On Sunday, Indian passengers traveling from Mumbai to Manchester via Gulf Air found themselves stranded at Kuwait Airport for over 13 hours due to an emergency landing. The flight, which made a stopover in Bahrain, was forced to land back in Kuwait just two hours after departure due to unforeseen circumstances.

Gulf Air Passengers Face Uncomfortable Wait at Kuwait Airport

Around 60 passengers, primarily Indian nationals, were left in limbo without adequate support from the airline during the delay. As the hours passed, frustrations mounted, and several passengers were seen arguing with airport authorities. Reports on social media highlighted claims of unequal treatment, as Gulf Air allegedly offered accommodation only to EU, UK, and American citizens, leaving Indian passengers without assistance.

Indian Embassy Takes Action to Assist Stranded Passengers

Upon learning of the situation, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait swiftly intervened to help the stranded passengers. A team of embassy officials arrived at the airport to coordinate with the airline and ensure the passengers' comfort. The embassy confirmed that passengers had been provided access to two airport lounges, as no hotel accommodations were available due to the ongoing GCC Summit, which had made it difficult for the Indians to obtain entry visas.

Challenges Faced by Indian Nationals During the Delay

With the public holiday in Kuwait, the stranded passengers were unable to shift to hotels, adding to their distress. However, after continuous efforts by the embassy, the airline agreed to provide lounge access, ensuring that passengers were taken care of during the lengthy wait. Embassy officials also communicated with Gulf Air, confirming that the flight to Manchester was scheduled to depart at 3:30 AM on December 2nd.

Final Update: Flight Departs After Extended Delay

The flight finally departed from Kuwait Airport at 4:34 AM on December 2nd, carrying the Indian nationals and other passengers to Manchester. The Indian Embassy team remained on the ground until the flight took off, ensuring that all stranded passengers were accounted for.

On Sunday, Indian passengers traveling from Mumbai to Manchester via Gulf Air found themselves stranded at Kuwait Airport for over 13 hours due to an emergency landing. The flight, which made a stopover in Bahrain, was forced to land back in Kuwait just two hours after departure due to unforeseen circumstances.

Gulf Air Passengers Face Uncomfortable Wait at Kuwait Airport

Around 60 passengers, primarily Indian nationals, were left in limbo without adequate support from the airline during the delay. As the hours passed, frustrations mounted, and several passengers were seen arguing with airport authorities. Reports on social media highlighted claims of unequal treatment, as Gulf Air allegedly offered accommodation only to EU, UK, and American citizens, leaving Indian passengers without assistance.

Indian Embassy Takes Action to Assist Stranded Passengers

Upon learning of the situation, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait swiftly intervened to help the stranded passengers. A team of embassy officials arrived at the airport to coordinate with the airline and ensure the passengers' comfort. The embassy confirmed that passengers had been provided access to two airport lounges, as no hotel accommodations were available due to the ongoing GCC Summit, which had made it difficult for the Indians to obtain entry visas.

Challenges Faced by Indian Nationals During the Delay

With the public holiday in Kuwait, the stranded passengers were unable to shift to hotels, adding to their distress. However, after continuous efforts by the embassy, the airline agreed to provide lounge access, ensuring that passengers were taken care of during the lengthy wait. Embassy officials also communicated with Gulf Air, confirming that the flight to Manchester was scheduled to depart at 3:30 AM on December 2nd.

Final Update: Flight Departs After Extended Delay

The flight finally departed from Kuwait Airport at 4:34 AM on December 2nd, carrying the Indian nationals and other passengers to Manchester. The Indian Embassy team remained on the ground until the flight took off, ensuring that all stranded passengers were accounted for.

The Ministry of Interior has officially announced the reopening of all roads that were temporarily closed during the 45th Gulf Summit. In a statement, the Ministry expressed its appreciation to citizens and residents for their understanding and cooperation during the period of road closures, ensuring a smooth flow of the event.

Temporary Road Closures During the 45th Gulf Summit

As part of the security measures for the 45th Gulf Summit, several roads in Kuwait were temporarily closed to ensure the safety and security of the event. These closures were necessary to manage traffic and protect attendees during the high-profile summit.

