The State of Kuwait is accelerating efforts to strengthen its legal and regulatory framework to combat money laundering, aiming to enhance the efficiency of government agencies and elevate the national response in line with international standards, Al Jarida newspaper reported.

These legislative and oversight measures reflect Kuwait’s determination to become a regional hub in anti-money laundering efforts, bolstering its international standing and supporting a comprehensive national strategy to address financial crimes.

According to a KUNA report, Kuwait’s legislative system recently saw a significant development with the issuance of Decree-Law No. 76 of 2025, which amends provisions of Law No. 106 of 2013 on Combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing. The decree establishes a robust legal framework enabling the Council of Ministers to issue the necessary decisions to implement Kuwait’s international obligations in this area.

The law includes provisions to delist, freeze funds and other assets, and prohibit dealings with specified natural or legal persons. To enhance the effectiveness of Cabinet decisions, it stipulates that such measures take effect immediately upon issuance, avoiding any delay that could undermine their purpose or limit their impact. Violations carry criminal penalties, with fines ranging from KD 10,000 to KD 500,000 per offense.

The legislation provides a comprehensive framework for implementing Security Council resolutions while balancing international obligations with constitutional safeguards. It guarantees individuals the right to file complaints, review relevant information, and request permission to cover necessary expenses.

This step reflects the efforts of the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism, tasked by the Council of Ministers to strengthen cooperation among relevant government agencies and ensure compliance with international standards, thereby protecting Kuwait’s reputation and global standing.

The committee includes the Financial Investigation Unit, Central Bank of Kuwait, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Capital Markets Authority, Public Prosecution, Ministries of Justice, Finance, Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Social Affairs, General Administration of Customs, Public Authority for Combating Corruption (Nazaha), and the Insurance Regulatory Unit.

In July, four government agencies signed two memoranda of understanding to enhance coordination in combating money laundering. The MoU between General Administration of Customs and Ministry of Interior focuses on joint cooperation and information exchange in line with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards.

The Capital Markets Authority and Financial Intelligence Unit MoU establishes frameworks for cooperation, detailing the scope, exchange mechanism, and strict confidentiality standards for information sharing between the entities. These agreements aim to strengthen regulatory measures, improve data exchange efficiency, and support Kuwait’s national system for combating financial crimes.

The memorandum outlined key aspects of cooperation, including holding periodic meetings to strengthen joint coordination, activate preventive and deterrent controls, exchange information and expertise, prepare training and qualification programs for personnel, and facilitate mutual attendance at training courses on combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

As part of its on-site monitoring, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry prepared the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Guide for the Gold, Precious Metals, and Gemstones Traders Sector 2025.

The guide aims to help professionals in this sector understand and fulfill their obligations under AML/CFT laws by providing guidance on identifying and assessing money laundering and terrorist financing risks and implementing the necessary internal policies, procedures, and controls. It highlights payment and transaction risks, such as unconventional or large cash usage, third-party advance payment recovery, and transactions through unrelated or high-risk sectors like real estate, automotive, construction, or tourism, alongside key business risk assessment points.

The Central Bank of Kuwait adopted an updated penalty methodology under Article 15 of Law No. 106 of 2013, including the publication of penalties imposed on supervised entities. It issued a circular directing banks to follow Financial Intelligence Unit guidelines and report suspicious transactions within two days. The Unit conducts technical and strategic analyses of reports from financial institutions and relevant non-financial businesses.

Kuwait also hosted a workshop to prepare a unified Gulf strategy against money laundering, reflecting its commitment to regional and international coordination. According to the October FATF report, Kuwait possesses all essential structural elements for an effective AML/CFT regime, including political and institutional stability, rule of law, accountability, and an independent judiciary.

The report confirmed Kuwait’s enhanced capacity to prosecute, impose proportionate penalties, and deter money laundering effectively. The Council of Ministers continues to monitor the implementation of FATF requirements, reviewing progress by the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering, relevant ministries, and authorities.

