In a significant move to modernize and streamline employee attendance tracking, the Director General of Kuwait Municipality, Eng. Saud Al-Dubous, has mandated the implementation of a new mobile application. This app will allow municipal employees to record their fingerprints via their smartphones, effectively verifying their presence during official working hours.

 Through an administrative circular recently issued by Al-Dubous, the Finance and Administration Sector has been instructed to incorporate this mobile fingerprint verification system. This innovation is expected to enhance efficiency and accuracy in tracking employee attendance, ensuring that municipal employees comply with their designated working hours.

 This initiative reflects Kuwait Municipality's commitment to embracing digital solutions that improve operational efficiency. By enabling fingerprint verification through mobile phones, the municipality is taking a proactive step toward reducing administrative overhead and enhancing workforce management.

In a bid to enhance road safety and curb reckless driving, Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has launched a new patrol system equipped with cutting-edge radar technology. This initiative aims to catch violators and enforce traffic laws more effectively, marking a significant step towards safer public roads in the country.

The new radar-equipped patrols represent a significant upgrade in Kuwait’s traffic enforcement capabilities. According to a report by Al-Jarida Arabic newspaper, the Operations Department recently conducted a field test of these advanced patrols across various ring roads and expressways. The results were impressive, with numerous traffic violations detected and offenders swiftly apprehended.

During the trial, traffic police successfully impounded 85 vehicles for speeding and seized 4 vehicles involved in illegal street racing. Additionally, two motorcycles were confiscated for driving without license plates and helmets. These violations were caught quickly and unexpectedly, thanks to the advanced radar system, which caught offenders off guard.

The deployment of this new radar system is expected to have a significant impact on road safety in Kuwait. By making it harder for drivers to evade detection, the Ministry of Interior is sending a strong message that reckless driving will not be tolerated. This is likely to lead to a decrease in traffic violations and a safer driving environment for all road users.

The Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) has announced new regulations aimed at enhancing the investment climate for foreign investors in Kuwait. The updated guidelines provide a clear framework for foreign investment entities to access various benefits and exemptions, including tax incentives and customs duty relief, under Kuwait's Law No. 116 of 2013.

According to Article One of the new decision, foreign investors can apply for an investment license and access benefits as outlined in Law No. 116 of 2013. To qualify, investors must meet specific criteria established by KDIPA’s evaluation mechanism, which governs the approval process for license applications and associated benefits.

Article Two specifies that investment entities operating in Kuwait for a minimum of one year under Law No. 116 of 2013 can request additional benefits and exemptions. To qualify, these entities must adhere to KDIPA’s evaluation mechanism, submit periodic reports demonstrating their commitment to approved work plans, and provide a comprehensive business plan detailing their achievements and future objectives. The exemptions will be effective from the application submission date, provided all necessary documentation and fees are completed. However, it’s important to note that the exemption does not apply retroactively to taxes or customs duties already paid.

Article Three introduces special provisions for investment entities seeking benefits and exemptions, either concurrently with or after obtaining their investment license. It clarifies that exemptions do not extend to ongoing contracts or projects with bids submitted before the application date, even if these contracts are later transferred to another entity. Additionally, entities must maintain separate financial accounts for their licensed investments, distinct from other contracts.

Article Four outlines that investment companies involved in Kuwait’s offset program are not eligible for benefits and exemptions under Law No. 116 of 2013 during the commitment period. This exclusion ensures that the offset obligations are fulfilled without benefiting from the investment incentives.

Kuwait offers numerous advantages to foreign investors through KDIPA’s law, including the ability to establish a wholly-owned Kuwaiti company, tax incentives for up to ten years, exemptions from customs duties, and land allocation for projects. Additional benefits include protection against seizure or confiscation without adequate compensation, the freedom to transfer capital and profits, and the avoidance of double taxation under bilateral agreements. Licensed investment entities may also gain classification by the Central Agency for Public Tenders based on their global experience and are permitted to employ necessary foreign labor in line with national labor requirements.

These new regulations by KDIPA are designed to attract more foreign investment to Kuwait by providing clear, structured guidelines for obtaining and maximizing available benefits. By outlining the requirements and ensuring transparency in the process, Kuwait aims to solidify its position as an attractive destination for international investors.