Citizens and Residents' Cooperation

The Ministry thanked citizens and residents for their commitment to the instructions during the closure period. The public's cooperation played a significant role in minimizing disruption and ensuring the success of the summit's security measures.

Reopening of Roads and Normal Traffic Resumption

With the conclusion of the summit, all previously closed roads have now been reopened, allowing for the return of normal traffic flow across the city. The Ministry encourages residents to remain attentive to any potential temporary changes in road access for future events.

Ministry's Ongoing Efforts for Traffic Management

The Ministry of Interior continues to monitor road conditions and traffic patterns to improve the overall transportation network in Kuwait. Efforts are underway to enhance traffic management during major events to ensure safety and convenience for everyone.

The Ministry of Interior has announced temporary closures on the Arabian Gulf Road tomorrow morning, in preparation for the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon 2024. These closures will affect traffic along certain sections of the road on Saturday, December 2, 2024, during the marathon event.

Details of Road Closures

Closure of Arabian Gulf Road - Souq Sharq to Sheikh Jaber Cultural Center

From 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM, the section of the Arabian Gulf Road between Souq Sharq and the Sheikh Jaber Cultural Center will be closed to traffic in both directions. Motorists are advised to take alternate routes during this time.

One-Way Closure from Green Island to Souq Sharq

In addition to the full closure between Souq Sharq and Sheikh Jaber Cultural Center, a one-way closure will also take place between Green Island and Souq Sharq. This section will be closed from 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM, in line with the marathon's route.

Public Advisory for Motorists

The Ministry urges the public, especially drivers, to follow traffic regulations during the closure period. Alternative routes will be clearly marked to help avoid congestion. For emergencies or additional assistance, motorists are encouraged to call the emergency hotline 112.

Amiri Decree 114/2024, issued on Thursday, introduces significant reforms to Kuwait's foreign residency laws. This decree, consisting of 36 articles across seven chapters, updates the previous decree 17/1959, which had been in effect for over six decades. These changes aim to address gaps in the law and respond to evolving challenges in residency and immigration policies in Kuwait.

Chapter 1: Entry Regulations for Foreigners

The first chapter of the decree focuses on the entry of foreigners into Kuwait. The law specifies that all foreign nationals must possess a valid passport or equivalent documentation issued by their home country for entry and exit. However, GCC citizens are exempted from the passport requirement and may use personal identification cards based on agreements between Kuwait and other GCC countries.

Additionally, foreigners are required to enter and exit Kuwait through designated ports specified by the Ministry of Interior.

Chapter 2: Residency for Children Born in Kuwait

Chapter two establishes rules for residency for foreign-born children in Kuwait. It mandates that parents must notify the authorities within four months of their child’s birth, submitting the child's passport or travel documentation to obtain residency papers or a leave deadline.

Chapter 3: Residency Permits for Foreigners

The third chapter focuses on residency permits for foreigners. To reside in Kuwait, non-Kuwaiti individuals must apply for residency permits from the Ministry of Interior. Kuwaiti citizens may also request residency permits for their non-Kuwaiti spouses and children, with certain exceptions outlined in previous laws, such as for women who acquire citizenship through marriage.

Moreover, foreigners on visit visas must depart Kuwait within three months unless they secure residency.

Chapter 4: Penalties for Residency Trafficking

Chapter four lays out penalties for residency trafficking and related crimes. The decree imposes severe penalties for individuals involved in illegal residency practices, reinforcing Kuwait's stance against trafficking in residency permits.

Chapter 5: Deportation and Eviction Rules

The fifth chapter addresses the deportation and eviction of foreigners. The Minister of Interior is empowered to order the deportation of any foreigner, even if they hold a valid residence permit, under specific circumstances. Foreigners subject to deportation can be detained for up to 30 days, with the possibility of extension.

Employers are required to bear the cost of deportation for employees and those they harbor, reinforcing accountability for the presence of foreigners in Kuwait.

Chapter 6: Violations and Penalties

Chapter six details the penalties for violating residency laws. The Public Prosecution has exclusive authority to investigate and prosecute those involved in residency trafficking. The chapter also includes provisions for reconciling minor violations, where reconciliation may be permitted based on specific conditions.

