The Kuwait Meteorological Center has issued a forecast indicating a significant heatwave affecting the country over the upcoming weekend. Here are the key points from the statement by Director General Abdulaziz Al-Qarawi to KUNA:

1. Temperature Surge: Temperatures are expected to exceed 50 degrees Celsius in some areas, indicating extremely hot conditions.
2. Weather Progression:
   • Thursday: The weather will start becoming notably hot.
   • Friday: The country will experience intense heat accompanied by unsteady north-westerly winds. These winds are forecasted to carry dust, potentially reducing visibility in open areas.
3. Impact on Residents:
   • Such high temperatures pose health risks, including heat-related illnesses. It's crucial for residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, and take precautions against heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
4. Environmental Impact: The dust-laden winds can exacerbate air quality issues and impact respiratory health, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.
5. Preparedness Measures:
   • Authorities and residents are advised to stay informed through official weather updates and adhere to safety guidelines issued during heatwaves.
   • Measures such as ensuring adequate cooling and hydration, limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and preparing for potential visibility issues due to dust are recommended.

This forecast highlights the extreme weather conditions expected in Kuwait over the weekend, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with such intense heat and dusty winds.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Kuwait has announced plans to form a joint committee dedicated to monitoring and inspecting gold markets and workshops throughout the country. This decision comes in response to numerous complaints regarding commercial fraud within the gold sector, particularly related to weight discrepancies and the fraudulent mixing of copper with gold.

Committee Formation and Objectives

The newly proposed committee is expected to operate for a two-month period. During this time, it will conduct extensive inspection tours based on the complaints received. The primary objective is to ensure compliance within gold workshops and uphold standards to maintain market stability.

Recent Inspections and Citations

In addition to the upcoming committee inspections, teams from the Jahra and Farwaniya governorates have recently organized inspection tours at the fruits and vegetables markets in the Sulaibiya area. These inspections resulted in five citations for various violations, and the violators have been referred to commercial prosecution for further action.

Ensuring Compliance and Market Stability

The formation of this committee signifies the government's commitment to addressing commercial fraud in the gold industry. By enforcing strict standards and conducting regular inspections, the Ministry aims to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of the gold market in Kuwait.

The incident described involves a tragic fire in Farwaniya, where the expatriate's apartment caught fire and resulted in the death of five members of a Syrian family due to suffocation from smoke inhalation. Here's a breakdown of the situation:

1. Fire Origin: The fire originated in the expatriate's apartment located in Farwaniya.
2. Consequences: Smoke from the fire spread to a neighboring apartment where a Syrian family resided. Unfortunately, this resulted in the deaths of five members of that family due to suffocation caused by the smoke.
3. Legal Charge: Authorities have charged the expatriate whose apartment caught fire with manslaughter. This charge indicates that they believe the expatriate's actions or negligence contributed to the deaths of the five individuals.
4. Survival of the Expatriate: Despite the fire in his apartment, the expatriate survived the incident.

Manslaughter charges typically imply that while the expatriate did not intend to cause harm, their actions or failure to act in a certain way led to the loss of life. The legal process will now proceed to determine the exact circumstances and responsibility in this tragic event.

The recent changes in Kuwait's visa issuance policies have led to a notable increase in the entry of visitors from various nationalities over the past four months. Here are the key points based on the information provided:

1. Increase in Visit Visas: Kuwait has streamlined procedures for submitting visit requests, resulting in an average issuance of 8,700 visit visas per week across the six governorates. These visas are categorized into family visits, tourism, and business visits.
2. Breakdown of Weekly Visas: Brigadier Mazid Al-Mutairi detailed that approximately 2,000 business visit visas, 2,900 family visit visas, and 3,800 tourist visit visas are issued on average per week.
3. Government Directive: The decision to open all types of visit visas was directed by Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, emphasizing inclusivity for all nationalities under specific regulations that require strict adherence to Kuwaiti laws by both sponsors and visitors.
4. Compliance and Enforcement: There is a high level of compliance observed among visa holders regarding the duration of their visits, with minimal violations reported. Measures include notifications via the "Sahel" application and SMS to sponsors in case of violations, with escalating penalties for sponsors who do not rectify the situation.
5. Efficiency in Visa Processing: Visit visas are processed efficiently, typically within 15 to 30 minutes if all conditions are met. Decentralization of application processing is promoted to simplify procedures for sponsors seeking visas.
6. Top Nationalities Visiting Kuwait: The top seven nationalities entering Kuwait include Americans, British, Turks, Jordanians, Egyptians, Indians, and Syrians, indicating a diverse range of visitors benefiting from the new visa policies.
7. Enforcement Measures: Strict measures are enforced on sponsors and visitors who violate visa regulations, ranging from warnings to potential bans on receiving sponsorships and, in severe cases, legal penalties including arrest.

In conclusion, Kuwait's approach to visa issuance reflects a balance between openness to visitors and robust enforcement of regulations to ensure compliance and security. The streamlined processes and clear enforcement measures aim to maintain order while facilitating visits for various purposes, contributing to Kuwait's broader goals of economic and cultural engagement.

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) has recently announced the cancellation of residential addresses for 322 individuals in Kuwait. This decision has been prompted either by the declaration of the residence owner or due to the demolition of the building where they resided. 

According to a statement published in "Kuwait Alyoum," PACI has outlined specific steps for those affected by this decision. Individuals who have had their residential addresses cancelled must visit the Authority within 30 days from the date of publication of the announcement. During this visit, they are required to register their new addresses and provide all necessary supporting documents.

It's crucial for the affected individuals to adhere to this timeline and procedure to avoid penalties under Article 33 of Law No. 32 of 1982. This article stipulates that failure to update residential information within the specified timeframe may result in fines of up to 100 Kuwaiti dinars per person.

Therefore, those impacted should act promptly to comply with PACI's requirements and ensure their residential status is accurately updated to avoid any legal consequences.

Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior, outlines important regulations regarding the transfer of domestic workers to the private sector. Here are the key points based on your description:

1. Transfer Period: The transfer from a domestic visa to a work visa in the private sector will be allowed from the 14th of July until the 12th of September.
2. Approval Requirement: To transfer, the domestic worker must have approval from the current employer (sponsor) with whom they are registered.
3. Duration Requirement: The worker must have completed at least one year with their current sponsor before they are eligible to transfer.
4. Financial Fee: A fee of 50 dinars is required for the transfer process.

These regulations are aimed at facilitating the movement of domestic workers into other sectors of employment, potentially offering them greater opportunities outside of domestic service.

The Ministry of Health in Kuwait has launched a new initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience of healthcare facilities across the country by introducing mobile electric generators for emergency use. Here are the key points from the initiative as per the Ministry's statement:

Purpose: The initiative is focused on strengthening the preparedness of healthcare facilities to handle electricity disruptions during emergencies.

Uninterrupted Health Services: The mobile electric generators are intended to ensure continuous provision of health services even in the event of power outages. This is crucial for maintaining care and treatment for patients who rely on medical facilities.

Strategic Distribution: The generators will be strategically distributed to healthcare facilities nationwide. This distribution plan ensures that each facility has access to backup power, enhancing their capability to operate effectively during emergencies.

Swift Deployment: The generators are designed for quick deployment as needed during emergencies. This rapid response capability is essential for providing timely backup power to healthcare facilities facing electricity disruptions.

Emergency Preparedness: By implementing this initiative, the Ministry aims to improve overall emergency preparedness within the healthcare sector. It demonstrates proactive measures to safeguard public health infrastructure and services.

In summary, Kuwait's Ministry of Health's initiative to introduce mobile electric generators for healthcare facilities underscores a commitment to ensuring continuous and uninterrupted health services, particularly during critical situations involving electricity disruptions.

