In a landmark move, Kuwaiti authorities have revoked the nationality of 207 individuals after a meticulous, year-long investigation uncovered one of the largest cases of citizenship fraud in Kuwait’s history. The elaborate network involved falsifying family files and forging identities, largely connected to individuals of Syrian origin.

The investigation began in July 2024, following an anonymous tip-off implicating a man named Qassem, a naturalized Kuwaiti believed to be a Syrian national who fraudulently acquired citizenship. Qassem’s sudden flight from the country after being flagged raised immediate red flags, prompting a deeper probe.

His sister, married to a Syrian contractor and residing in Kuwait, was summoned for interrogation. She confirmed his identity and citizenship status but denied knowledge of his current location.

Investigators shifted focus to Qassem’s children, one of whom serves in a Kuwaiti security force. DNA testing involving his sister and her husband confirmed the children’s biological ties to a Syrian lineage, definitively proving the fraudulent claim to Kuwaiti nationality.

Further examination of Qassem’s official family registry revealed 22 listed “siblings.” Six of those—Qassem included—were complete fabrications. The other 16 were verified as genuine citizens, shocked to discover that fake names had been inserted into their official file without their knowledge or consent.

To uncover the identities of the remaining fraudulent individuals, Kuwaiti authorities partnered with Syrian agencies and the Central Agency for Illegal Residents (Bedoon). The trail led to five others—also of Syrian or stateless background—who had similarly vanished overseas to escape investigation.

By May 2025, two more individuals were positively identified. Their Kuwaiti citizenships, along with those of their spouses and children, were immediately revoked. For the remaining three, extensive DNA testing was conducted among their children and known relatives in Kuwait, linking them back to Syrian families and confirming the widespread nature of the fraud.

The Supreme Nationality Investigation Committee concluded its review by fully dismantling all the forged files. This included revocations from six separate fraudulent family registries:

• Jassim’s file: 40 people (revoked July 2025)
• Mohammed’s file: 31 people (revoked July 2025)
• Ahmed’s file: 32 people (revoked July 2025)
• Qassem’s file: 16 people (revoked earlier)
• Awad’s file: 23 people (revoked earlier)
• Saleh’s file: 65 people (revoked earlier)

The Kuwaiti government reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward identity forgery and manipulation of national records. Officials have pledged to pursue all past and future cases, regardless of the offender's current occupation, status, or location.

Authorities emphasized that Kuwaiti nationality is a matter of national security, and any individual found to have obtained it through deception will be legally prosecuted and stripped of status.

Conclusion

This sweeping crackdown reflects Kuwait's unwavering commitment to protecting the integrity of its citizenship system. With further investigations expected, this case has set a new precedent in cross-border cooperation, use of DNA verification, and forensic auditing of family files.

The operation not only serves as a deterrent to future fraudsters but also reinforces the state’s resolve to maintain trust in the national registry system.

According to recent data released by the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) as of June 30, 2025, Salmiya has emerged as the most densely populated region in Kuwait, with a total population of 331,462 residents. This surge underscores the growing demand for residential and commercial services in this coastal hub known for its retail, dining, and leisure offerings.

Trailing Salmiya is Al-Farwaniya, which recorded 309,871 residents, and Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh, home to 282,263 people. These two areas are commonly characterized by high concentrations of expatriate workers, limited living space, and heavy infrastructure loads. Their continued population density presents persistent challenges for urban planners and service providers.

Hawalli, a major residential and commercial district, holds the fourth spot with a population of 242,214. Its central location and proximity to key amenities maintain its appeal among both locals and expatriates.

In fifth place is Mahboula, which now hosts 230,854 residents. Its steady rise is attributed to ongoing real estate development and its strategic location near industrial zones and business hubs.

These updated population figures offer valuable insight into Kuwait’s shifting urban dynamics. They serve as critical input for:

• Urban planning: Strategizing housing and transportation development
• Resource allocation: Optimizing utility and health services distribution
• Public service delivery: Improving accessibility and quality across high-density zones

With areas like Salmiya and Mahboula showing substantial growth, the government and private sector must focus on scalable infrastructure and services to keep pace with rising demand.