Chapter 7: General Provisions and Exceptions

Chapter seven includes various general provisions and exceptions. Certain individuals are exempt from the law, such as heads of state, diplomats, and those holding political or diplomatic passports, depending on reciprocal agreements. The chapter also outlines the continuation of regulations under Amiri Decree No. 17/1959 until the new regulations are implemented within six months.

According to informed sources from the Ministry of Public Works, emergency teams have been deployed across all six governorates to manage the impact of the current rainfall. The Ministry is working closely with the Public Authority for Roads and Transportation (PART) to ensure swift action.

No Major Disruptions in Traffic

The sources confirmed that there have been no significant water accumulations or flooding on internal roads or expressways that could disrupt traffic. The rainfall has remained within the capacity of the ministry’s drainage network, allowing for effective management of water flow.

Collaboration with Other Government Agencies

The Ministry of Public Works continues to coordinate with other government agencies to address any challenges posed by rainwater accumulation. The Ministry remains proactive by monitoring weather forecasts from the Meteorological Department to ensure continuous readiness for future weather conditions.

Public Assistance and Reporting Channels

The Ministry urges the public to report any water accumulation or related issues by contacting the Ministry’s hotline at 150 or through WhatsApp for quick resolution.

Kuwait Fire Force on High Alert

In a related development, the Kuwait Fire Force (KFF) is on high alert, ready to respond to any emergencies reported to its operations room concerning the rainfall. The KFF has deployed teams across various fire stations to ensure quick response to potential emergencies.

Traffic and Public Safety Measures

In addition, security personnel, patrol teams, and rescue teams have been deployed to manage traffic flow and ensure the safety of the public during the ongoing weather conditions. The coordinated efforts aim to mitigate any possible disruptions caused by the rainfall.

Military Preparedness: Ghaith Task Force on Standby

The Kuwait Army has announced that the Ghaith Task Force is on standby, fully prepared to provide logistical and humanitarian support in response to the heavy rainfall and current weather conditions. This task force is ready to assist with any necessary operations.

Fraudsters are increasingly using sophisticated tactics to deceive individuals into unknowingly opening electronic bank accounts for fraudulent activities, including money laundering.

Target Groups: Students and Vulnerable Individuals

The fraudsters primarily target students and individuals with limited awareness of financial security measures, exploiting their lack of knowledge to open illicit accounts.

The Role of Authentication Services in Fraudulent Activities

Hackers are using authentication services to gain access to victims’ data and exploit their accounts for criminal purposes. Victims are unaware that their accounts are being used for money laundering.

WhatsApp Scams: A New Threat in Financial Fraud

WhatsApp scams are on the rise, where fraudsters hack accounts and exploit contacts by sending fraudulent payment requests or using personal data for extortion.

Coordinated Efforts by Authorities to Combat Fraud

The Central Bank of Kuwait, in collaboration with local banks and the Kuwait Banking Association, is taking steps to combat financial fraud and raise awareness among the public.

Key Steps in Fraudulent Operations

• Deceiving victims into opening electronic accounts through fraudulent means.
• Exploiting the speed of account creation for illegal activities.
• Using unrelated phone numbers linked to victims’ accounts.
• Unwitting involvement of victims in money laundering.

Preventive Measures and Awareness Campaigns

To prevent such scams, authorities are implementing stricter security measures and launching awareness campaigns to educate the public on how to avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.

The regulations are designed to enforce strict control over expatriate residency and impose severe penalties for violations related to residency and employment practices.

Summary of Main Regulations:

• Reporting loss or damage of passports: Expatriates must notify the Ministry of Interior within two weeks if their passport is lost or damaged.
• Hotel and Accommodation Reporting: Hotels and providers of furnished accommodations must report the arrival and departure of foreign guests within 24 hours.
• Visit Duration: Expatriates visiting Kuwait can stay for a maximum of three months unless granted an extension or a residency permit.
• Residency Duration: Temporary residency permits are limited to three months but may be extended for up to one year. Regular residency is capped at five years, with exceptions allowing up to ten years for children of Kuwaiti women, and property owners, and up to 15 years for investors.
• Domestic Workers: Domestic workers are not allowed to remain outside Kuwait for more than four months without prior permission from the Ministry of Interior.
• Notification by Sponsors: Sponsors must inform the ministry if a foreigner’s visa expires or if the foreigner overstays their permitted duration.

