwait.

Authorities encourage all drivers to adhere to traffic rules, emphasizing that these measures are designed to prevent accidents and save lives. The Ministry of Interior urges citizens and residents to stay informed about the latest traffic laws and drive responsibly.

In response to the Central Bank of Kuwait's (CBK) enforcement of new regulations governing exchange companies, a significant number of money exchange shops in Kuwait have ceased operations. These measures aim to enhance compliance with anti-money laundering standards and streamline the financial sector.

On June 11, 2024, the Council of Ministers issued Resolution No. 552/2024, transferring the supervision of exchange shops from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to the CBK. This was implemented through Ministerial Resolution No. 233/2024, which set forth new operational requirements for exchange businesses. License holders were given until March 31 to comply with these regulations.

Following the deadline, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, under Minister Khalifa Al-Ajeel, conducted inspections across Kuwait. Out of 138 non-compliant shops, only one in Fahaheel was closed by authorities; the others voluntarily suspended operations to meet the new standards. Director Faisal Al-Ansari praised these businesses for their adherence and urged them to coordinate with the CBK to regularize their status.

The requirement for exchange businesses to convert into companies with a minimum capital of KD 2 million poses a significant challenge, potentially leading to market consolidation. While many institutions already follow CBK procedures, such as verifying customer identities for transactions over KD 3,000 and utilizing KNet for payments, meeting the new capital requirements remains a hurdle.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry continues to monitor and enforce compliance, emphasizing the importance of meeting Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards for Kuwait's economic future. Exchange offices are required to apply for establishment as exchange companies with fully paid capital of no less than KD 2 million. Currently, 138 exchange offices operate under the ministry's supervision.

These regulatory changes reflect Kuwait's commitment to strengthening its financial sector and combating financial crimes.

Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, Kuwait’s Minister of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy, has reiterated the ministry’s dedication to strengthening its human resources and enhancing operational efficiency in the country’s electricity and water networks. His statement came during an inspection visit to the Al-Subiya Power and Water Distillation Plant, where he extended Eid Al-Fitr greetings to employees working during the holiday.

Accompanying him on the visit were Dr. Adel Al-Zamel, Undersecretary of the Ministry, and Mohammad Khazal, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Power and Water Distillation Plants.

During the visit, Al-Mukhaizeem expressed appreciation for the ministry’s employees, particularly those on duty during official holidays. He praised their dedication and commitment to ensuring seamless electricity and water supply across Kuwait.

The tour commenced at the Electrical Control Room (ECR), where the minister reviewed operational procedures, assessing the plant’s preparedness to handle the rising energy and water demands expected in the summer of 2025.

Talal Al-Shammari, Acting Director of Al-Subiya Station, provided insights into the plant’s operational capabilities. He highlighted that Al-Subiya contributes 7,100 megawatts of power—accounting for approximately 35% of Kuwait’s total energy production—and produces 100 million imperial gallons of water daily.

Key Areas of Inspection

• The Steam Turbine Hall
• The Thermal Control Room (TCR)
• The Distillation Units Control Room

Additionally, he observed the ongoing modernization work on one of the plant’s steam turbines, underscoring the ministry’s commitment to infrastructure upgrades and technological advancements.

The minister reaffirmed the ministry’s long-term strategy to ensure sustainable and efficient energy production, highlighting ongoing investments in infrastructure and workforce development. He emphasized the importance of adopting modern solutions to enhance operational efficiency and maintain service reliability.

As Kuwait continues to expand its energy and water capacity, the ministry remains focused on upgrading facilities, training personnel, and implementing cutting-edge technologies to meet future challenges effectively.

In a significant step towards digital transformation, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Justice has officially activated the electronic notification service via the unified government application "Sahel." The initiative, which commenced on Tuesday, April 1, aims to streamline legal notifications, ensuring faster and more efficient communication with concerned parties.

The Ministry confirmed the implementation of this service through its official account on X (formerly Twitter), citing a ministerial decision that authorizes the use of "Sahel" as a legally recognized method of electronic notification. Notifications sent through the application will be considered officially received once they reach the app’s server.