Kuwait is considering a significant shift in its fuel pricing policy that could lead to higher gasoline prices for expatriates and businesses. The proposed changes may exclude Kuwaiti citizens with driving licenses, focusing on reforming subsidies to better target those in need. The government's study of these potential reforms aims to ensure a more equitable distribution of fuel subsidies.

The possible liberalization of gasoline prices is part of a broader effort to adjust Kuwait’s fuel subsidy system. These changes could see expatriates and companies paying more for fuel, aligning with global pricing trends. Meanwhile, Kuwaiti citizens with valid driving licenses may be shielded from these increases, maintaining the current subsidy levels.

Should the reforms take place, expatriates and companies could face higher operational costs due to increased fuel prices. This adjustment would align Kuwait with other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries that have already moved towards market-based fuel pricing, reducing the financial burden on government subsidies.

The Kuwaiti government is exploring various models to ensure that fuel subsidies are more effectively targeted. By potentially excluding Kuwaiti citizens from price hikes, the government aims to protect the local population while encouraging more efficient energy use among expatriates and businesses.

As Kuwait moves forward with its study of fuel subsidy reforms, the outcomes could have far-reaching implications for both the local and expatriate communities. The government’s focus on better targeting subsidies reflects a commitment to economic sustainability and fairness in resource distribution.

In a significant move to enhance community services, the Ministry of Interior, through a joint effort by the General Department of Criminal Evidence and the General Department of Information Systems, will launch a new service on Sunday, August 18, 2024. This service aims to facilitate biometric fingerprinting for bedridden individuals and those with moderate to severe disabilities, including mental disabilities, directly at their locations.

This initiative reflects the Ministry of Interior’s ongoing commitment to improving access to essential government services for people with special needs and bedridden individuals. By providing this service directly at their locations, the Ministry aims to ensure that these individuals can complete necessary procedures without facing undue hardship.

To streamline the process, the Ministry has provided a dedicated WhatsApp number (94458124) for submitting all required health-related documents. Once the documents are received, individuals will be contacted to schedule an appointment for the biometric fingerprinting procedure.

In addition to this new service, the Ministry of Interior has announced an extension of the fingerprinting deadline for all citizens until September 30, 2024, and for residents until December 31, 2024. After these deadlines, transactions for any citizen or resident who has not completed the biometric fingerprinting will be halted.

The Ministry of Interior’s introduction of this biometric fingerprinting service is a crucial step towards ensuring that all members of the community, especially those with special needs and bedridden individuals, have easy access to essential services. The extension of the fingerprinting deadlines further demonstrates the Ministry's dedication to accommodating the needs of all citizens and residents.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has announced its active monitoring of the recent monkeypox outbreak in several African countries. This follows the designation of the outbreak as a "global health emergency" and the identification of a new strain of the virus.

The MOH is collaborating with the Gulf Center for Disease Prevention and the World Health Organization (WHO) to stay abreast of the situation and implement appropriate measures. The Kuwait Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Kuwait CDC) is working diligently with all relevant parties to enhance national efforts to prevent and manage infectious diseases, as reported by Al Qabas.

Monkeypox, or Empox, is a viral disease with two primary subtypes. It is characterized by a rash, blisters, and mucosal lesions, along with symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes.

The disease can spread through physical contact with an infected person, including sexual contact, kissing, or direct touch. Respiratory secretions can also transmit the virus. Diagnosis is confirmed through a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Treatment generally involves supportive care to alleviate symptoms, though antivirals may be used in certain cases.

To prevent monkeypox, the Ministry advises maintaining good hand hygiene, using soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers, avoiding sexual promiscuity, and steering clear of physical contact with symptomatic individuals. Travelers to countries with reported cases are also encouraged to exercise caution.

The Ministry of Health will continue to provide regular updates on the situation. It wishes the public good health and safety.

The Public Authority for Manpower in Kuwait has proudly announced the Expatriate Workers Shelter Center as the first facility of its kind in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the Middle East. This center is dedicated to providing comprehensive services and accommodations for expatriate workers, setting a new standard for worker support in the region.