  

 

 

 

The General Department of Criminal Investigation in Hawalli Governorate has dismantled an international network involved in operating online gambling platforms and illegally transferring their proceeds within Kuwait, Al Rai newspaper reported.

In a statement, the Ministry of Interior said investigations began after information was gathered on the group’s activities through social media monitoring. A specialized team was formed to pursue the case, implementing a detailed field plan that led to the arrest of seven suspects — six Egyptians and one Syrian — who were directly linked to managing the illegal operations.

Investigations revealed that the network had been using several companies as fronts to conceal its operations, including general trading firms, delivery services, health salons, and clothing and perfume outlets.

Authorities found that money laundering was carried out by transferring amounts from abroad through an individual based in Turkey. Each transfer was kept at 25,000 Kuwaiti dinars or less to avoid detection, then reintroduced into Kuwait through unofficial channels and distributed in cash to participants. The total amount seized and traced through the network reached 153,837.25 Kuwaiti dinars.

The Ministry of Interior stated that coordination was undertaken with the Financial Prosecution Office. All suspects, along with the seized funds, investigation files, and details of the companies involved, were referred to the Public Prosecution for further legal action. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to combating organized crime in all forms and stressed that the law will be applied equally to all offenders.

  

 

 

 

The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) issued its first official comment regarding reports on raising the minimum monthly wage for Filipino domestic workers from $400 to $500 (about KD 150). PAM clarified that no official decision has been issued by the relevant government bodies to date, reported Al Jarida newspaper.
The authority stressed that any changes related to wages or employment contracts are only valid if announced through official and documented channels. The authority urged accuracy in reporting and warned against relying on rumors, confirming that official sources remain the sole authority for correct information.

Following a recent circular from the Department of Labor and Employment in the Philippines increasing the minimum monthly wage for Filipino domestic workers from $400 to $500 (about 150 dinars), PAM clarified that reports in some media outlets and social media about a salary increase are false.

In another development, a team of competent regulatory authorities, including representatives from the Public Authority for Manpower, the Occupational Safety Department of the Labor Inspection Department, the Residence Affairs Investigations Department, the Kuwait Fire Force at the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Kuwait Municipality, conducted a surprise inspection campaign in the Al-Dajeej area of Farwaniya Governorate. The campaign resulted in the issuance of 23 warnings for violations related to non-compliance with occupational safety requirements.

According to the authority’s sources, upcoming periods will witness intensified surprise field campaigns targeting workers’ housing across all governorates, particularly in areas with high concentrations of expatriate workers. These campaigns aim to assess compliance with occupational safety regulations, ensure business owners and private sector companies—including those involved in government contracts—adhere to required standards, and safeguard the rights and safety of expatriate workers.

The sources stressed that the Public Authority for Manpower will enforce the law strictly against violators, imposing appropriate penalties, including suspension of commercial licenses and closure of company files for failure to comply. Inspectors, empowered with judicial police authority, are permitted to enter workers’ housing to verify compliance with established standards.

Occupational safety inspectors monitor and document violations during each inspection round and issue remedial warnings. They revisit the same sites within a short period to ensure corrections have been made. Failure to cooperate or address violations will result in formal recording of the offense and the imposition of penalties on the responsible company.

  

 

 

 

The Ministry of Interior issued new guidelines for travelers carrying money, jewelry, and other valuables, reported Al Jarida newspaper.

It stressed the need to declare cash of KD 3,000 or more, or its equivalent in foreign currency, to the Financial Investigation Department at the airport through the customs form when departing or arriving.

The ministry clarified that gold in all its forms—including bullion, jewelry, and precious watches—must also be declared when leaving the country. For gold bullion, a statistical statement is issued by the Air Cargo Department near the T4 building. For jewelry, watches, and other valuables, a sighting note is provided upon departure, while a similar note is issued upon arrival when returning. Receipts must be presented during inspection.

The ministry explained that this disclosure process is a legal requirement aimed at combating money laundering and terrorist financing. It does not restrict travel but ensures transparency and compliance with financial security regulations.