The Technical Committee of the Municipal Council, led by Engineer Munira Al-Amir, has approved a comprehensive request by the Kuwait Flour Mills and Bakeries Company to broaden its operational scope across all bakery locations in Kuwait.

Following a detailed meeting, the committee recommended granting the company permission to introduce a wider range of food and beverage services at its current bakery sites. This decision aims to enhance the consumer experience while aligning with Kuwait’s evolving urban development goals.

• Retail sale of all food products manufactured by the company
• Serving hot and cold beverages
• Sale of pies, pastries, and sweets
• Operation of oven-based bakeries
• Operation of traditional tandoor-style bakeries

Additionally, the company has been permitted to utilize designated areas for the manufacturing and storage of industrial products related to its operations. This approval is conditional and requires clearance from the Ministry of Finance, Public Authority for Industry, and other relevant entities.

The approval is subject to specific conditions to ensure regulatory compliance and urban planning integration:

• Submission and approval of detailed activity layout plans by the Urban Planning Department
• Allowing technical staff to adjust activity labels according to the Ministry of Commerce and Public Authority for Industry codes
• Fulfillment of all contractual obligations with the Ministry of Finance and the State Property Department
• Revocation of any previous decisions that conflict with the newly sanctioned activities

Engineer Munira Al-Amir also confirmed the committee’s approval of a proposal by Engineer Alia Al-Farsi to launch an awareness campaign on Kuwait’s Fourth Master Plan. This initiative will be coordinated with relevant departments to educate citizens and stakeholders about the plan’s goals and implementation strategy.

Other Referred Proposals for Development

• Proposal to develop new residential cities and commercial/investment buildings
• Request to allocate several floors of Al-Hamra Tower for the development of an international hotel

This decision to broaden the operational framework of Kuwait Flour Mills and Bakeries Company not only boosts local food services but also reflects ongoing efforts to drive Kuwait’s economic and urban modernization.

Kuwait has implemented a new policy requiring expatriate workers in the private sector to obtain an exit permit from their employers before leaving the country. This move is part of efforts to ensure the resolution of all legal, financial, and administrative obligations between employers and workers.

Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) Director Ahmad Al-Muzaini clarified that the decision aims to reduce the increasing number of labor disputes that arise after workers exit the country. He noted that the system especially benefits business owners managing a large workforce, helping them protect their legal and material interests.

To prevent misuse, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Al-Sabah directed PAM to receive complaints from expatriates whose employers unjustifiably refuse to issue exit permits. Al-Muzaini emphasized that since the implementation of the policy, no abuse cases have been recorded, and over 100,000 electronic permits have been issued successfully.

PAM handles complaints from both employers and workers through its local centers across all governorates. The authority reportedly addresses issues immediately upon receipt to ensure fair and quick resolutions.

Al-Muzaini also addressed the annual midday work ban that prohibits labor in open areas under direct sunlight during summer months. This regulation, in effect since 2015, is part of Kuwait’s humanitarian commitment to worker safety and health.

He stated that no violations have been recorded this year, indicating strong compliance among employers. Citizens are encouraged to report any violations via PAM’s hotline or other official communication channels. Inspection teams are ready to respond promptly to such reports.

These measures reflect Kuwait’s continued effort to ensure a balanced labor environment, where the rights of both employers and workers are protected. Through policies like the exit permit system and midday work ban, authorities aim to foster transparency, fairness, and safety in the private labor sector.

The Acting Director of the Public Relations and Media Department at the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM), Mohammad Al-Muzaini, announced that the authority continues its strategic efforts to implement Kuwaitization across government contract jobs.

PAM is actively coordinating with various ministries to enhance the employment of Kuwaiti nationals in sectors including Electricity, Water, Public Works, and Health. According to Al-Muzaini, the first phase of Kuwaitization has already been completed in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

As part of the next phase, PAM has launched awareness programs and initiated interview rounds with the Ministry of Public Works. Job applications are currently being sorted as the authority aligns its efforts with the national labor market balance strategy.

The Kuwaitization plan targets reducing over-dependence on expatriate labor by integrating Kuwaiti youth into the workforce. This aligns with the broader vision to encourage citizens to pursue private-sector careers rather than rely solely on government jobs.

