Kuwaiti Diving Team Head Waleed Al-Fadhel has reassured the public regarding the recent shark sightings in the Bneider coastal area, emphasizing that the presence of these marine creatures is natural and essential for maintaining ecological balance. Dismissing growing fears of a shark invasion, Al-Fadhel stressed the importance of scientific awareness and responsible interaction with marine life.

Al-Fadhel explained that sharks are an integral part of the Kuwaiti marine ecosystem, not foreign intruders. “Sharks help clean the sea of dead fish and carcasses, acting as natural scavengers,” he said. “They are not in the sea without reason—they play a vital environmental role.”

He further pointed out that the Bneider area has long been known for marine biodiversity and is a hotspot for divers and researchers. Recent photos and video footage showing increased shark activity, especially in Bneider, support this fact. Their presence, according to Al-Fadhel, should be seen as an indicator of the recovery and health of the marine environment.

Warning against overfishing, Al-Fadhel highlighted that sharks are increasingly being hunted for their fins, which are used in making expensive delicacies like shark fin soup. This practice has contributed to their endangered status in several regions.

“Sharks are often misunderstood due to media exaggeration,” he stated, urging the public to avoid panic and misinformation. “Our marine environment has witnessed very few shark-related incidents in Kuwait’s history, and most were not life-threatening.”

He noted that the only truly dangerous species in the region is the white shark, known for its elongated tail. However, such sightings are extremely rare.

Citing marine studies, Al-Fadhel said sharks are not limited to oceans around Australia or the Americas. They are also naturally present in the Arabian Gulf and Red Sea, with regular sightings recorded in Kuwaiti waters.

He emphasized the need for a scientific and environmental approach to understanding shark behavior, rather than relying on fear. “Sharks are a balanced ecological entity. Creating fear without scientific basis benefits no one,” he affirmed.

Marine experts like Al-Fadhel are urging authorities and communities to promote marine education and establish guidelines that balance conservation and safety. Preserving species such as sharks, which are vital to the marine food chain, is essential to sustain biodiversity in Kuwait’s territorial waters.

I have been going through your legal clinic column and I can’t seem to find a clear answer on how many months I can get if I sponsor my mother-in-law, can you please clarify below queries:

1. How many months can I get if I sponsor my mother-in-law? conflicting and vague information I’m getting from the web. Some say one month others say three months.
2. Can you please walk me through on how to obtain the tourist/ visit visa for my mother-in-law. Please clarify the requirement and fees included.
3. How many days does it usually take to process such visa? Hoping for your reply and clarification on the same.

There is nothing conflicting about the duration of a visit visa for a mother-in-law. The rules unambiguously state that the duration of visit/tourist visa for any person other than the immediate family of the applicant is one month for immediate family members, herein referred to as wife, husband and their children the duration is three months.

In short you can only get one month visit visa for your mother-in-law.

To apply for a visit visa you need the following documents:

1. Proof of relationship
2. Copy of visitor’s passport
3. Copy of your civil ID
4. Copy of work permit indicating your salary.

These documents are attached to an application and delivered to the Immigration Department in your area. In most cases this application will be processed on the same day it is presented and it is either approved or rejected. An application fee of KD 3 is charged for visit visa.

The World of Science exhibit introduces visitors to an engaging and futuristic learning environment with themes including energy, robotics, engineering, and innovation. Designed with cutting-edge technologies and interactive stations, it offers a captivating experience for both children and adults.

Currently in its soft-launch phase, the exhibit is accessible only to pre-registered guests through the Center’s official website.

Voices Behind the Vision

Leadership and Community Impact

Engineer Musaed Al Yasin, Director General of the Scientific Center, stated:
“Today marks a historic moment as we celebrate 25 years of impact and inspiration. This is just the beginning of a new era in science education and innovation.”

He also announced the upcoming “Power of Play” facility, set to launch in 2025, aligning with Kuwait’s sustainable development goals through quality education and hands-on learning.

Educational Excellence

Dunya Al-Daghish, Director of Education and Programs, added:
“This exhibit reflects our leadership in fostering a culture of science. Our trained national staff ensures a smooth, enriching learning experience.”