Penalties for Violations:

• Individuals who fail to comply with the reporting requirements can face fines of up to KD 2,000.
• Hotel managers and transport operators who fail to comply with regulations may face fines of up to KD 400.
• Residency and Visit Violations: Residency violations can result in up to one year in prison and fines of up to KD 1,200. Visit-related violations may incur fines of up to KD 2,000.
• Illegal Entry: Individuals involved in illegal entry may face imprisonment for up to three years and fines up to KD 3,000.
• Employment Misconduct: Employing foreigners unlawfully or failing to pay dues can lead to up to two years in prison and fines of up to KD 10,000.
• Residency Trafficking: Residency trafficking is punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of up to KD 10,000.

Regulations on Visit Visas and Residence Permits:

• Expatriates must have valid travel documents and enter Kuwait through authorized checkpoints. They are required to carry valid residency permits and are not allowed to remain outside the country for more than six months without prior approval. Sponsors are accountable for reporting any violations related to visas or residency.
• Unauthorized employment or permitting expats to work for others without proper authorization is strictly prohibited.

Prohibitions and Penalties

• Residency Trafficking: Exploiting the residency system is punishable by:
  • Up to three years in prison and a fine of KD 10,000.
  • Increased penalties by double for repeat offenders or public officials involved in such activities.
• Illegal Employment and Harboring: Providing shelter or employment to expatriates without valid residency or work permits is prohibited.
• Public Officials: Stricter penalties apply for violations involving public officials acting within their official capacity.

General Provisions:

• Diplomats, heads of state, and other designated individuals are exempt from certain residency requirements.
• The residency regulations are per international agreements signed by Kuwait.
• Transitional provisions ensure that existing regulations remain in force until the new rules are implemented.

This law underscores Kuwait’s commitment to regulating expatriate residency and upholding national security and public order. Its comprehensive provisions are designed to prevent system abuse and protect both the rights of residents and the integrity of the country’s legal framework.

Details of the Chapters and Articles of the New Decree-Law Approved by the Council of Ministers

Chapter One: Entry of Foreigners

• Article 1: Foreigners entering or leaving Kuwait must possess a valid passport issued by their country of origin or recognized authority. Nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are exempt from this requirement and may enter using their ID cards, per regulations established by the Ministry of Interior in coordination with GCC member states.
• Article 2: The types of visas and the procedures for obtaining them will be specified in a decision issued by the Minister of Interior.
• Article 3: Citizens of certain countries, as determined by decree and based on the recommendation of the Minister of Interior, may be exempt from visa requirements, provided that reciprocity is maintained.
• Article 4: All entry and exit must occur through designated points of entry, and the procedures established by the Ministry of Interior must be followed.
• Article 5: Captains of ships and aircraft, and drivers of buses and cars, are required to submit detailed lists of crew members and passengers upon arrival or departure. They must report any individuals without valid travel documents to the relevant authorities and prevent them from boarding or disembarking.

Chapter Two: Notification to Relevant Authorities

• Article 6: Foreigners with children born in Kuwait must submit the child’s passport or travel document to the Ministry of Interior within four months to obtain a residency permit or arrange for the child’s departure.
• Article 7: Foreign residents are required to present their passports or equivalent travel documents upon request and must report any loss or damage to these documents within two weeks.
• Article 8: Managers of hotel and furnished accommodations must notify the Ministry of Interior within 24 hours regarding the arrival and departure of foreign guests. Police officers authorized by the ministry will inspect the records, report any violations, and take appropriate legal action.

Chapter Three: Residency of Foreigners

• Article 9: Foreign nationals wishing to reside in Kuwait must obtain a residency permit from the Ministry of Interior.
• Article 10: Kuwaiti citizens can secure residency permits for their foreign spouses. Kuwaiti women, excluding those who acquired citizenship through marriage, may also obtain residency permits for their foreign husbands and children. Widows or divorcees with children from Kuwaiti men are entitled to residency permits.
• Article 11: Foreign visitors may stay in Kuwait for up to three months unless they obtain a residency permit.
• Article 12: Temporary residency may be granted for up to three months, with the possibility of renewal for up to one year. For extended stays, regular residency permits must be obtained, under terms set by the Ministry of Interior.
• Article 13: Foreign nationals may be granted a regular residence permit for up to five years. However, certain groups, including children of Kuwaiti women and property owners in Kuwait, may qualify for permits lasting up to ten years, as determined by the Minister of Interior. Investors, under law No. 116/2013 concerning direct investment, may be eligible for permits lasting up to 15 years.