  

 

 

 

The company thanked its customers in Kuwait for their support over the years, expressing appreciation for their loyalty and trust.

Carrefour announced that it has permanently suspended its operations in Kuwait, reported Al Qabas newspaper.

In a statement, the company thanked its customers in Kuwait for their support over the years, expressing appreciation for their loyalty and trust.

  

 

 

 

Abdul Razzaq Gate, a historic landmark in the capital, has entered a new phase of maintenance and rehabilitation. This comes after the tunnel’s overhead traffic signal was opened to pedestrians last year, with internal repair work now completed, Al Jarida newspaper reported.

Authorities said the tunnel is expected to reopen to pedestrians soon, following comprehensive maintenance that included raising ceilings, removing rust, and reinforcing structural supports. Modern materials and methods suited to the gate’s location were applied to ensure durability. The work also involved asphalt laying, installation of signals, and upgrades to the surrounding infrastructure to enhance sustainability and long-term protection.

The Darwaza Tunnel is awaiting full reopening following the rehabilitation of its concrete structure, necessary crack repairs, and the renewal of its service networks. Paving, lighting, and landscaping works are also in progress to improve the area’s overall appearance.

The tunnel serves as a key traffic artery linking several vital areas. During maintenance, the Ministry of Public Works sought to preserve its heritage value as part of the old Kuwait Wall.

The tunnel was closed in 2020 after cracks and fissures appeared in its structure, requiring urgent intervention to ensure safety. However, the project faced repeated delays due to technical reports from the Government Performance Monitoring Agency and overlapping responsibilities among government bodies overseeing the work.

The Municipal Council earlier approved a KD 650,000 donation from the Commercial Bank to support restoration of the Abdul Razzaq Gateway Tunnel and the street beneath it. The bank will cover all expenses, including design, implementation, supervision, permits, and related requirements, until the project is complete.

  

 

 

Article 1 of the decision issued by Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef obliges private-sector employers to enter daily working hours, rest periods, weekly rest, and official holidays into the Public Authority for Manpower’s electronic system and update it immediately whenever changes occur.

Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, issued a decision regarding the work schedule. Article 1 of the decision requires private-sector employers to enter details of daily working hours, rest periods, weekly rest, and official holidays into the electronic system approved by the Public Authority for Manpower, and to update this information immediately whenever changes occur, reported Al Anba newspaper.

Article 2 states that the data entered into the authority’s electronic system will serve as the official reference for inspectors during inspections and follow-ups. The authority’s approval of the data constitutes official validation of the work schedule, which the employer must print and display visibly at the workplace.

Article 3 provides that, without prejudice to Article 141 of Law No. 6 of 2010, the authority may take legal action against employers violating the decision, including partial or full suspension of the employer’s file.

Article 4 specifies that the decision will be published in the Official Gazette, take effect on November 1 this year and must be noted and implemented by the competent authorities.

  

 

 

 

As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly expands worldwide across sectors, Kuwait Ministry of Health has moved to apply it in diagnosis, treatment and training of medical personnel to keep pace with advanced developments and deliver top-tier medical and health services.

The Ministry has drawn plans to integrate AI tools in hospitals to improve the speed and accuracy of diagnostics, support clinical care, enhance health research and drug development, and streamline administrative operations.

Key initiatives launched in hospitals span various specialties, particularly medical imaging, surgery and scientific research, after AI proved it contributed to reducing medical errors and easing surgical procedures in less time than conventional operations while delivering more precise outcomes. Among these efforts, Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital employs AI in surgery and endoscopy, including ICG blood-flow technology and robotic systems, across general surgery, urology, obstetrics and gynecology.

The Ministry recently chaired a GCC workshop, “Innovation and AI in Healthcare,” focusing on deploying technology and AI to develop health systems, improve service quality and strengthen Gulf cooperation. Kuwait is also keen to leverage AI applications to respond to patient inquiries, explain test results, discuss prescriptions and help direct patients to the appropriate specialty.