Marketing and Community Enthusiasm

Sarah Al-Yaqout, Director of Marketing and Communications, said:
“We are thrilled to welcome around 200 visitors daily during the trial phase. The full opening will be announced soon on our social media platforms.”

She also highlighted the importance of volunteerism, with the Center’s youth-focused volunteer program running since 2001.

With the unveiling of the World of Science, the Scientific Center continues to be a leader in science communication and STEM outreach. The exhibit celebrates a legacy of impact while opening new doors for future generations.

In a groundbreaking development for Kuwait's financial market, Manakh Studies and Research Company has launched the nation’s first Sustainability Index, evaluating listed companies on the Kuwait Stock Exchange (Boursa Kuwait) through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. This pioneering initiative is a foundational step toward aligning Kuwait with global trends in responsible investment and sustainable corporate conduct.

The Sustainability Index is designed to foster transparency, drive innovation, and support long-term value creation by assessing how companies incorporate ESG principles into their strategies. As reported by Al-Rai, the index reinforces that sustainability is not just a corporate responsibility but a strategic asset that boosts market competitiveness.

Highlighting the 2023 rankings, Jazeera Airways topped the Consumer Goods sector, emphasizing its ESG-driven operations and commitment to responsible business practices.

In an official statement, Manakh emphasized the alignment of this index with Kuwait Vision 2035, which prioritizes sustainable development in corporate strategy. The firm stressed that sustainability has shifted from being a moral directive to a value-generating business model, particularly in international markets.

The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) will require Premier Market companies to begin voluntary ESG reporting in 2025, with mandatory disclosures in 2026.

Many Kuwaiti firms are adopting ESG-aligned strategies to address global challenges like climate change, social equity, and resource efficiency. Investor and consumer demand for transparency in these areas continues to grow.

Manakh’s Sustainability Climate Index uses artificial intelligence to analyze corporate reports and score companies across 12 ESG tiers (AAA+ to D) using global standards and sector-specific weights.

Top Performers in the 2023 ESG Index

• National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) – 79.60 points (A+)
• Zain – 78.90 points (A+), Environmental Score: 87.5
• Boursa Kuwait – 81.90 points (AA)
• Mabanee Company – 77.70 points (A+)
• Agility – 83.25 points (AA) – highest overall
• Jazeera Airways – 72.63 points (A)

NBK, Agility, and Boursa Kuwait scored 83 in social impact. Kuwait Finance House scored highest in governance with 84 points.

The index promotes transparency, aligns Kuwait with global sustainability practices, and encourages businesses to adopt ESG as a core strategy. It complements other national efforts under Kuwait Vision 2035 and initiatives by the Environment Public Authority.

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has recently summoned dozens of expatriates for breaching family visa regulations, under the latest enforcement measures led by the Residence Affairs Investigations Department. The violators have been granted a one-month grace period to either regularize their legal residency status or return their dependents to their home countries.

Expatriates targeted under this action initially qualified for family visas (Article 22) based on a monthly salary exceeding KD 800. However, many later lost eligibility due to job changes or salary reductions, making them non-compliant with the updated visa criteria.

This salary benchmark is not arbitrary. Officials emphasized that it is the result of studies designed to ensure that expatriates can adequately support their families while living in Kuwait.

The updated family visa regulations fall under Ministerial Resolution No. 56 of 2024, issued in January 2024 by First Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Al-Sabah. Initially, the law required applicants to:

• Earn at least KD 800 per month
• Hold a university degree
• Work in a profession aligned with their qualifications

However, in a July 2024 amendment, the degree requirement was lifted. Now, any expatriate meeting the salary threshold can apply for dependent visas, regardless of educational background.

As per Article 29 of the amended resolution:

• Family residency is granted only if the sponsor earns no less than KD 800 per month.
• The sponsor must work in a profession matching their listed job title.
• Exceptions may apply for children under five years of age or those born in Kuwait, subject to approval by the Director General of Residency Affairs.

These conditions ensure consistency in the issuance of visas while preventing misuse.

Kuwait's automated government systems play a pivotal role in detecting irregularities. These systems cross-reference data between agencies such as the General Directorate of Residency Affairs and the General Traffic Department, effectively uncovering discrepancies and potential fraudulent transactions.

The enhanced digital monitoring tools are aligned with broader efforts to streamline public services and ensure strict compliance with immigration laws.