Chapter Four: Residence Trafficking and Related Crimes

• Article 18: Engaging in residency trafficking is strictly prohibited. This includes exploiting or facilitating the recruitment of foreign individuals by issuing or renewing entry visas or residence permits in exchange for monetary compensation, benefits, or promises.

Chapter Five: Deportation and Exit Regulations for Foreigners

• Article 20: The Minister of Interior is authorized to order the deportation of a foreigner within a specified period, even if the individual holds a valid residence permit, under the following conditions:
  • If the individual lacks a legitimate source of income.
  • If the individual violates the provisions outlined in Article 19 of this decree-law.
  • If the Minister determines deportation is necessary for reasons related to public interest, security, or morality.

Chapter Six: Penalties

• Article 27: The following penalties apply for violations of the specified articles:

Kuwait has achieved an impressive third-place ranking globally and in the Arab world for mobile internet speed, as per the October 2024 Speed Test Global Index. With an average speed of 258.51 Mbps, Kuwait emerges as a global leader in mobile connectivity, reflecting significant advancements in its telecommunications infrastructure.

Top Performers in the Arab World

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) leads both globally and regionally, delivering an exceptional average speed of 428.53 Mbps. Qatar secures the second position worldwide and regionally with 356.7 Mbps, reinforcing the Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) dominance in mobile internet excellence.

GCC Nations Showcase Digital Leadership

The GCC countries have collectively demonstrated strong performances, solidifying their status as hubs of technological innovation:

• Saudi Arabia: Fourth in the Arab world and 11th globally, achieving 121.9 Mbps.
• Bahrain: Fifth regionally and 13th globally, with an average speed of 116.6 Mbps.
• Oman: Sixth in the Arab world and 29th globally, delivering a speed of 89.3 Mbps.

These results underline the GCC's commitment to fostering high-speed internet services through substantial investments in digital infrastructure.

Broader Arab World Performance

Outside the GCC, several Arab nations also made notable strides in the index:

• Morocco: Seventh in the Arab world and 67th globally, averaging 42.5 Mbps.
• Iraq: Eighth regionally and 77th globally, achieving 34.7 Mbps.
• Lebanon: Ninth regionally and 83rd globally, delivering 30.8 Mbps.
• Tunisia: Completing the top ten in the Arab region, ranking 90th globally with 26.16 Mbps.

Kuwait's Commitment to Connectivity

Kuwait's global ranking highlights its dedication to building state-of-the-art telecommunications infrastructure and ensuring high-speed mobile internet access for residents and businesses. This progress not only enhances daily connectivity but also positions Kuwait and the broader GCC region as leaders in the global digital landscape.

Regional Impact of Digital Innovation

The GCC’s strong showing underscores its ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology and digital transformation. By fostering innovation, the region boosts economic growth, supports smart city development, and enhances the quality of life for its residents.

The Kuwaiti Council of Ministers, during its session on November 12, approved a draft decree law addressing the residency of foreigners in Kuwait. The new legislation introduces severe penalties for those involved in residency trafficking and violations, including prison sentences of up to five years and fines amounting to 10,000 Kuwaiti dinars.

Key Provisions of the Law

Chapter One: Entry of Foreigners

• Article 1: Foreigners must hold a valid passport or travel document to enter Kuwait, with GCC nationals exempt from this requirement.
• Article 2: Details for obtaining entry visas will be outlined by the Minister of Interior.
• Article 3: Some countries may have exemptions for entry visas, based on the Interior Minister's recommendations.
• Article 4: Entry and exit must occur through designated locations as per the Ministry of Interior procedures.
• Article 5: Captains and drivers must provide passenger and crew lists to authorities upon arrival or departure.

Chapter Two: Notification of Competent Authorities

• Article 6: Foreigners with children born in Kuwait must notify the Ministry of Interior within four months.
• Article 7: Foreign residents must report the loss or damage of their documents within two weeks.
• Article 8: Hotel managers must notify the Ministry of Interior of foreign guest arrivals and departures within 24 hours.