In dual announcements, the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy assured consumers that the recent crisis of power loads and scheduled outages had been resolved. However, the ministry also emphasized the need for continued energy conservation, particularly in the upcoming months, and stressed the importance of year-round rationalization efforts.

Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Customer Services Eng. Falah Al-Mutairi reassured citizens and residents that the programmed power outage crisis had been overcome. “We have resolved the crisis, thank God, and things are very good,” he stated. Nonetheless, Al-Mutairi highlighted the critical role of community cooperation in rationalizing electricity and water consumption, urging public participation in this vital initiative.

Al-Mutairi detailed the Ministry’s efforts to promote energy conservation, including the launch of the “Incentive” program in 2021, which rewards customers who reduce their consumption. He explained that customers saving less than 20 percent receive double the amount saved as a credit, while those saving 20 percent or more benefit from a 40 percent discount on their electricity bill. Additionally, customers who cut their water consumption by 25 percent or more receive a 50 percent discount on their water bill.

Major General (Retired) Faisal Al-Jazzaf, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Retired Officers Association, underscored the national importance of rationalizing electricity and water consumption. He emphasized the citizen’s role in supporting Kuwait’s interests by reducing energy loads and preventing water wastage, particularly by domestic workers during car washing.

Al-Mutairi noted a strong public response to the “Incentive” program, revealing that financial rewards amounting to 121,000 dinars were deposited into participants’ accounts last February. This demonstrates the community’s commitment to energy conservation and the ministry’s ongoing efforts to incentivize responsible consumption.

The Environmental Affairs Committee of the Kuwait Municipal Council, chaired by Alia Al-Farsi, is scheduled to convene its second meeting for the third round to address several key issues. These include:

Proposals by Architect Sherifa Al-Shalfan:

Two proposals aimed at preserving the cleanliness of the marine environment.

A project focusing on aerobic composting.

Letter from the Health Ministry:

Pertaining to the sanitary control of landfills, emphasizing health and environmental concerns.

Letter from Kuwait Green Wall Society:

Detailing collaborative efforts with the Municipal Council, likely related to environmental conservation or urban greening initiatives.

Response from the executive branch (Kuwait Municipality):

Specifically addressing inquiries raised by Alia Al-Farsi regarding the handling of municipal solid waste and construction waste. This response is crucial for understanding the Municipality's policies and practices in waste management.

Approval of Previous Minutes:

The committee will review and approve the minutes of its previous workshop held on September 21, 2023, during the second round of meetings.

In addition to these environmental matters, the Municipality has communicated its decision to the council regarding the Indian Public School's request to relocate its headquarters within Salmiya. The request, which sought a move from Block 12, Plot 11 to Block 10, Plot 28, has been denied due to non-compliance with building regulations. The technical opinion provided by Saud Al-Dabbous, the Director General of the Municipality, clarified that Plot 28 is designated for investment housing and therefore unsuitable for the school's intended use. Plot 28 measures 2,090 square meters and is situated in Block 10, Salmiya.

These developments underscore the Municipality's commitment to regulatory compliance and orderly urban development, alongside its proactive engagement in environmental stewardship as discussed in the upcoming committee meeting.

The article describes a significant security campaign in Kuwait aimed at addressing residency law violations. Here are the key points highlighted:

Security Campaign: The Residency Affairs Investigation General Department at the Interior Ministry launched a large-scale security campaign across Kuwait. This campaign targets residency law violators who did not utilize the grace period to either legalize their status or leave the country.

Arrests and Legal Measures: The campaign resulted in the arrest of several violators. These individuals have been referred to the competent authorities for necessary legal actions, which may include deportation.

Impact on Businesses: The crackdown has led to subdued business activities in areas like Canada Dry Street in Shuwaikh, where worker absenteeism has grown due to fears of the security campaign targeting illegal residents.

Public Awareness and Cooperation: The Public Relations and Security Media General Department emphasized the continuation of security campaigns nationwide. They urged citizens to cooperate with security forces and report any violations or illegal activities.