This recent action marks a significant development for Kuwait’s expatriate population, especially those holding dependent or Article 22 visas. Failure to comply within the grace period could result in visa cancellations, fines, or even deportation.

For those impacted, it’s imperative to act swiftly—either by securing a job that meets the salary condition or by repatriating dependents.

The General Traffic Department in Kuwait has commenced an automated process to cancel driving licenses of expatriates who fail to meet the required eligibility criteria. These conditions include maintaining a minimum salary threshold and holding a valid residency permit.

This step is enabled through integrated automated data-sharing systems among government agencies, ensuring timely identification and cancellation of non-compliant licenses.

Authorities have issued a strong warning that expatriates caught driving with a revoked or canceled license will be treated as unlicensed drivers under Kuwaiti law. Such individuals will be subject to legal prosecution and penalties by the concerned judicial bodies.

Therefore, it is crucial for expatriates to regularly verify the status of their driving licenses to avoid inadvertent violations.

Expatriates are advised to frequently check the validity of their driving licenses through official digital platforms such as the Kuwait Mobile ID app or the Sahel app. These apps provide real-time updates on license status, helping users stay informed and compliant with regulations.

Failing to verify license validity will not exempt any driver from legal responsibility in the event of an accident or traffic stop.

Despite the strict enforcement, certain categories of residents remain exempt from the standard eligibility requirements such as salary, residency duration, or academic qualifications. These exemptions are clearly defined by ministerial directives and apply to specific resident groups.

For detailed information on exemptions and eligibility conditions, expatriates can consult official government sources or visit related traffic department portals.

The Kuwait Meteorology Department has issued a warning for hot and dusty weather conditions on Sunday and Monday, driven by moderate to active northwesterly winds with speeds reaching up to 45 km/h. These winds are expected to stir up dust storms, especially in open desert areas, although their impact on residential zones is anticipated to be minimal.

Acting Director of the Meteorology Department, Dharar Al-Ali, told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that Kuwait is currently under the influence of the Indian monsoon low-pressure system. This weather pattern has brought in a scorching air mass that will significantly elevate temperatures across the country.

During the weekend, temperatures are expected to range between 45°C and 48°C across most land regions, making outdoor activities potentially hazardous during peak daylight hours.

From Tuesday through Thursday, the heat is projected to intensify further as the monsoonal depression deepens. Forecasts indicate that temperatures may soar between 48°C and 51°C, accompanied by light to moderate northwesterly winds.

Residents are strongly advised to limit exposure during peak heat hours, especially between noon and 4 PM, and avoid open, dusty areas to reduce the risk of respiratory issues. Individuals working outdoors are urged to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in shaded areas.

Kuwait has been experiencing increasingly harsh weather conditions due to climate change. For instance, the Kuwaiti Fire Force recently issued warnings to raise public awareness on fire hazards related to extreme heat. 

Meteorological studies from global sources like the World Meteorological Organization show that Middle Eastern countries, including Kuwait, are among the most affected by prolonged heatwaves driven by global warming and shifting monsoon patterns.

The Kuwaiti government is undertaking significant reforms to regulate and improve charity activities across the country. These efforts aim to address existing flaws and establish a robust legal and regulatory framework to ensure transparency, integrity, and greater efficiency in charitable and humanitarian work.

A government source revealed to Al-Rai daily that recent regulatory measures, including the temporary suspension of donation collections, are part of a comprehensive strategy to cleanse the charitable sector from any internal or external misconduct or suspicion. These steps demonstrate the government's commitment to upholding the highest standards in humanitarian efforts.

Despite the tightening regulations, the sources assured that charity activities in Kuwait remain active and impactful. The new controls will ensure these activities operate with stricter oversight, protecting both donors and beneficiaries while safeguarding Kuwait’s international reputation.

One of the key proposals under this reform is the creation of a centralized digital platform for all donation activities. Donations will be accepted and distributed exclusively through this system, designed to comply with the highest financial transparency standards locally and internationally. This digital consolidation is expected to boost the credibility and efficiency of charitable operations.

The government also plans to reduce the number of registered charity societies by retaining only main societies and eliminating many of their branches. This move aims to streamline operations, enhance monitoring, and minimize the risks of fund mismanagement or misuse.