Aseel Al-Mazid, Director of the Public Relations Department and official spokesperson for the Authority, highlighted the significance of the shelter during the recent visit by the Permanent Coordination Committee. This committee, which facilitates collaboration between the Authority and civil society institutions, joined forces with a delegation from the Patients’ Aid Fund Association to tour the Expatriate Workers Shelter Center.

The delegation was given an extensive tour of the center’s facilities, where they observed the various operations and services provided to the workers. The visit served to familiarize the guests with the procedures for receiving workers and the crucial role played by public benefit associations and government agencies in the center.

Special attention was given to the services available for female workers residing at the center. These include health services, psychological support, and legal assistance, ensuring that the workers are well cared for in every aspect of their stay. Al-Mazid emphasized that all inquiries from the association’s delegation were thoroughly addressed during the visit.

Al-Mazid also shared insights into the special procedures implemented at the shelter concerning the care and rehabilitation of female inmates. The center is committed to offering social protection, psychological services, decent accommodation, and robust legal protection for all workers under its care.

The Expatriate Workers Shelter Center stands as a pioneering initiative in Kuwait and the broader GCC region, offering unprecedented support and services to expatriate workers. As Kuwait continues to lead the way in worker protection, this shelter symbolizes a significant advancement in ensuring the welfare and rights of expatriate workers across the Middle East.

In a bid to tackle money laundering concerns, Kuwait is considering new regulations that would ban cash transactions exceeding 1500 KD in specific sectors, including car sales. This initiative aims to enhance financial transparency and curb illicit financial activities.

According to a report by Al-Rai Arabic newspaper, ongoing discussions are taking place between the Ministry of Commerce and the Central Bank of Kuwait. The proposed regulation seeks to mandate that car dealerships and companies process payments over 1,500 KD through electronic payment methods, specifically K-net.

The introduction of this ban is seen as a significant step toward tightening control over money laundering operations. By restricting cash transactions, government agencies will be better equipped to monitor fund movements and verify their origins. This measure will also facilitate cooperation with the Financial Investigation Unit in line with legal regulations.

The Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, along with the Minister of State for Youth Affairs, has introduced a new regulation affecting caregivers of disabled citizens. This directive aims to ensure continuous support for disabled individuals by restricting the international travel of their caregivers.

Details of the New Regulation

1. Travel Restrictions for Caregivers

Under the new circular, caregivers, including servants and drivers assigned to disabled individuals, are now restricted from leaving the country for more than 45 days. This rule applies unless the caregiver is accompanying the disabled person.

2. Compliance Requirements

To adhere to this new regulation, caregivers must:

- Submit a declaration affirming their commitment to the travel restrictions.

- Provide an annual certificate from the Ports Administration.

- Submit copies of their passport and residence permit.

- Regularly submit periodic reports to confirm compliance.

3. Purpose of the Directive

The regulation is designed to ensure that disabled individuals receive uninterrupted care and support. By limiting the travel duration of their caregivers, the government aims to maintain consistent and reliable assistance for those in need.

4. Implementation and Enforcement

The new rules require caregivers to carefully manage their travel plans and maintain proper documentation. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in administrative or legal repercussions.

The new travel restrictions for caregivers of disabled citizens underscore the government's commitment to ensuring continuous care for vulnerable populations. Caregivers must be aware of and adhere to these new regulations to avoid any issues.

The Ministry of Interior has issued a strict warning: All citizens and expatriates must complete their biometric fingerprint registration by the upcoming deadlines or face suspension of essential government services. The clock is ticking, and failing to act could leave you unable to renew your residency, vehicle registrations, or driver’s licenses.

Deadlines for Registration:

• Citizens: September 30
• Expatriates: December 31

Biometric registration centers are conveniently located across all governorates and major complexes, but time is running out. Avoid the last-minute rush and potential penalties by booking your appointment today through the Ministry of Interior’s website or the Sahel app.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has recently implemented new rules for luggage handling services at Kuwait Airport. According to the updated regulations, passengers can now use trolleys free of charge without the need for a porter. However, if porter assistance is required, a fee of KD 1 will be charged for a small trolley and KD 2 for a large trolley.

The DGCA's decision responds to passenger complaints about workers requesting additional fees and handling luggage unprofessionally. The revised system introduces a dedicated employee and a counter specifically for trolley and luggage handling services. Additionally, a contact number for complaints and inquiries has been established to enhance service efficiency and address issues more effectively.

