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.

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

Clothing Prices See a Sharp Rise of 5.56%

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

Housing Services and Home Furnishings Show Moderate Increases

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Automated Disconnection Program Activation

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

Payment Methods to Avoid Service Disruption

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

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

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

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

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

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

Property Rights:

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

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

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

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

Danger to the Consumer:

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

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

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

Brands:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key Features of the AI-Powered Cameras

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

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

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

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

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

Implementation of “Point to Point” Cameras

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

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

Stricter Penalties to Deter Dangerous Behaviors

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

Broader Objectives of the Initiative

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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