In parallel, Kuwait‘s healthcare is undergoing a major transformation, with AI reshaping delivery in medicine, diagnostics and treatment.

AI has moved from theory to a practical tool that changes healthcare‘s contours, from highprecision early diagnosis and faster drug discovery to personalized therapies tailored to each patient. This transformation is rooted in “augmented intelligence,” positioning AI as a partner to the physician, not a replacement, handling routine tasks and big-data analysis while doctors and researchers focus on clinical decision-making and human interaction.

Reflecting this integration are research efforts at Dasman Diabetes Institute, advances in dentistry, and contributions of nuclear medicine to improve image quality and develop targeted “theranostics,” alongside data quality and protection strategies that make care more precise and efficient.

Dr. Anwar Mohammad, a researcher at the Department of Translational Research at the Dasman Diabetes Institute, told KUNA that AI has become pivotal in advancing medical and research sciences, achieving a qualitative leap in predicting protein structures and DNA/RNA interactions thanks to tools such as AlphaFold, opening avenues to accelerate drug discovery by precisely identifying therapeutic targets and understanding disease mechanisms at the molecular level.

He added that AI shortened time and effort in drug discovery and genomics by analyzing vast biological datasets more accurately than traditional methods and mapping gene interactions critical to understanding chronic diseases such as diabetes.

He said challenges include the need for high-quality, diverse data, the difficulty of interpreting complex models and linking them to clinical practice, and ethical considerations including patient-data privacy, algorithmic bias, and slow regulatory frameworks. He emphasized that the future lies in integrating AI with human expertise to reinforce critical thinking and humane patient communication.

Other key challenges include implementation costs and specialized training needs, that call for a revamp of academic curricula to prepare AI-enabled physicians of the future.

  

 

 

 

Khalifa Al-Ajeel, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, issued a decision regulating freelance activities, covering 120 diverse fields, including consulting, regulatory and investment services, property management, and other business activities, Al Rai newspaper reported.

Minister Al-Ajeel set nine conditions for obtaining a license to practice self-employment activities. The first condition requires that the company applying for the license be a one-person entity, with the founder and manager being a natural Kuwaiti citizen of full legal capacity. The individual must have no final convictions involving penalties restricting freedom for felonies or crimes affecting honor and trust, unless their reputation has been legally restored.

The conditions for obtaining a freelance license include that the license holder be at least 21 years old, unless authorized to practice commerce by a court. The holder must specify a chosen address, post office box, or an email registered with the Public Authority for Civil Information, according to the latest update. If the address is a private residence, approval from the property owner is required.

Applicants must also provide evidence of payment of the prescribed fee, sign the necessary pledge using the designated form, and refrain from dealing with materials harmful to the environment or public health and safety, as specified by competent authorities or any other documents required by a decision issued by the Minister or his delegate.

Promoting transparency

The decision sets a four-year license term, while Article 5 allows the addition of multiple freelance business activities to the same license, provided the added activities are similar, complementary, necessary, or related to the granted license. Articles 7 and 8 require licensees to disclose their commercial registration number in all official accounts and transactions, and all payments must be made electronically.

Capital reduction

Article 10 reduces the capital required for companies practicing licensed freelance activities to half the amount required for similar activities, as outlined in the decision. In matters not explicitly covered, the provisions of Ministerial Resolution No. 411 of 2013 apply.

The decision also mandates that the Ministry of Commerce submit periodic reports to the Public Authority for Manpower on the compliance of beneficiaries of Cabinet Resolution No. 391 of 2001 and its amendments regarding the social allowance.

License holders benefiting from the allowance must annually provide the ministry with the company’s bank statement, annual financial statements, accounts of licensed electronic and social media platforms, and any other documents specified by the minister. The first fiscal year begins on the company’s registration date and ends on the specified end date of the following fiscal year.