Al-Muzaini emphasized that PAM applies national labor quotas to companies and organizes employment fairs in collaboration with banks, the Union of Banks, and telecommunication companies. These initiatives aim to offer viable job opportunities and attract Kuwaiti talent to sectors that were previously dominated by expatriate workers.

In addition, PAM has begun Kuwaitizing the health and hospitality industries to further expand employment opportunities for citizens.

Al-Muzaini noted a significant success: some companies have voluntarily exceeded their Kuwaiti labor quotas, employing up to 40% nationals without being legally mandated to do so. He attributes this to PAM’s effective qualification and training programs that prepare nationals for the private sector.

“These results reflect the growing confidence in our youth and the strong impact of professional development initiatives designed to align national talents with the needs of the labor market,” Al-Muzaini added.

By actively pushing forward with these Kuwaitization measures, the Public Authority for Manpower underscores its commitment to reshaping the country's employment landscape—prioritizing local talent while reducing dependency on expatriate labor.

As part of its ambitious New Kuwait 2027 development strategy, the State of Kuwait has launched a comprehensive digital twin project aimed at enhancing smart governance, infrastructure planning, and inter-agency coordination. The initiative will create a highly accurate virtual replica of Kuwait’s physical environment, integrating data from various government agencies, notably the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI).

At the heart of this digital transformation lies the creation of ultra-high-resolution maps—boasting less than 10 cm accuracy—spanning over 2,500 square kilometers of Kuwait’s landmass. These maps will offer detailed insights into:

• Urban layouts and infrastructure
• 3D representations of buildings
• Green spaces and urban land cover
• Topographic features

Kuwait will leverage artificial intelligence to continuously monitor and update geographic data. The integration of AI systems will reduce update cycles from one year to under three months, significantly enhancing accuracy and efficiency. This will also lower reliance on manual labor by utilizing satellite and aerial imagery to monitor urban changes.

To ensure smooth implementation, government employees are undergoing training in AI-driven systems and data evaluation. This will support advanced monitoring and management of public infrastructure across sectors.

In parallel, Kuwait is investing KD 3.5 million to overhaul the Sahl app, a centralized digital services platform launched in 2021. The upgrade will transition the app to a managed services model with a dedicated technical support team.

Key goals include:

• 24/7 operational readiness
• Improved cloud infrastructure compatibility
• Enhanced user experience and accessibility

To further advance its digital governance goals, Kuwait is formulating a National Digital Skills Framework aligned with the internationally recognized Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA). This framework will:

• Identify digital skills gaps across public sector entities
• Define job roles and career paths
• Support workforce development in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI

Driving Regional Leadership in Smart Governance

Kuwait’s strategic move towards a digital twin ecosystem places the nation on track to become a regional leader in digital transformation by 2027. By harnessing AI, cloud technologies, and spatial analytics, the project is expected to reduce government spending, improve service delivery, and enable smarter policy decisions.

The Center for Government Communication (CGC) has outlined new regulations that all travelers must follow when carrying cash and valuable items through Kuwait International Airport. These rules, published in line with the Customs Inspection Procedures Guide, are aimed at improving transparency and compliance.

According to the CGC, anyone carrying cash or its equivalent totaling KD 3,000 or more—in either local or foreign currency—must declare it upon arrival or departure.

Travelers are also required to carry high-value items such as jewelry, watches, and electronic devices in their hand luggage, accompanied by valid purchase receipts.

Gold in all forms—whether raw, jewelry, or ornaments—must be declared. Travelers must submit an outgoing customs declaration form at departure and present purchase receipts upon arrival.

Failure to declare gold may result in arrest or confiscation of the undeclared items.

The CGC has urged travelers to complete the customs declaration form when departing from Kuwait International Airport to avoid legal issues or delays.

Violating these customs procedures may lead to arrest, fines, or confiscation. Authorities encourage all passengers to comply strictly with the regulations.

Mrs. Shyamala Divakaran, the visionary founder and long-serving principal of Gulf Indian School (GIS) in Fahaheel, Kuwait, has passed away at the age of 78. Her passing marks the end of an era in Indian education in Kuwait.