Worker Absenteeism and Fear: Many workers, particularly daily wage earners and those with expired residency permits, have chosen to stay home or avoid public places due to fear of being caught during the security inspections.

Increased Wages for Legal Workers: The crackdown has indirectly affected the labor market, leading to an increase in wages for legally employed workers in compliant companies as the availability of illegal labor decreases.

Geographical Impact: Various areas such as Mutla’a, Shuwaikh, Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh, Khaitan, Farwaniya, and Jahra Governorate have witnessed a noticeable absence of workers who are usually seen offering services on the streets.

Overall, the article highlights the immediate impact of the security campaign on both illegal residents and the local labor market, as well as the ongoing efforts by authorities to enforce residency laws in Kuwait.

A recent report by the Audit Bureau has revealed that the death rate from diabetes in the State of Kuwait has significantly surpassed the global average, reaching 7 percent compared to the worldwide average of 3 percent.

The annual report from the Bureau’s Performance Control Department, which evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of relevant authorities in curbing the spread of diabetes in Kuwait, showed that Kuwait ranks second among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in terms of diabetes mortality rate. Oman leads with an 8 percent mortality rate, followed by Kuwait at 7 percent, Qatar at 6 percent, the UAE at 5 percent, Saudi Arabia at 3 percent, and Bahrain at 2 percent.

The report highlighted a 35 percent increase in diabetes-related deaths in 2021 compared to 2017, with the majority of deaths occurring among individuals aged 60 to 85 and older, totaling 424 cases.

Additionally, the report noted a troubling rise in the number of school-aged children diagnosed with diabetes, with more than 50 percent of type 2 diabetes cases linked to morbid obesity.

To address these concerns, the Audit Bureau recommended that relevant authorities enact laws and regulations aimed at reducing the risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases. These measures include increasing the prices of tobacco and sugar-sweetened beverages, establishing covered sports halls utilizing existing sports facilities in schools, and creating dedicated cycling lanes in residential areas.

Furthermore, the recommendations emphasize the importance of enhancing health awareness and education across all age groups, as well as encouraging regular health check-ups for the early detection and management of diabetes and its complications.

The Ministry of Interior is planning to introduce physical driving licenses for expatriates, with a proposed fee ranging from 10 to 30 dinars. This fee is intended to cover the costs of raw materials, equipment, and inks needed for the production of the physical ID licenses.

This decision is based on feedback received by the General Traffic Department, highlighting issues faced by expatriates when leaving Kuwait by land. Many Gulf and Arab countries do not recognize the digital driving licenses from the “Kuwait Mobile ID” app, leading to violations.

However, within Kuwait, digital licenses on the “Kuwait Mobile ID” app will continue to be accepted by traffic and rescue patrols.

The Public Authority for Manpower is in the process of giving final touches to a law that will allow domestic workers (Article No. 20) to transfer their work permits to the private sector (Article No. 18). The decision is nearing completion and is expected to be issued before the end of this week. One of the key conditions for transfer is that the worker must have worked with the sponsor for a minimum of one year as domestic worker.

After meeting this requirement, the workers in this category will be eligible to transfer to the private sector. Sources emphasized that transferring a domestic worker’s work permit to the private sector is permissible across various domains such as government projects, SMEs (small and medium enterprises), or any other sector, contingent upon approval from the initial sponsor. In this case the workers are assured full labor rights in the private sector.

The Ministry of Interior is advancing a new traffic law to increase fines for various traffic violations. This initiative follows studies indicating that such violations significantly contribute to rising rates of traffic accidents, reports Al-Anba daily. The objective is not to impose financial burdens on citizens or residents but rather to foster safer roads and reduce fatalities and injuries resulting from accidents.

A security source emphasized that people often comply strictly with traffic regulations in other countries, including Gulf states, due to the high fines imposed there. Many admit to adhering to rules like wearing seat belts and avoiding phone use while driving simply because of the deterrent effect of hefty fines.