  

 

 

 

In a ruling highlighting the impact of the new residency law, the Court of First Instance fined a company owner KD 5,000 for failing to pay a worker’s dues. The decision cites Article 19 of the law, which prohibits employers from using foreign workers for purposes other than those for which they were recruited, allowing them to work for third parties without a license, or withholding their dues, reported Al Jarida newspaper.

The Public Prosecution charged the employer on 15 July 2024 at the Criminal Investigation Department in Kuwait for unlawfully refusing to pay the worker during his employment. Investigations confirmed the accused’s role as employer and manager, and the prosecution requested penalties under Articles 1/19, 7/27, and 29 of Law No. 114 of 2024 concerning the Foreigners’ Residence Law.

The Court of First Instance, under the chairmanship of Counselor Mishari Al-Buaijan, issued a ruling stated that “the incident, as established by the court’s conviction and reassured conscience, is evident from the review of all case papers and conducted investigations. The victim had joined a limited liability company managed by the accused, who served as the company’s manager and was responsible for its administration, as confirmed by the commercial register issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The accused refused to pay the victim’s dues for the relevant period, despite the issuance of Appeal No. 2024/115 Labor/5 on July 15, 2024, amounting to KD 5,336.309, without justification. This delay prevented the victim from filing his complaint with the Public Prosecution on December 2, 2025.”

The court clarified that the date of the offense was amended to span from December 1, 2024 to December 2, 2025, instead of July 15, 2024, since Decree-Law No. 114 of 2024 concerning the Foreigners’ Residence Law was not published in the Official Gazette and came into effect on December 1, 2024. The court noted that this amendment does not violate the defendant’s right to defense.

“The Court of Cassation has established that in criminal trials, the court’s conviction and confidence in the presented evidence are paramount. Evidence need not individually prove every detail, as criminal evidence is interdependent and complementary. The court may rely on any element or indication it finds sufficient, assessing witness statements and circumstances at its discretion, regardless of challenges or doubts raised.”

Regarding the civil suit, Article 22 of Decree-Law No. 78 of 2025, amending provisions of Law No. 17 of 1973 on court fees, stipulates that courts adjudicate cases only after fees are paid or a temporary exemption is granted. If fees are unpaid, the court grants the plaintiff a period to pay; failure to do so renders the suit null and void. Since the plaintiff did not pay within the allotted period, the court ruled the civil suit as if it had never been filed.

The court ruled in absentia: first, fining the accused KD 5,000 for the criminal charge; and second, declaring the civil suit invalid and void.

  

 

 

 

Article One: Two new articles, numbered (17 bis) and (81 bis), shall be added to Law No. 21 of 2015 as follows:
Article (17 bis): Every Kuwaiti father or legal guardian must apply to register the newborn under the father’s nationality file, attaching the necessary documents, within 60 days of birth.

Article (81 bis): Anyone who violates Article (17 bis) shall be subject to a fine of not less than KD 2,000 and not more than KD 3,000. A settlement may be accepted after the expiry of the period referred to in Article (17 bis) by paying KD 100 plus five dinars for each day of delay, provided the total does not exceed KD 2,000.
The settlement is paid to the competent authority at the Ministry of Interior, and once settled, the criminal case and all its effects shall be terminated.

The explanatory memorandum for the draft law amending certain provisions of Law No. 21 of 2015 regarding the rights of the child stated the following: The State has guaranteed the rights of the child under Law No. 21 of 2015 by providing all necessary legal and social protections.

Out of the State’s commitment to safeguarding these rights—particularly the preservation of national identity—and in light of the negligence of some guardians in obtaining official documents for the child, specifically the failure to add the child to the father’s nationality file, it became necessary to introduce legislation obligating the legal guardian to register the newborn in the nationality file, as set forth in Article (17 bis). Article (81 bis) further establishes a punitive penalty for anyone who violates this obligation.

  

 

 

 

Dr. Adarsh Swaika, currently India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to Kenya and is expected to assume the role shortly, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, India on Wednesday.

This appointment comes as part of India’s strengthening diplomatic presence on the African continent, particularly in East Africa, where Kenya represents a strategic partner for India at the political, economic, and commercial levels.