In a related development, it has been reported that several DGCA employees are preparing to submit grievance letters concerning a recent administrative decision. This decision, which took effect from September 1, ends the shift system for certain employees, leading to the suspension of their financial allowances, which could be as high as KD 300 for some job grades.

The decision to withdraw shift allowances was made at the request of regulatory authorities, including the State Audit Bureau. The rationale behind this move is that the work of some employees is primarily administrative and does not align with the technical nature of shift work. As a result, these allowances are deemed inapplicable, prompting concerns among affected employees about the fairness and financial impact of this change.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Kuwait is set to meet with the Kuwait Banking Association to discuss the implications of new regulations affecting expatriate business ownership. This review focuses on a recent decision that restricts residents holding residency under Article 18 from becoming partners or managing partners in companies or institutions unless they qualify under Article 19.

The Ministry's review encompasses various residency articles, including Articles 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, and 24, aiming to ensure that company partners comply with current regulations. The new rules could impact around 10,000 expatriate workers who currently hold partnership roles under Article 18, affecting approximately 45,000 licenses.

The Ministry seeks input from banks to evaluate how these restrictions might affect credit and loans for businesses with foreign partners. Banks are expected to provide insights into potential risks and impacts on their lending systems.

The new regulations require expatriates under Article 18, who are currently business partners, to either adjust their residency status to Article 19 or divest their shares. This move aligns with the Foreigners’ Residence Law, which governs partnership and investment status.

While the decision aims to address regulatory compliance and ensure workers are genuinely employed by their sponsors, many economists worry that these changes could disrupt the corporate market and negatively impact economic activity in Kuwait.

A recent report by Al-Shall Center reveals a positive trend in Kuwait’s real estate sector, with the vacancy rate for buildings decreasing to 8.4% by the end of June 2024. This marks a decline from 8.8% in June 2023, reflecting a slight improvement in occupancy and a growing demand for residential and commercial spaces.

As of June 2024, the total number of buildings in Kuwait reached approximately 219,600, up from 216,300 the previous year. This represents a 1.5% growth rate, slightly lower than the 1.6% growth recorded in the previous year. Additionally, the number of building units increased to about 786,800, compared to 778,200 units a year earlier, marking a 1.2% increase. The compound annual growth rates from June 2015 to June 2024 show a 1.9% growth for units and a 1.2% growth for buildings, indicating a trend toward smaller unit sizes within buildings and shifting demand patterns.

Residential buildings dominate Kuwait’s real estate landscape, accounting for approximately 66.6% of the total. These are followed by mixed-use and commercial buildings. The report indicates a decrease in the percentage of vacant buildings, which now stands at 8.4%, translating to about 18,400 vacant buildings out of 219,600. This reduction from the previous year’s 8.8% suggests a modest improvement in occupancy rates.

Among the building units, apartments make up the largest share at 45.3%, followed by houses at 21.8% and shops at 20.1%. The growth rates for these types of units from June 2015 to June 2024 were 3.4% for shops, 1.7% for apartments, and 1.4% for houses. Conversely, the growth rate for annexes has declined by about -0.9%. The percentage of vacant units also decreased to approximately 20.1% in June 2024, down from 21.5% a year earlier.

The latest report highlights a positive shift in Kuwait’s real estate sector, with a decrease in vacancy rates and continued growth in the number of buildings and units. While the overall growth rates are modest, the decrease in vacancies reflects a gradual improvement in market conditions. The trend toward smaller unit sizes and the increase in building numbers suggest evolving demand patterns within Kuwait's real estate market.

Kuwait's home delivery industry is under significant threat, with many firms warning of potential bankruptcy due to recent regulatory changes and miscommunication from government agencies. The Delivery Company Owners Committee has voiced serious concerns about the negative impact of new rules and the inconsistency of some decisions affecting their businesses.

Abdulaziz Abdullatif Bandar, Chairman of the Delivery Company Owners Committee, highlighted that recent decisions and circulars are causing severe disruptions. Many of these regulations are reportedly baseless and subject to rapid changes, which have led to increased debts and operational challenges for delivery firms. Bandar pointed out that the implementation of Article Seven of Ministerial Resolution No. 271/2020 has been problematic, particularly regarding the cancellation of licenses for companies that are non-compliant or inactive.