Highlighting the inadequacy of current penalties in deterring violations, the source pointed out that fines introduced in the 1970s, such as 50 dinars for running a red traffic light, once represented a substantial portion of salaries but now constitute a mere fraction. This disparity underscores the need for updated penalties that align with current income levels, thereby promoting discipline and enhancing deterrence.

Google Cloud is set to establish its presence in Kuwait within the next two months, following the completion of all necessary commercial and legal procedures and licenses. Sources familiar with the matter disclosed to Al-Qabas that Google Cloud will operate directly with the Kuwaiti government, bypassing the need for a local intermediary. This initiative falls under the framework of Law No. 116 of 2013, aimed at encouraging foreign investment.

The company has selected its team to manage operations in Kuwait and oversee contracts valued at over one billion dollars. These contracts are geared towards facilitating digital and technological transformations across government agencies at all levels.

Recently, Google Cloud announced a strategic partnership with the Government of Kuwait to spearhead a comprehensive digital transformation program. This collaboration aims to leverage Google Cloud’s expertise in data management, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. The goal is to support Kuwait’s national agenda by enhancing citizen services, optimizing government operations, and driving innovation across sectors such as healthcare, education, disaster recovery, and smart city initiatives.

In May 2023, Google finalized the establishment of “Google Cloud Services Company” in Kuwait, operating under the one-person company system with a capital of 600 thousand dinars. This entity is fully owned by Google Europe, Middle East, and Africa Unlimited, in accordance with Kuwait’s Direct Investment Promotion Law.

The forthcoming establishment of Google Cloud’s office in Kuwait marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to fostering digital advancement and partnership with Kuwait’s public sector.

Acting Chief of the Kuwait Fire Force, Major General Khaled Abdullah Fahad, emphasized on Sunday the life-saving potential of a project to connect building fire alarm systems to KFF’s central command, aimed at protecting lives, properties, and ensuring societal safety. In an interview with KUNA, he outlined that a dedicated team is overseeing the implementation of this crucial initiative. Major General Fahad praised the commitment of the First Deputy Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Al-Sabah in conducting inspection campaigns and addressing violations effectively. He highlighted the ambitious scope of the project, which aims to link over 50,000 buildings to the central command, enhancing response times to incidents and emergencies.

Explaining the project’s structure, Major General Fahad detailed its division into three phases based on building types: new constructions, older buildings already equipped with fire detection systems, and those lacking any fire alarm systems. He stressed that the installation of panels in buildings will enable immediate notification to the central command, ensuring swift action within 120 seconds of an incident.

The responsibility for installing these panels lies with the landlords, initially focusing on critical structures such as hospitals. Major General Fahad shared statistics from 2023, indicating that the Kuwait Fire Force managed 16,080 incidents, including 4,394 fires and 1,257 in residential areas. Al-Farwaniya was identified as the governorate with the highest number of fires, predominantly caused by electrical faults. Highlighting progress in safety, he noted a 25% decrease in firefighter injuries compared to 2022, with the longest fire incident lasting between 10 to 19 minutes.

Kuwaiti authorities have relaxed requirements for family residence visas, allowing some non-degree holders to sponsor their immediate family. This change, effective since January 28, 2024, follows a gradual reopening of the program after a suspension in August 2022.

Spouses and children can now be sponsored under the new regulations, but the minimum monthly salary requirement of 800 Kuwaiti dinars remains. Previously, the sponsor also needed a university degree relevant to their field of work.

However, the degree requirement is waived for specific professions. Details regarding these exempt professions haven’t been released yet. It’s recommended to contact the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior for clarification.

This policy shift aims to attract and retain skilled foreign workers by enabling them to reunite with their families in Kuwait.

Dr. Noura Al- Mashaan, Minister of Public Works and Minister of State for Municipal Affairs, emphasized Saturday the urgency of addressing and surmounting obstacles hindering the progress of the new passenger terminal project – Terminal 2. She highlighted the need for effective solutions to expedite construction. Following her meeting with Sheikh Hamoud Al-Mubarak Humoud Al-Sabah, President of Civil Aviation, Dr. Al-Mashaan stated to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that efforts are ongoing to develop Kuwait International Airport’s infrastructure and enhance its operational capabilities.