Dr. Swaika currently serves as India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, where he worked to strengthen bilateral relations in various fields, most notably economic and trade cooperation, education, healthcare, and the welfare of the Indian community, which constitutes one of the largest expatriate communities in Kuwait.

Ambassador Dr Adarsh Soika brings over two decades of diplomatic experience, having served in several Indian missions abroad, including in France, the United States, and Bangladesh, and has also held senior positions in the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi. He is known for his focus on investment, economic reforms, and international cooperation in the fields of energy and innovation.

His move to Nairobi is expected to strengthen India’s relations with Kenya, particularly in light of the growing interest on both sides in expanding cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, agriculture, technological innovation, and maritime security.

  

 

 

 

First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah on Monday chaired the second meeting of a government team tasked with regulating places of worship and religious centers.

According to a press release by the ministry, the meeting followed guidance of Kuwait’s wise leadership directives aimed at aligning religious activities with legal frameworks, consolidating values, and reinforcing Kuwaitآ‘s regional and international standing.

Officials reviewed outcomes from the first meeting and discussed mechanisms for licensing religious institutions, ensuring they serve society while complying with regulations.

The session was attended by Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Mohammed Al-Wasmi, Minister of State for Municipal and Housing Affairs Abdullatif Al-Meshari, Justice Minister Nasser Al-Sumait, Fatwa and Legislation Department Head Salah Al-Majed, and representatives from several government agencies.

  

 

 

 

In every national transformation journey, bricks and mortar alone do not build the future. People do. Kuwait Vision 2035, ‘New Kuwait’, calls for a thriving and sustainable society where human capital is at the center. Infrastructure and policy reforms matter, but they are not enough. What will ultimately shape success are our behaviors, our choices, and our values.

Wellbeing is more than physical health or stress management. It is a national asset. A society that prioritizes balance and resilience is more productive. It spends less on healthcare and builds stronger foundations for innovation. Nations that embed wellbeing into culture, position themselves as competitive and future-ready.

Kuwait’s youth make up more than half of the population. They are not just participants in the national vision. They are its leaders. Youth brings creativity, ambition, and energy. At the same time, they carry forward the values that define Kuwait: solidarity, respect, balance, and perseverance.

Empowering youth to promote wellbeing is a values-driven investment in the future. Young Kuwaitis can lead community campaigns. They can create digital health platforms. They can design school and university initiatives. In doing so, they weave wellbeing into daily life. When anchored in values, these behaviors ripple across generations.

Behavioral science shows the power of small, consistent actions. Walking instead of driving. Managing screen time. Practicing mindfulness. These simple habits, when adopted widely, transform culture.

Policies can reinforce these choices. More public parks encourage active lifestyles. Nutritious food in schools builds healthy routines. Workplace wellness programs and mental health awareness campaigns make wellbeing a shared responsibility. Together, these steps strengthen both individuals and the nation.

A wellbeing culture strengthens the pillars of Vision 2035.

• Creative Human Capital:Youth who are healthy and guided by values are more creative, adaptable, and ready to lead.
  
  • Sustainable Living Environment:Eco-friendly behaviors, such as reducing waste and conserving water, improve both wellbeing and environmental health.
• Effective Government:By integrating wellbeing into policies, institutions model care, accountability, and values-based leadership.

Government programs are essential. For transformation and long-term change, cultural adoption is required. Kuwait once shifted from pearl diving to the oil economy. Today, we can achieve another shift: from reactive healthcare to proactive wellbeing.

Here, values play a central role. Leaders can emphasize balance and care. Educators can encourage healthier habits. Media and influencers can make wellbeing aspirational and accessible. The message is clear. Wellbeing is not a luxury. The wellbeing of our society is a shared responsibility and a national duty.

Vision 2035 is more than a blueprint. It is a call to redefine how we live, work, and connect. With youth and values at the heart of wellbeing, we can shift the discourse around sustainable human development. New Kuwait can use its human development pillar as an example of sustainable society transformation.