Originally from North Paravoor in Kerala, she dedicated her life to shaping the academic and moral framework of generations of Indian students in Kuwait. She leaves behind her husband and two children, Dr. Aruna and Dr. Rajeev, both of whom currently reside and work in the United States.

Mrs. Divakaran served as the Principal of Gulf Indian School for more than 20 years before retiring in 2022. Under her leadership, GIS evolved into one of the most respected Indian educational institutions in the country, known for academic excellence and holistic student development.

Her commitment to fostering discipline, moral values, and academic rigor helped establish a strong reputation for the school.

GIS Pays Tribute to Its Founding Soul

“She was not merely an institution builder; she was the soul of GIS – a woman whose quiet strength, radiant kindness, and steadfast vision transformed education into something sacred.”

Her dedication, humility, and deep care for every student set a gold standard in school leadership.

Mrs. Divakaran played an instrumental role in shaping the educational experience for thousands of expatriate children in Kuwait. Her leadership earned her admiration from students, parents, and fellow educators.

A Life Remembered

While she may no longer walk the halls of Gulf Indian School, Mrs. Shyamala Divakaran’s legacy will continue to inspire. Her story is one of vision, perseverance, and lifelong service.

India’s domestic airlines are actively restructuring their international flight schedules after the India-Kuwait air services agreement was updated on July 16, raising the weekly seat quota from 12,000 to 18,000. This marks the first increase in nearly two decades and has triggered a swift response from major Indian carriers eager to capitalize on the additional capacity.

Leading carriers including IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, and Air India Express have confirmed plans to enhance their services to Kuwait International Airport.

• IndiGo is seeking approximately 5,000 additional weekly seats to Kuwait City.
• Air India Express and Akasa Air are each aiming for around 3,000 seats.
• Air India is targeting an increase of 1,500 seats.

Airline executives have reportedly begun coordinating with Kuwait International Airport authorities to secure necessary airport slots ahead of the planned service launch in August 2025.

Focus on Southern Indian Cities with High Demand

New flights are expected to be launched from Chennai, Kochi, Bengaluru, and Thiruvananthapuram, cities known for their strong travel demand to Kuwait, especially among expatriate populations.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has asked all interested airlines to submit proposals by July 21 to finalize capacity distribution and begin regulatory clearances for the expanded operations.

The air services agreement signed on July 16 marks a pivotal update in India-Kuwait aviation relations, finally increasing the seat allotment after an 18-year freeze. The previous limit of 12,000 weekly seats had long been considered insufficient, with rising demand leading to seat shortages, higher prices, and booking difficulties.

If you’ve been officially terminated by your employer and have a valid termination letter, you are not considered absconding under Kuwaiti labor law. According to the legal framework, an absconding case can only be filed if the employee has been absent from work without notification for seven consecutive days. If you have already started working with a new employer, you are legally in the clear — assuming your visa transfer is in process.

Residency and Work Permit Transfer

Under Kuwait’s labor law (Private Sector), after an employee’s termination, the employer must either cancel the work permit or transfer it to a new sponsor within 90 days. If you have documentation proving you were terminated — and you’re actively working for another company — you are not considered absconding.

Article 42: Grounds for Absconding Reports

As per Article 42 of the labor law, a worker can be reported as absconding only if:

• They are absent from work without notice,
• They are not traceable for seven consecutive days.

Since you were officially terminated and have secured new employment, these conditions do not apply to you.

Can a False Case Be Filed?

Unfortunately, some companies may misuse the absconding mechanism to pressure former employees into compliance. While this is illegal, it does happen. If a false report is filed despite a termination letter, this is considered filing a false complaint, which is punishable under Kuwaiti law.

Steps to Take Immediately

1. Complete Your Residency Transfer Immediately

If your new employer hasn’t already processed the residency (iqama) transfer, urge them to complete it before the 90-day window closes. Once transferred, your old employer loses the authority to file any claim against you.

2. Maintain All Evidence

• Termination letter
• Communication (emails, WhatsApp, SMS) from previous employer
• New job offer or employment contract
• Civil ID copy showing ongoing work

3. Contact the Ministry of Labor (Shoon)

If an absconding case is filed:

• Visit the Ministry of Labor immediately.
• Present your termination letter and proof of new employment.
• A false report can be challenged and nullified.