The ongoing reforms align with Kuwait’s broader vision of promoting sustainable development and maintaining its position as a trustworthy hub for humanitarian aid. By implementing these changes, Kuwait strengthens its commitment to effective charity work and compliance with global financial transparency norms.

Kuwait recently hosted a pivotal training workshop for members of the technical committees from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, focusing on the "Wafed" program designed for expatriate workers' medical examinations. The event was a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health's Public Health Department and the GCC Health Council, aimed at strengthening regional health cooperation and harmonizing medical examination standards across the Gulf states.

Dr. Fahad Al-Ghamlas, Director of the Public Health Department at the Ministry of Health, announced that the intensive three-day workshop brought together leading doctors and public health experts from all GCC countries. These specialists oversee medical examinations for expatriates arriving from labor-exporting countries, ensuring the health and safety of the workforce across the region.

The workshop's primary objective was to introduce recent amendments and additions to the regulations governing medical checks for expatriates entering GCC countries for work or residence. These updates reflect both regional health priorities and the latest international medical standards, helping to align GCC procedures with global best practices.

A key component of the workshop involved training committee members on applying the accreditation standards guide for medical examination centers. Participants also learned how to use a modern electronic evaluation form to assess the performance and compliance of these centers. Dr. Al-Ghamlas emphasized that these efforts are crucial to enhancing the external medical examination system for expatriates, boosting its efficiency and reliability.

According to Dr. Al-Ghamlas, the training is expected to improve the accuracy and consistency of medical procedures across GCC countries. This will aid in the early detection of communicable and non-communicable diseases among expatriates, ultimately easing the health and economic burdens on regional healthcare systems.

Workshop Highlights

• Hands-on training on technical evaluation methods for medical centers
• Review and update of Gulf health requirements for expatriate medical screening
• Modernization of clinical, laboratory, and radiological examination protocols
• Alignment of procedures with international medical standards

Kuwait's hosting of this workshop for the second time underscores its commitment to unifying health policies and enhancing cooperation among GCC states. This initiative is part of a broader strategic plan to elevate preventive and therapeutic healthcare services within the Gulf region.

The Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has announced a nationwide ban on delivery motorcycles during specific daytime hours for the summer months. Effective June 1st through August 31st, all delivery motorcycles are prohibited from operating between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily.

In an official press release issued by the General Department of Public Relations and Security Media, authorities warned that any violation of the time restriction will be treated as a breach of delivery permit conditions. Companies and drivers failing to comply may face penalties or suspension of their operating licenses.

Heat Risk and Road Safety Concerns

This decision comes in response to escalating concerns regarding worker safety during extreme summer heat, which often exceeds 50°C in midday hours. The regulation also aims to minimize traffic congestion and improve overall road safety during high-density periods.

All delivery service providers are advised to adjust their operational schedules and inform their riders accordingly. Employers are encouraged to implement worker protection measures and consider alternative delivery timings to remain compliant with the law.

This move follows similar initiatives aimed at safeguarding workers during summer, including Kuwait’s midday work ban for laborers in open spaces (read more here). The authorities continue to issue regular advisories focusing on public health and occupational safety.

Residents relying on daytime deliveries are encouraged to plan accordingly or opt for early morning or late evening delivery slots. Businesses are expected to adapt quickly, potentially leading to a shift in consumer delivery patterns and operational strategies.

Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Dr. Adarsh Swaika, highlighted the historical and cultural ties between the two nations during the exhibition. The event featured Indian-printed books on pearl diving, vintage currency, stamps, and old manuscripts that provide a rare glimpse into the shared heritage shaped by centuries of interaction.

“This exhibition is a window of awareness for the younger generations about the long-standing relations between our countries,” said Ambassador Dr. Swaika. “The artifacts displayed represent only a fraction of the legacy we share with Kuwait — much of it predates the formation of our modern states.”

Ambassador Swaika traced the origins of this relationship to the late 18th century when Kuwaiti merchants sailed to Indian ports with dates, horses, and pearls, returning with rice, spices, textiles, and timber not only for Kuwait but for the entire Gulf region. This flourishing maritime trade laid the foundation for enduring economic and cultural exchanges.