The decade ahead calls for intentional steps toward better health, mental fortitude, and communities that thrive together. Vision 2035 charts our course. The collective work of moving forward rests with us, rooted in what we value most and propelled by the vision of our young people.

Editor’s Note: Sarah Al Sabah is Head of Development Planning Follow-Up at Kuwait’s Ministry of Information and a core member of its Strategy Committee (2026–2030). She leads initiatives on future-ready media, youth empowerment, and sustainable transformation in alignment with Vision 2035. In this op‑ed, she explores how wellbeing, values, and youth‑led behavioral change are essential to realizing the New Kuwait.

  

 

 

 

Kuwaiti runner and coach Haya Al-Fares shared her inspiring athletic journey, which has made her a symbol of perseverance and determination. Alongside her career as an engineer, she pursued her passion for running and went on to achieve two Guinness World Records, reported Al Qabas newspaper.

In 2024, Al-Fares set her first record by running a half marathon (21 kilometer) every day for sixty consecutive days. A year later, in 2025, she secured another record for completing the fastest half marathon while carrying weight on her back. She described these milestones as the realization of a lifelong dream, saying she felt both proud and overjoyed when her efforts paid off.

Haya said, “My ambition is to be the Kuwaiti who breaks the most Guinness World Records. I like to set a goal to achieve, and once I reach it, I set a new one. This way, I see life as more beautiful and exciting.”

She added, “My start in sports happened by chance, when I participated in a running event organized by ministries in Kuwait. I won first place, and it was a good beginning. Since then, running has become an integral part of my life.” She later moved on to international races, saying, “I dreamed of something global, and achieving Guinness World Records was the culmination of that ambition.”

Haya emphasized that sports should be an essential part of everyone’s life and should be practiced daily for at least half an hour, or at the very least twice a week.

When asked about the secret to balancing her work and passion for sports, Haya replied, “Time management is everything. Good organization has helped me achieve my accomplishments without affecting my professional responsibilities.”

  

 

 

 

ven minor discrepancies between your passport and application can result in immediate rejection.

Personal details must match exactly with your passport information, including your full name, date of birth, nationality, and passport number.

NOTE: A single typo in your name or an incorrect digit in your passport number can invalidate your entire application.

Before submitting, verify every field twice and ensure all dates follow the correct format.

Remember that some countries use different date formats, so pay special attention to day-month-year versus month-day-year arrangements.

Mistake 2: Uploading Poor Quality Photos

Your passport photo and document uploads significantly impact your application's success rate.

Blurry, dark, or poorly cropped images often lead to automatic rejections.

The photo requirements for Qatar e-visa are strict and must meet passport standards. Your facial photo should have a plain background, good lighting, and show your face clearly without shadows or reflections.

NOTE: Photos taken with smartphones in poor lighting or at awkward angles are commonly rejected.

For document uploads, ensure your passport's bio-data page is completely visible, with all text readable and corners included in the frame. Scan or photograph documents on a flat surface with adequate lighting to avoid shadows or glare.

Mistake 3: Not Meeting Eligibility Criteria

Many applicants assume they automatically qualify for a Qatar visa without checking the specific eligibility requirements for their nationality.

Citizens from certain countries need additional documentation beyond the standard requirements.

Countries marked with an asterisk on the official list must provide either a valid tourist or business visa from the US, UK, or Schengen Area that has been used at least once, OR a valid permanent residence visa from these regions, OR a valid GCC residence visa effective for at least three months.

NOTE: Nationals from Palestine and Israel cannot apply for Qatar e-visas under current regulations.

GCC citizens (from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and UAE) don't need a visa at all – just a valid national ID card.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Visa Validity Periods

Understanding your visa's validity period is crucial for trip planning and avoiding overstaying penalties.

Most Qatar e-visas remain valid for 30 days from your arrival date, regardless of whether you choose the Tourist, GCC Resident, or ETA Authorization type. However, the Transit e-visa is only effective for 4 days (96 hours).