4. Seek Assistance from Current Employer

Request your new employer’s HR to:

• Expedite iqama transfer,
• Provide documentation of your start date (e.g., May 4, 2025),
• Assist with legal matters if needed.

Final Advice: Act Quickly and Legally

You are not absconding. Your former HR manager is using intimidation tactics. However, time is crucial — completing your residency transfer closes the legal window for any threats.

Kuwait witnessed some of the hottest temperatures this summer on Tuesday, with the Meteorological Department reporting a sweltering 51°C in the Al-Rabiya area. Other regions, including Jahra, Abdali, and Kuwait International Airport, also recorded extreme heat, reaching 50°C.

Acting Director of the Meteorological Department, Dharar Al-Ali, stated in a briefing to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the current heatwave is the result of an extension of the Indian monsoon depression. This phenomenon has brought with it an intense and dry air mass, accompanied by light to moderate northwesterly winds. Coastal areas may experience variable wind patterns due to this atmospheric shift.

According to forecasts, Kuwait will continue to experience extremely hot daytime conditions and hot to warm nights over the next several days. The situation is particularly challenging along the coast, where humidity levels are expected to increase. However, the Meteorological Department anticipates a noticeable drop in humidity starting Friday.

The department further predicts that maximum temperatures could range between 50°C and 52°C in several regions. These extreme weather conditions are expected to persist through Saturday, urging residents to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Authorities are advising the public to minimize outdoor exposure during peak hours and to stay well-hydrated. Elderly individuals, children, and outdoor workers are especially vulnerable during this period.

The Kuwait Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued a directive requiring all real estate brokers and precious metals dealers in the country to register with the automated alert system managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This system provides real-time updates on international sanctions lists related to counterterrorism, terrorism financing, and arms proliferation.

According to a report by Al-Rai Daily, the ministry emphasized that the registration is mandatory and must be completed by July 31. Failure to comply will result in financial penalties in line with applicable legal frameworks.

This move comes as part of Kuwait’s broader commitment to international obligations under frameworks that aim to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and the illegal spread of weapons. The sanctions alert system helps businesses stay updated on blacklist designations that could impact their operations.

The Ministry stated, “All concerned parties must complete their registration by the deadline to avoid penalties and ensure their operations are aligned with international compliance standards.”

Real estate brokers and precious metals traders are particularly vulnerable to being unknowingly involved in financial transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities. By registering with the alert system, these businesses will receive timely notifications that allow them to take immediate action to remain compliant.

This initiative is aligned with the country’s ongoing efforts to reinforce financial transparency and protect its economy from illegal activities. Recent efforts by the Kuwait Financial Intelligence Unit (KWFIU) and Ministry of Commerce have also included stricter audits and training programs to promote compliance awareness.

Kuwait’s approach aligns with global best practices set forth by organizations such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which sets the standards for combating money laundering and terrorism financing.

The Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has officially approved the Genesis G90 as the designated vehicle for government ceremonies and protocol, underscoring the nation’s trust in the brand’s luxury, performance, and reliability.

Under the agreement with the Genesis agency in Kuwait, a fleet of G90 sedans will be delivered to the Ministry, customized to meet the specifications laid out by the General Traffic Department.

The Genesis G90 is the brand’s flagship luxury sedan. It features a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine with 375 horsepower, advanced safety systems, air suspension, and rear-wheel steering — combining innovation and comfort in one executive vehicle.

The model is already used by the Kuwaiti National Assembly for official transportation, affirming its credibility and high-level functionality.

The decision reflects Genesis’ rising reputation among government institutions. With this approval, the brand further cements its presence in Kuwait's public sector. 

This move aligns with Kuwait’s broader efforts to modernize its transportation assets across ministries — similar to upgrades seen in the Ministry of Public Works’ infrastructure projects.

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy reported that Kuwait’s national grid imported 612,692 megawatt-hours of electricity in June 2025 through the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), averaging 850 megawatts daily.

On June 16, the electricity load hit a peak of 17,520 megawatts, a 6.6% increase from 16,810 megawatts in June 2024. The spike corresponded with a temperature rise to 51°C, up from 50°C last year.