To facilitate a smooth transition and address user concerns, the Ministry of Justice has assured the public of round-the-clock support via the "Tawasul" service within the "Sahel" application. This initiative aligns with Kuwait’s broader vision of digital governance, promoting efficiency and accessibility in public services.

On June 11, 2024, the Kuwaiti Cabinet issued Resolution No. 552, which mandates the transfer of supervision and regulation of money exchange shops from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to the Central Bank of Kuwait. This significant transition aims to enhance the oversight of financial institutions involved in currency exchange operations across the country.

Following the Cabinet's decision, the Central Bank of Kuwait introduced Ministerial Resolution No. 233 of 2024, outlining updated regulatory requirements for money exchange companies and institutions. The new resolution aims to ensure greater compliance with financial standards, enhance transparency, and address potential risks in the financial sector.

Under the new regulatory framework, companies holding licenses for money exchange operations are required to adhere to the updated regulations. They have until March 31, 2025, to ensure full compliance with the new requirements.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has stated that it will suspend and prohibit the commercial activities of any institutions or companies failing to meet the regulatory requirements by the deadline. This step highlights the importance of adhering to the new regulatory framework set by the Central Bank of Kuwait.

The transfer of regulatory authority to the Central Bank of Kuwait is a crucial step in strengthening the financial sector’s oversight. Money exchange institutions must meet the specified deadlines to avoid penalties and ensure their operations are in line with the updated regulations.

Kuwait is seeking to borrow for the first time in nearly a decade, raising hopes for an economic shift to reduce its reliance on oil. This decision comes as Kuwait strives to catch up with its regional neighbors, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who have set ambitious goals to diversify their economies. Kuwait's wealth remains deeply tied to oil, but it is now turning to borrowing to finance major projects, such as a new port and airport, as part of a broader plan to diversify its economy.

Oil Dependence and the Need for Sustainable Revenue Sources

Sheikh Nawaf Al-Sabah, CEO of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, emphasized that the country cannot enjoy a sustainable future if oil remains the primary source of revenue. Rising budget demands and population growth require new sources of income beyond oil.

Kuwait’s welfare state has consumed around 80% of the state budget, primarily funding public sector salaries and subsidies. This reliance on oil revenues has left the country vulnerable to fluctuations in the oil market. The newly passed public debt law is a step toward alleviating this issue by allowing Kuwait to tap into international debt markets for regular financing.

Kuwait’s Public Debt Limit and Potential Impact on Economic Growth

The public debt law sets the maximum public debt at KD 30 billion ($97 billion). This significant increase in borrowing capacity aims to finance infrastructure development and economic transformation efforts, with experts like Carla Slim of Standard Chartered Bank suggesting that this move will allow Kuwait to raise funds regularly from international markets.

Major infrastructure projects such as the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, a new terminal at Kuwait International Airport, and large-scale road renovation initiatives have been announced. However, economists argue that Kuwait needs to develop a more comprehensive economic strategy that clearly defines the allocation of borrowed funds.

The Role of Oil Exports in Financing Development

Although Kuwait is diversifying its economy, it still plans to rely on oil exports for financing much of the infrastructure development. This strategy is aligned with the broader Gulf region's focus on leveraging oil revenues for national growth.

The passing of the public debt law has fueled optimism in Kuwait’s economic future. The Kuwait Stock Exchange has seen a two-year high, with Kuwaiti stocks outperforming those in Dubai and Riyadh so far this year. This increase in investor confidence reflects hopes that the country is finally moving toward much-needed economic reforms.

Overcoming the Challenges of Allocating Borrowed Funds

Despite the progress made with the debt law, experts believe that Kuwait must now focus on effectively allocating the borrowed funds. Clear and credible plans are needed to ensure that the country’s economic transformation efforts succeed.

While the newly passed public debt law marks a significant step toward reducing Kuwait’s dependence on oil revenues, the country still faces challenges in diversifying its economy. It will be crucial for Kuwait to implement a coherent strategy that balances fiscal sustainability with ambitious infrastructure development projects.