NOTE: This validity period starts from when you enter Qatar, not when your visa is approved. Overstaying your visa can result in hefty fines, deportation, and potential bans from future Qatar visits.

Plan your trip duration carefully and consider applying for an extension if needed before your original visa expires.

Mistake 5: Submitting Applications Too Late

Poor timing can create unnecessary stress and potentially ruin travel plans, especially during peak seasons or when dealing with processing delays.

While Qatar e-visa processing typically takes 1-3 business days, smart travelers apply well in advance. Submit your application at least one week before your intended travel date to account for potential delays or the need to resubmit corrected information.

NOTE: Processing times may extend during busy periods like major events in Qatar or holiday seasons.

Last-minute applications leave no room for error correction if issues arise, potentially forcing you to cancel or postpone your trip.

Planning Your Perfect Qatar Visit

Avoiding these common mistakes ensures your Qatar e-visa application process remains as smooth and efficient as intended.

The electronic system truly simplifies travel to Qatar when used correctly, opening doors to experience this fascinating country's rich culture, modern attractions, and warm hospitality.

Take time to review all requirements carefully, prepare high-quality documents, and submit your application with plenty of buffer time.

With proper preparation, you'll soon be exploring Qatar's impressive skyline, traditional souqs, and world-class attractions with complete peace of mind.

  

 

 

The total lunar eclipse will be clearly visible across Kuwait, where the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has called on imams and preachers to perform the eclipse prayer at 8 p.m. today.

A total lunar eclipse will be visible to the naked eye on Sunday evening across Kuwait, other Arab countries, much of Asia, Australia, and central and eastern parts of Europe and Africa, Al Qabas newspaper reported.

The celestial event will last about five hours and 27 minutes in total, with the full eclipse phase continuing for one hour and 22 minutes.

In Kuwait, the phenomenon will begin as the moon enters the penumbra at 6:28 p.m., reaching its peak at 9:11 p.m., before concluding at 11:55 p.m.

The moon turns red as it passes into Earth’s shadow, which blocks direct sunlight and causes it to gradually lose its white glow.
“The only sunlight that reaches it is reflected and scattered by Earth’s atmosphere,” explained Ryan Milligan, an astrophysicist at the University of Belfast.

The spectacle will be clearly visible across Kuwait, where the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has called on imams and preachers to perform the eclipse prayer at 8 p.m. today.

A total lunar eclipse also provides scientists with a valuable opportunity to study Earth’s atmosphere. The color and brightness of the moon during the eclipse allow researchers to gather precise data on stratospheric components such as aerosols, gases, and volcanic ash.

Studies have shown that the lunar surface cools rapidly during a total eclipse, dropping by more than 100 degrees Celsius in less than an hour. This helps scientists examine the surface’s thermal properties and gain a deeper understanding of the composition of soil and rocks.

  

 

 

 

The Kuwaiti Cabinet announced that the “Sahel” application has become the country’s most widely used government digital platform, with over 9.2 million users completing more than 110 million transactions across services provided by more than 40 government entities.

The announcement came during the weekly Cabinet meeting chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah at Bayan Palace, reports Al-Rai daily.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Cabinet Affairs Shereeda Abdullah Al-Mousherji said the ministers reviewed a visual presentation by Minister of State for Communication Affairs Omar Al-Omar and the Sahel executive committee on the app’s achievements and future plans to expand integrated e-services.

The Cabinet also discussed several other key matters, including the withdrawal of licenses for 50 industrial, service, and craft plots in Shuwaikh Industrial Area over serious violations, with Minister of Commerce and Industry Khalifa Al-Ojail confirming continued legal action against violators.

In addition, the ministers approved bills related to a unified GCC land transport system and cooperation projects with friendly countries in financial and economic fields. They also reviewed the Capital Markets Authority’s 14th annual report and the fifth annual report of the Insurance Regulatory Unit.

The Cabinet further approved private sector donations, including contributions from oil companies, to support agricultural development along Kuwait’s highways.