Chapter Three: Residency of Foreigners

• Article 9: Foreign nationals must obtain a residency permit to reside in Kuwait.
• Article 10: Kuwaiti citizens can secure residency for their foreign spouses, children, and in some cases, widows or divorcees.
• Article 11: Foreign visitors may stay up to three months without a residency permit.
• Article 13: Regular residency permits may be granted for up to five years, with some exemptions for children of Kuwaiti women and investors.
• Article 14: Domestic workers may be granted residency based on their employment contract duration.

Chapter Four: Residence Trafficking and Associated Crimes

• Article 18: Engaging in residency trafficking for monetary compensation or benefits is strictly prohibited.
• Article 19: Employers must not assign workers to tasks other than those specified during recruitment.

Chapter Five: Deportation and Exit Regulations for Foreigners

• Article 20: Foreigners may be deported for lacking a legitimate income, violating laws, or for public interest concerns.
• Article 23: Foreigners without valid residency permits will be expelled, and deportation costs will be covered by the employer or violating party.

Chapter Six: Penalties

• Article 27: Violations of residency laws will incur fines ranging from 200 to 10,000 Kuwaiti dinars depending on the severity of the violation.
• Article 28: Residency trafficking violations lead to imprisonment for three to five years and fines up to 10,000 Kuwaiti dinars.

Chapter Seven: General Provisions and Exemptions

• Article 32: Heads of State, diplomats, and their families are exempt from the application of this law.
• Article 33: This law does not override international residency agreements Kuwait is a party to.

Key Prohibitions Under the Decree-Law

• Residency trafficking through recruitment for money or benefits.
• Employment violations where workers are employed for unauthorized purposes.
• Refusal to pay a worker’s dues under their employment contract.
• Unauthorized work by foreign workers outside their approved employer.
• Housing or employing foreigners without valid residency permits.

Conditions for Deportation of Foreigners

• Deportation may occur if a foreigner lacks a legitimate source of income or violates employment laws.
• Deportation may extend to family members dependent on the foreigner.
• Employers or individuals responsible for illegal sheltering must bear deportation costs.

Penalties for Residency Trafficking Violations

• Imprisonment for 3 to 5 years and fines ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 Kuwaiti dinars.
• Legal entities found guilty of trafficking face fines and revocation of business licenses.

The Ministry of Interior has recently issued an alert about advertisements from unverified sources that promise huge discounts on products and services. These ads may contain malware that could compromise users' devices and personal information.

How to Safeguard Yourself from Malicious Apps and Websites

To ensure a secure online shopping experience, the Ministry strongly advises consumers to download shopping apps only from official sources. Stick to reputable app stores linked to Android and iOS platforms to avoid malicious software that can harm your device.

Verify Online Purchase Links

Consumers are also urged to verify that online purchase links are legitimate and not part of counterfeit sites pretending to be trusted retailers. Always check the website’s URL and security certifications before making a purchase.

Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi for Payments

Another critical warning issued by the Ministry is to avoid conducting financial transactions over public Wi-Fi networks. These networks are often vulnerable to hacking attempts, putting your sensitive information at risk. It is recommended to use secure, private networks when making payments online.

Additional Tips for Safe Online Shopping

By following these simple precautions, shoppers can significantly reduce their chances of falling victim to online scams and ensure a safer, more secure shopping experience.

The MY KUWAIT ID application offers users varying levels of verification to ensure the security of their personal data. Each level provides access to different features, depending on the chosen registration method.

Overview of MY KUWAIT ID Verification Levels

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) defines three levels of verification within the MY KUWAIT ID app: Medium, High, and Verified. Each level is designed to meet different security and functionality standards. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Medium Verification: Manual Data Entry

Medium verification involves registering by manually entering personal data. This level offers basic functionality for users.

Available Features:

• Civil ID
• Card Verification
• Portfolio of Government Documents

High Verification: NFC Scanning of Civil ID

High verification is the most commonly used method and requires scanning your Civil ID using NFC (Near Field Communication) technology.