The lowest recorded load was on June 5 at 10,280 megawatts, a decrease of 6.1% compared to the previous year's 11,430 megawatts.

The Ministry connected electricity to 627 new customers across sectors:

• Private housing: 559
• Government housing: 32
• Investment: 18
• Agricultural: 9
• Industrial: 5
• Commercial: 4

Total electricity demand from new customers reached 77,822,746 kilowatts.

Freshwater consumption peaked at 517.459 million imperial gallons on June 4. Meanwhile, maximum water storage hit 4,300.573 million imperial gallons by the end of June.

Dr. Khaled Al-Ajmi, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA), issued decisions to extend and transfer officials to enhance performance and workflow.

• Bader Al-Azmi: Director of Awareness and Guidance Center
• Abdul Mohsen Al-Makhyal: Controller at Charitable Societies and Endowments
• Asim Al-Failakawi: Controller at Development and Membership Affairs
• Huda Al-Mutairi: Head of Administrative Support Department
• Kholoud Al-Khalidi: Head of Elderly Department

The General Traffic Department has officially reopened Hussein Bin Ali Al-Roumi Road—commonly referred to as the Fourth Ring Road—in the direction of Al-Adailiya. The reopened section lies between Damascus Street and Riyadh Street (Route 50) and became accessible to motorists at dawn on Sunday, July 13.

The reopening allows smoother and faster commutes for travelers moving from Salmiya towards Shuwaikh, which is a key traffic corridor in Kuwait.

This move is part of the broader Traffic and Operations Sector’s efforts to upgrade road infrastructure across the country. Regular maintenance and enhancement projects are being executed to improve traffic flow, minimize congestion, and ensure road safety for commuters.

The department urged all drivers to adhere to traffic regulations and speed limits while using the newly opened section to prevent accidents and ensure road safety.

The General Traffic Department continues to call for public cooperation and responsible driving during and after infrastructure enhancements. With the reopening of this key road segment, commuters are expected to experience less congestion and improved travel times, especially during peak hours.

In a significant move aimed at strengthening ties and simplifying travel procedures, the Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr. Adarsh Swaika, has officially announced the launch of the India e-visa service for Kuwaiti citizens, starting Monday. The announcement was made during a press conference held on Sunday, where Swaika described the development as “a qualitative shift in facilitating travel procedures and strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.”

The newly launched Indian e-visa service includes five main visa categories:

• Tourism
• Business
• Medical
• Conference
• AYUSH (alternative medicine, such as yoga and Ayurveda)

Swaika highlighted that Kuwaitis can now apply entirely online—eliminating the need to visit Indian visa centers. Applicants can submit forms, upload documents, and pay electronically. Biometric data will be collected upon arrival at any Indian airport.

The tourist visa is valid for up to five years and costs only $80, while other visa types range from $40 to $80. Processing time is typically three to four days, though minor delays may occur during initial rollout.

The e-visa launch is in response to longstanding requests from Kuwaiti nationals and reflects the deep historic and friendly ties between India and Kuwait. The move aims to:

• Promote tourism and cultural exchange
• Boost trade and business relations
• Encourage Kuwaiti investments in India
• Expand Indian company presence in Kuwait

Last year, 8,000 to 9,000 Kuwaitis visited India on tourist visas, a number expected to rise with simplified procedures.

Under a bilateral civil aviation agreement, 12,000 weekly seats are allocated to each country. Flights operate between nine direct destinations through:

• Kuwait Airways
• Jazeera Airways
• IndiGo
• Air India Express
• Akasa Air

Student visas remain outside the scope of the e-visa service and must be processed through traditional visa centers.

Ambassador Swaika hopes that this step will increase travel for tourism, business, and medical reasons, contributing to enhanced people-to-people connections between the two countries.

In a major step toward digital inclusion, Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah has announced the launch of a transformative digital accessibility initiative, developed in strategic collaboration with Microsoft. This project utilizes cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to facilitate equitable access to digital content and government services for people with disabilities in Kuwait.

This initiative is part of Kuwait’s broader e-government transformation and is set to significantly enhance the nation’s position in the United Nations E-Government Development Index (EGDI).