Kuwait’s Ministry of Public Works, under the leadership of Minister Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan, has initiated a large-scale road maintenance project in Jaber Al-Ali, located in Ahmadi Governorate. This initiative is part of the ministry’s commitment to enhancing road infrastructure and maintaining high-quality standards in alignment with international guidelines.

In a press statement on Friday, Dr. Al-Mashaan emphasized that thorough inspections were conducted before commencing the maintenance work. The project prioritizes repairing the most affected areas first, followed by general improvements across the region. The ministry’s teams will closely monitor progress to ensure the timely and efficient completion of the project.

Highlighting the significance of coordination, Dr. Al-Mashaan urged contracting companies to adhere to approved technical specifications and complete the work efficiently within the set timelines. The initiative includes resurfacing roads with a new asphalt layer to enhance durability and safety.

To minimize disruptions, the minister advised motorists to stay informed through the General Traffic Department regarding road closures and alternative routes. She also called on residents to cooperate with authorities and remain patient during the maintenance process to ensure the smooth completion of the project.

This development aligns with Kuwait’s broader strategy to improve road networks and infrastructure, ensuring safer and more efficient transportation across the country.

The Ministry of Interior has completed its preparations for enforcing the new traffic law, set to take effect on April 22. As part of these efforts, a public awareness campaign has been launched to educate motorists on the updated regulations and penalties.

According to Major Musaed Al-Aslawi, Head of the Traffic Awareness Department at the General Traffic Department, the latest traffic surveillance system includes artificial intelligence (AI) cameras, point-to-point speed monitoring systems, and mobile cameras. These advanced technologies are deployed at roundabouts, intersections, and internal and main roads to monitor various violations, particularly seatbelt use and mobile phone usage while driving.

1. Traffic Surveillance Cameras

• Total Units: 413
• Location: Intersections
• Functions:
  • Monitor traffic congestion and adjust signal timings
  • Detect mobile phone usage, failure to wear seatbelts, children sitting in the front seat, and lane violations

2. Fixed Traffic Enforcement Cameras

• Total Units: 421
• Location: Main and internal roads, intersections, and roundabouts
• Functions:
  • Monitor speeding and red signal violations

3. AI-Powered Traffic Cameras

• Total Units: 252
• Location: Most roads and internal areas
• Functions:
  • Detect seatbelt violations, mobile phone usage, children sitting in the front seat, and lane discipline issues

Captured footage from these traffic cameras undergoes a thorough review process before issuing fines. Once a violation is confirmed, a notification is sent to the violator via the Sahel application. Additionally, if multiple violations occur simultaneously, such as using a mobile phone while failing to wear a seatbelt, both infractions are recorded and included in the final penalty.

AI cameras specifically register seatbelt violations for both drivers and passengers, while mobile phone usage violations are only applied to drivers.

The Ministry of Interior aims to enhance road safety and traffic discipline by utilizing cutting-edge AI technology. With the new traffic law coming into effect, the traffic control system is expected to reduce violations and improve road conditions across Kuwait.

The Commerce Ministry's truth-seeking committee has announced an extensive review of raffle draws conducted by banks and commercial enterprises since 2015. The investigation aims to assess the lawfulness of these draws, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.

According to Adnan Abol, the head of the committee, the period under review could be extended based on emerging evidence and legal proceedings. This move underscores the ministry’s commitment to transparency and fairness in commercial activities.

As part of the investigation, the ministry plans to launch an online platform where the public can report suspicious raffle activities. This initiative seeks to empower citizens by allowing them to file complaints and share relevant information, reinforcing accountability and consumer protection.

In a related development, the Public Prosecution has ordered the arrest of a Kuwaiti national and five expatriates linked to the raffle draw scandal. Additionally, international arrest warrants have been issued through Interpol for other suspects involved in the case.

Authorities are intensifying their crackdown on fraudulent commercial practices, signaling a strict stance against any form of misconduct. The ongoing legal proceedings highlight Kuwait’s dedication to upholding integrity within its financial and commercial sectors.