Available Features:

• Civil ID
• Portfolio of Government Documents
• Card Verification
• Authentication Feature

Verified Level: Self-Service Devices for Registration

The Verified level involves registering through self-service devices for the highest level of security and access to advanced features.

Available Features:

• Civil ID
• Card Verification
• Portfolio of Government Documents
• Authentication Feature
• Electronic Signature (for relevant categories and sectors)

The Public Authority for Manpower has announced a significant change to the regulations regarding the transfer of workers within the small and medium enterprises (SME) sector. The required period for transferring workers within this sector has been reduced from three years to just one year. However, this change is conditional upon the approval of the worker’s sponsor.

Limitations on Transfers to the Private Sector

One crucial clarification that came with the new update is that transfers from the SME sector to the private sector are still not permissible. This decision aims to prevent workers from moving between sectors without proper adherence to regulations. The Public Authority for Manpower emphasized the importance of maintaining balance and ensuring that transfers within the SME sector itself are carried out within the revised one-year time frame.

Addressing Challenges in the SME Sector

The modification in transfer regulations is designed to address some of the operational challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses. Many SMEs experience difficulties due to underperforming projects or the inability to fully utilize their workforce. This change in the transfer period is expected to give businesses more flexibility in managing their staff and improve overall productivity.

How the Adjustment Benefits SMEs and Workers

By reducing the transfer period to just one year, the Public Authority for Manpower is providing SMEs with more agility in responding to business needs. Companies can now transfer workers to different roles within the sector more quickly, enabling them to adapt to changing market conditions or operational demands. Additionally, workers benefit from the ability to find more suitable roles within the sector if their current positions become redundant or unfit.

Future Outlook for SMEs and Workforce Mobility

While the new regulations provide short-term relief, it remains to be seen how they will impact the long-term growth and stability of the SME sector in Kuwait. Experts suggest that this change could enhance workforce mobility and contribute to a more dynamic labor market in the country, potentially benefiting both businesses and workers alike.

The health insurance fees for expatriates aged 60 and above, who lack university degrees, are expected to be eliminated following a pivotal court ruling earlier this year. In March, the Court of Appeal upheld the decision of the Court of First Instance to cancel Administrative Decision No. 27/2021, which detailed rules and procedures for issuing work permits. This development could relieve older expatriates of a significant financial burden.

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) revealed that 97,622 expatriates fall under the affected category as of mid-2024.

Breakdown by Education Levels

• University Degree Holders: 143,488
• Postgraduates (Master’s and PhDs): 6,561
• Illiterate Individuals: 82,258
• Elementary Level Holders: 175,672
• Intermediate Education Holders: 632,017
• High School Certificate Holders: 248,697
• Diploma Holders: 79,902
• Unspecified Educational Backgrounds: 795,349

Kuwait’s total expatriate population has reached 3,358,654, reflecting its diverse educational and professional landscape.

The removal of health insurance fees for this demographic aligns with the country's legal developments and labor market adjustments. It could improve access to essential services for older expatriates while addressing Kuwait’s evolving expatriate workforce requirements

The Ministry of Health (MoH) has reiterated its dedication to implementing the Gulf Committee for Drug Pricing's resolutions, in coordination with the Gulf Health Council. The ministry aims to balance providing affordable medications and supporting the local pharmaceutical sector.

In a press statement released Thursday, the MoH emphasized that the Drug Pricing Committee regularly reviews and reduces medicine prices based on comprehensive studies conducted by the Drug Pricing Department under the Drug Control Sector.

The ministry highlighted that a primary reason for reducing drug prices is the expiration of patents for innovative medicines. Such expirations lead to price drops ranging between 30% and 80%, depending on the drug and its market. Additionally, the availability of non-innovative generic drugs and therapeutic alternatives intensifies competition, further driving down costs.

By lowering prices, the ministry seeks to make medicines more accessible to both citizens and expatriates, alleviating their financial burdens. The reduction also decreases overall medical costs for patients and visitors, ensuring access to essential medications at reasonable rates.

The ministry explained that setting drug prices involves analyzing numerous factors, including:

• Clinical Trials and R&D Costs: Expenditures on research and development.
• Manufacturing and Packaging: The cost of production and packaging.
• Transportation and Storage: Logistics involved in distribution.
• Technological Integration: Use of advanced technology in production processes.