Financial Strain: Delivery companies face mounting debts due to unstable policies and the high costs of compliance. Many commercial licenses remain unused due to regulatory inefficiencies.

Potential Black Market: Bandar warned that the ongoing situation could foster a black market for delivery licenses, exacerbating the problem.

Increased Costs: New regulations on vehicle types and conditions for licenses could drive up operational costs, ultimately impacting delivery service prices and contributing to traffic congestion.

Bandar has urged decision-makers to engage with delivery industry stakeholders before implementing new laws or circulars. He emphasized the importance of consulting with industry experts to avoid negative consequences for the delivery sector and the wider labor market. He also called on the Interior Minister to address the concerns of Kuwaiti SMEs, advocating for the removal of obstacles and the implementation of laws without unnecessary intermediaries.

The increased costs and regulatory burdens have not only affected delivery companies but also have implications for consumers. Higher delivery charges are anticipated, which could affect both Kuwaiti citizens and expatriates. Bandar stressed that the current approach could lead to a rise in illegal labor and black market activities, further destabilizing the industry.

The current regulatory landscape poses significant challenges for Kuwait’s home delivery sector. As the industry grapples with financial pressures and policy inconsistencies, it is crucial for government agencies to reassess their approach and engage with stakeholders to ensure sustainable and fair regulations.

In response to a recent surge in monkeypox infections and the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration of a state of emergency, Kuwaiti health officials have addressed concerns regarding the virus’s impact on the country. Dr. Ghanem Al-Hujailan, a consultant in internal and epidemiological diseases at Adan Hospital, has reassured the public that Kuwait remains distant from the outbreak’s hotspots and that the disease does not currently pose a significant threat to the country.

Dr. Al-Hujailan explained that Kuwait’s position as a non-transit hub and its limited tourism from affected African regions reduce the likelihood of the disease spreading through travelers. Monkeypox, a viral disease of animal origin, can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or skin lesions of infected animals. It can also spread from person to person through close contact with respiratory secretions or skin lesions.

There are two main types of monkeypox virus: the Congo Basin virus, which is more contagious, and the West African virus. The disease has been associated with various animals in Africa, including squirrels, marsupial rats, dormice, and monkeys. Consuming undercooked meat from these infected animals is a notable risk factor.

Dr. Abeer Al-Baho, Director of the Health Promotion Department, highlighted that the vaccines used in the smallpox eradication program provide up to 85 percent protection against monkeypox. She emphasized the importance of these vaccines in preventing the disease.

Monkeypox symptoms often resemble those of other infectious diseases and include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The incubation period ranges from five to 21 days, with initial symptoms appearing as fever, headache, back and muscle pain, and extreme weakness. Enlarged lymph nodes are a distinctive feature of monkeypox.

Studies indicate that monkeypox predominantly affects young people, with a significant number of cases involving homosexual and bisexual individuals.

The Al-Ojeiri Scientific Center announced that the summer season is entering its final phase with the onset of the Al-Kulaibin season on Sunday, August 11. This period is known as the last season to experience increased temperatures before transitioning to more moderate weather conditions.

The Al-Kulaibin season lasts for 13 days and serves as a dividing line between the intense summer heat and the more temperate conditions that follow. According to the Bedouin Arabs, this period is the sixth house of summer, while in the calendar of the houses of the sun and moon, it is recognized as the seventh.

During this season, stormy winds typically calm down, and by the end of the period, the earth’s interior begins to cool. The Al-Kulaibin season is characterized by two stars that mark the last constellation, signaling a gradual shift in the atmosphere.

As the Al-Kulaibin season progresses, a noticeable moderation in temperatures is observed, particularly during the night. The length of the night continues to increase at the expense of daylight hours. At the start of the season, the day lasts for 13 hours and 18 minutes, while the night extends to 10 hours and 41 minutes.

The announcement of the Al-Kulaibin season by the Al-Ojeiri Scientific Center marks an essential transition towards the end of the summer heat. With cooling temperatures and longer nights, this period is a welcome change for residents anticipating the upcoming moderate weather.