The discussion also encompassed matters concerning the General Administration of Civil Aviation, the Ministry of Interior, and the General Fire Force, with a focus on governmental performance. Dr. Al-Mashaan emphasized the commitment of all stakeholders to resolve outstanding issues promptly. This meeting forms part of a series of regular sessions aimed at ensuring the timely delivery of the new passenger terminal project, addressing any challenges with external partners to meet required standards. Dr. Al-Mashaan underscored close collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority to overcome obstacles and maintain progress in this pivotal project, integral to Kuwait’s national infrastructure development and economic enhancement.

The sixth generation camera system has been activated to capture images of violating motorists near traffic lights and intersections; while the Operations Unit at the General Traffic Department (GTD) in the Interior Ministry will register traffic violations, reports Al- Shahed daily quoting sources. Sources explained that sixth-generation cameras monitor violations like not wearing a seat belt and using the mobile phone by hand while driving, adding the Operations Unit is in charge of imposing fines on violators.

Sources disclosed that the Control Unit records about 100 traffic violations every hour; including using the mobile phone while driving, not focusing on the road and not wearing a seat belt. Meanwhile, statistics from GTD revealed that the number of using the mobile phone while driving violations reached 186,000 last year. It can be recalled that in September 2017, the ministry imposed fines on drivers who do not wear seat belts and those who use the mobile phone while driving.

However, the lawmakers objected at the time and launched a campaign against the ministry; prompting it to retract the decision. Chaos on the roads resumed as drivers have not been committed to rules on seat belt and mobile phone and other traffic violations. The remarkable increase in the number of traffic violations indicates that many people are ignoring traffic regulations

The Ministry of Interior, with all of its field security sectors, will carry out an unprecedented security campaign against Residency Law violators once the two-week extension of the deadline for them to leave the country or legalize their status ends on Sunday, June 30. Sources from the ministry revealed that the campaign covers all governorates with the participation of security, residency affairs investigation, criminal investigation, rescue, and special services directorates as per the directive of First Deputy Premier, Minister of Interior and Defense Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Saud Al-Sabah. Sources explained that the extensive security campaign is aimed at eliminating Residency Law violators; even those who are in the farms, chalets and remote areas. Sources also warned that the necessary legal measures will be taken against those who harbor these violators. Sources disclosed that four sites have been allocated for violators who will be arrested or surrendered to the authorities after the deadline.

They said these sites include the Deportation Prison, Juvenile Welfare Department building at the Sulaibiya Prison Complex, Accommodation Department, and Detention Department building in the Residency Investigations General Department building along the United Nations Roundabout (formerly Al-Azham). They added these sites could accommodate about 3,500 people in preparation for their deportation upon completion of legal and administrative procedures — the most challenge important of which is coordination with their embassies to obtain travel documents for them. Meanwhile, in a press statement, the ministry confirmed that Assistant Undersecretary for Private Security Affairs at the Interior Ministry Major General Abdullah Saffah Al-Mulla, who heads the field campaign against violators, recently held a coordination meeting with Assistant Undersecretary for Public Security Affairs Major General Hamad Al-Munaifiand officials of the concerned security sectors; during which he conveyed the minister’s instructions.

They discussed the efforts exerted to amend the status of violators who applied for such amendment at the Residency Affairs General Department, ensure the continuous provision of all means of comfort to expatriates staying in the shelters, and complete the security procedures. They also reviewed the mechanism for organizing security and inspection campaigns in various governorates to arrest violators who did not leave the country or legalize their status within the specified period. During the meeting, Al-Mulla stressed the need for full vigilance and readiness of the field security sectors, as well as their concerted efforts to strictly enforce the law. It can be recalled that the ministry deported more than 40,000 violators last year as part of the expanded security campaigns it carried out throughout the country.