These considerations enable the ministry to develop flexible pricing models, optimize the supply chain, and evaluate market dynamics effectively.

The Environmental Affairs Committee of the Municipal Council, led by Alia Al-Farsi, conducted its second workshop titled "Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh Environmental System: Community Participation between Situation Assessment and Solutions". The workshop concluded with eight strategic recommendations to tackle the severe environmental and public health challenges in the area, with reducing population congestion being a key focus.

Key Insights from the Workshop

Alia Al-Farsi emphasized that Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh's deteriorating environmental state is a concern for the Kuwait Municipality, citizens, and sustainability advocates. The workshop highlighted the area's low cleanliness levels and environmental hazards, spurring discussions that produced actionable solutions.

The workshop saw participation from representatives of over 10 specialized entities, including:

• Kuwait University
• Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR)
• Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS)
• Environment Public Authority (EPA)
• Ministry of Interior
• Ministry of Public Works
• Farwaniya Governor Sheikh Athbi Nasser Al-Athbi Al-Sabah

Al-Farsi underscored the urgency of implementing the recommendations to improve living conditions in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh. Its strategic location near the international airport and Sabah Al-Salem University City makes addressing these issues even more critical.

Alarming Environmental and Health Conditions

Vice Chairman of the Municipal Council, Khaled Al-Mutairi, described the area’s poor environmental and health conditions as an “alarm bell” demanding immediate action. He called for swift implementation of effective solutions to prevent adverse effects on surrounding neighborhoods.

Strategic Recommendations

The workshop culminated in the following recommendations:

1. Field Inspection and Pollution Assessment

• Conduct a coordinated field visit involving all workshop participants.
• Perform comprehensive surveys to assess air and water pollution levels and identify disease prevalence.

2. Enforcement of Cleanliness Regulations

• Implement municipal and EPA regulations to raise cleanliness levels.
• Address the proliferation of stray dogs and rodents.

3. Infrastructure Repairs

• Repair dilapidated sewerage, drainage, and rainwater networks according to applicable laws.
• Lay down an emergency plan to repair roads and develop infrastructure.

4. Population Management

• Reduce population congestion and eliminate misuse of real estate.
• Implement measures to improve cleanliness and reduce environmental strain.

5. Awareness Campaigns

• Install multilingual warning signs to educate residents about environmental regulations.

6. Intensified Monitoring and Enforcement

• Strengthen monitoring efforts to ensure adherence to municipal rules.
• Remove all types of violations and encroachments.

The workshop highlighted the critical need for unified efforts to rehabilitate Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh and prevent further deterioration. Immediate action by authorities and stakeholders is essential to safeguard the area’s environment and public health.

According to Samira Al-Kandari, the Acting Director General of the EPA, the initiative aims to educate the public on the significance of preserving Kuwait’s desert ecosystems. The campaign highlights the importance of following the regulations set forth in the Environmental Protection Law, especially those concerning land and agricultural preservation.

The campaign stresses adherence to the Environmental Protection Law's provisions, especially Articles 40 to 47, which address land protection and wildlife conservation. Violators of these regulations could face fines ranging from 250 dinars to 5,000 dinars. Activities like soil pollution, hunting, and damaging wildlife habitats are prohibited.

To ensure compliance, the EPA is coordinating efforts with the Kuwait Municipality, striving to organize the camping season in an environmentally responsible manner. This collaboration ensures the smooth execution of camping regulations, safeguarding Kuwait’s natural beauty.

Al-Kandari stressed the role of social responsibility in protecting the environment. By educating desert campers and promoting adherence to environmental laws, the EPA hopes to foster a culture of environmental stewardship that extends beyond the spring camping season.

The campaign aims to prevent activities that damage Kuwait's environment, such as altering soil properties, polluting land, or hunting endangered species. Other restricted actions include encroaching on nature reserves and exploiting agricultural lands in a way that promotes desertification. Aimed at preserving biodiversity, these guidelines play a vital role in maintaining the health of Kuwait’s ecosystems.

By adhering to the guidelines of the Environmental Protection Law and promoting environmental awareness, the EPA's campaign hopes to protect Kuwait's natural landscapes. Ensuring the sustainability of the country's ecosystems during the camping season—and beyond—is crucial for future generations.