The new accessibility platform includes over 30 AI-powered features designed to meet global digital accessibility standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These features are tailored for individuals with:

• Visual impairments
• Dyslexia
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Epilepsy
• Cognitive and motor impairments

A standout feature is an AI-based interactive avatar that translates text and speech into Kuwaiti Sign Language using real-time animation. This facilitates instant and seamless communication for the deaf and hard of hearing, adjusting for user-specific speed, volume, and interaction.

Advancing Accessibility Through Technology

The project underscores Kuwait’s commitment to digital equity and ensures:

• Arabic language compatibility with accessibility tools
• WCAG-compliant government and service websites
• Real-time sign language translations beside content
• Unified accessibility across public and private platforms

Dr. Al-Huwailah confirmed that this effort is strongly backed by Kuwait’s political leadership, reflecting a national dedication to the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities.

The initiative ensures barrier-free access to key services, supporting Kuwait’s vision of an inclusive digital future. It aligns with global recommendations by bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF.

A Vision for an Inclusive Digital Future

Dr. Al-Huwailah emphasized that Kuwait’s aim is not only to comply with international standards but also to lead the region in accessibility innovation. The partnership with Microsoft places Kuwait on a path toward true digital inclusion, where everyone — regardless of ability — can fully participate in society.

In a significant move aimed at reinforcing national legal talent, Attorney General Counselor Saad Al-Safran issued a directive to transfer several prosecutors from partial and specialized prosecution offices to the General Prosecution Office. This decision is part of Kuwait’s broader strategy to "Kuwaitize" its legal framework and empower qualified local professionals across all levels of the justice system.

What makes this announcement especially noteworthy is the inclusion of highly qualified Kuwaiti women prosecutors in the transfers. This marks the first time such appointments have been made at the General Prosecution Office, establishing a new precedent in the country's legal history.

This action reflects Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to gender equality and inclusion in leadership roles, reinforcing the importance of diversity in shaping a robust judicial framework.

Aligning with Vision of National Leadership

The decision comes in line with the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who has consistently emphasized the importance of increasing the participation of Kuwaiti nationals, especially women, in all branches of the state, including key sectors like the judiciary.

In a related development, Counselor Saad Al-Safran also appointed Counselor Badr Al-Masoud—currently serving as First Attorney General and Head of the Attorney General’s Technical Office—as the new Head of the General Prosecution Office.

Strengthening the Justice System with National Talent

The recent reshuffling underscores Kuwait’s commitment to building a future-ready judiciary rooted in national expertise and diversity. By promoting capable Kuwaiti legal professionals—both men and women—the country is reinforcing its foundations of justice, equality, and administrative integrity.

The Kuwait Municipality has introduced a new electronic application designed to streamline the complaint submission process. This initiative supports Kuwait’s digital transformation efforts and aims to enhance communication between the Municipality and the public.

• A detailed user guide for submitting complaints electronically via the official municipal platform
• Direct access to emergency teams through the 24/7 hotline No. 139

Capital Governorate Committee Meeting Highlights

The Capital Governorate Committee of the Municipal Council, chaired by Dr. Hassan Kamal, convened its second meeting in the fourth term on Wednesday. Two major proposals were approved:

1. Qadsiya Cooperative Society Connectivity

The Ministry of Social Affairs requested approval to construct a ground-level passageway linking the central market building of Qadsiya Cooperative Society with its vegetable branch and administration building.

2. Kuwait Sports Club Stadium Expansion

The Public Authority for Sports (PAS) requested approval to increase the stadium height in Kaifan to 34 meters, boosting capacity from 12,000 to 15,000. The committee emphasized preserving residential privacy, minimizing noise/light disruption, and conducting a traffic study.

1. Kuwait Technical Entrepreneurship Complex

The Public Authority for Youth was granted approval to implement the Kuwait Technical Entrepreneurship Complex (formerly Technology Business City) in Mubarak Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber, Block Four, with modifications to project components.

2. Investment Housing Parking Spaces

Member Alia Al-Farsi's proposal to enhance parking spaces for investment housing was approved to alleviate congestion in residential zones.