The exhibition aims to educate youth in both countries about the historical depth and richness of Indo-Kuwaiti relations. Ambassador Swaika also expressed appreciation to Fahad Al-Abduljaleel, President of the Kuwaiti Heritage Society, whose remarks to India’s Prime Minister inspired the exhibition.

Among the highlights were rare photographs of official visits, including Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem’s historic trip to India and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s groundbreaking visit to Kuwait in December. Ambassador Swaika described these high-level exchanges as pivotal moments that strengthen bilateral relations and anticipates a reciprocal Kuwaiti visit in the near future.

Dr. Mohammad Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters (NCCAL), praised the 250-year friendship between India and Kuwait as more than just diplomatic ties. “This relationship has never been just about mutual interest,” he noted. “It has always reflected a rare model of understanding, coexistence, and mutual respect.”

Dr. Al-Jassar emphasized culture’s vital role in building people-to-people connections, stating, “From the depths of the sea to the depths of the heart, Kuwait and India have woven centuries of cultural, economic, and human bonds.” He thanked the Indian ambassador and Fahad Al-Abduljaleel for their efforts in preserving this shared history and reaffirmed NCCAL’s commitment to supporting such cultural initiatives.

On the sidelines, a panel discussion gathered members of prominent Kuwaiti merchant families with historic ties to India. Participants shared personal anecdotes and insights into their ancestors’ interactions with Indian traders, underscoring how these longstanding connections fostered a foundation of friendship that continues today.

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy has reported importing an average of 599,151 megawatts of electricity per day from the Gulf Interconnection Network during April. This measure comes in response to soaring summer temperatures and maintenance activities affecting domestic power generation units.

According to a report by the ministry’s Statistics Department, the imports are part of proactive efforts to maintain grid stability and prevent disruptions during peak electricity consumption periods.

Sources from the ministry disclosed that power imports from the Gulf grid began earlier this year due to unexpectedly high temperatures and reduced output from local stations. Although most power generation units are expected to be back online by the end of May, two units will remain under extended maintenance.

On April 26, peak electricity consumption reached 13,150 megawatts, while the minimum demand was 7,460 megawatts.

Water consumption also saw a surge, with a maximum daily usage of 466.9 million imperial gallons recorded on April 30. Meanwhile, strategic water reserves peaked at 2.59 billion gallons.

The ministry connected electricity to 790 new customers in April, primarily in private housing projects. 

Despite rising electricity consumption, the ministry confirmed that recent activation of power production units has helped stabilize the national grid. These actions aim to reduce the risk of outages and reflect coordinated planning between local and regional energy sources.

As part of its ongoing efforts to digitize and enhance public services, Kuwait's General Traffic Department has officially announced the launch of an online driving test appointment booking system. This new feature, available starting June 1, 2025, can be accessed through the Sahel mobile application, offering a faster and more efficient process for both citizens and expatriates

Designated Driving Test Days for License Categories

• General Driving Licenses: Every Sunday and Wednesday
• Motorcycle Licenses: Every Monday and Thursday

This structured scheduling aims to ease traffic at test centers and ensure a more streamlined process.

How to Book Your Driving Test Appointment via the Sahel App

1. Open the Sahel app and log in using your credentials.
2. Navigate to the Ministry of Interior section.
3. Tap on Traffic Services.
4. Select Driving Test Appointments.
5. Choose your preferred date and license category.
6. Confirm the appointment.

This new feature reduces the need for physical visits and long queues, making the process more user-friendly and efficient.

The digital driving test booking is part of a broader vision to modernize public service delivery in Kuwait. By embracing digital transformation, the General Traffic Department aims to:

• Improve the efficiency of traffic-related services
• Reduce administrative burdens
• Offer a more convenient experience for users

This initiative aligns with the government’s broader digital strategy, which includes other innovations such as online vehicle registration renewals and digital civil ID services.

Officials from the Traffic Affairs and Operations Sector indicated that the online appointment system is only the beginning. Future upgrades may include:

• Notifications and reminders for scheduled appointments
• Integration with driving school systems
• Online payment for test-related fees

These improvements reflect the department’s long-term vision to make traffic services more responsive, accessible, and technology-driven.

The Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN) has confirmed that meat and dairy products in Kuwait are safe for consumption, even after recent reports of foot-and-mouth disease at select cattle farms. The Authority clarified that this viral disease, while highly contagious among livestock, does not transmit to humans through the consumption of meat or dairy.

• Purchase dairy and meat products only from trusted and licensed sources.
• Always choose pasteurized dairy products.
• Avoid buying products from unauthorized vendors or unverified outlets.

These guidelines align with Kuwait’s rigorous food safety regulations, ensuring the continued protection of consumer health.

PAFN emphasized that routine inspections and testing are being conducted across cattle farms to contain the spread of the disease. The outbreak is being handled through strict veterinary protocols and preventive measures in accordance with international food safety standards.

International Insight on Foot-and-Mouth Disease

According to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a viral illness that affects cloven-hoofed animals but poses no direct threat to humans through food.

Kuwait continues to enforce stringent monitoring systems to ensure food quality and safety. In collaboration with other national agencies, the PAFN remains vigilant, particularly in high-risk zones and during peak demand seasons.

Conclusion

Despite the recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease at certain farms, Kuwait's meat and dairy supply remains safe for consumption. The Public Authority for Food and Nutrition continues to implement and enforce robust safety measures, urging the public to purchase from reputable sources and ensure dairy products are pasteurized.

Ahmed Al-Kandari, Assistant Undersecretary for Administrative and Financial Affairs at the Ministry of Justice, has issued an internal circular requiring all employees within the Administrative and Financial Affairs Sector to activate their accounts on the Civil Service Bureau’s online portal system and mobile application.

This new policy aligns with Kuwait’s broader digital transformation initiatives across government institutions and is intended to streamline administrative procedures, eliminate paper-based transactions, and improve efficiency.

1. Activation of Digital Services

All employees are now required to utilize the Civil Service Bureau’s digital platform, accessible via its official website and mobile app. This will allow them to:

• Submit periodic and emergency leave requests
• Apply for various types of leave (official, personal, medical)
• Obtain employment certificates and financial documents

As part of this change, paper-based forms will no longer be accepted after Thursday, May 15, 2025.

2. Supervisory Responsibility for Timely Approvals

Supervisory staff must ensure prompt approvals of employee requests via the portal. This directive is critical for maintaining workflow continuity and ensuring successful adoption of the digital service system.

3. Sector-Wide Communication and Compliance

The circular emphasizes the need for immediate implementation and full compliance across all departments within the sector.

This initiative falls in line with other ongoing efforts by Kuwaiti institutions, including the Civil Service Commission, to digitize internal operations. Similar mandates have been observed across other ministries, including efforts to eliminate paper-based sick leave certificates.

• Download the Civil Service Bureau mobile app
• Register or log in with their Civil ID
• Navigate to the administrative services section
• Use the system for all HR and leave requests

The Ministry of Justice's move to mandate digital service activation highlights Kuwait's continued push toward e-governance and paperless operations. This transition will not only modernize administrative processes but also enhance transparency and efficiency.

In a move to modernize legal procedures, the Ministry of Justice in Kuwait has introduced a new feature within the Sahel app that allows users to submit requests for arrest and summons of individuals who have failed to meet their financial obligations. This development marks a significant step in improving digital legal services and streamlining enforcement operations.

As part of the Ministry’s remote enforcement services, creditors can now file electronic requests for the arrest or summons of debtors directly through the unified government e-services platform. The initiative aims to improve the accessibility and efficiency of debt recovery procedures.

The Ministry confirmed that the General Department of Enforcement will carefully review each submission to ensure it meets legal standards before initiating any action.

In addition to submitting requests, users can monitor the status and progress of their cases in real time via the Sahel platform. This transparency helps enhance trust in government services and reduces the need for in-person follow-ups.

The Ministry emphasized that this feature is one of many being rolled out by the General Department of Enforcement as part of its strategy to offer comprehensive digital legal support to the public.

This latest update aligns with Kuwait’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives. The Ministry of Justice continues to expand its suite of e-services to simplify legal procedures for citizens and residents alike.

Users are encouraged to explore other digital services offered on the platform, such as case follow-ups, online payments, and legal document submissions.

Kuwait recently hosted the Korea Health and Beauty Festival at The Avenues Mall on May 16–17, marking a new chapter in Kuwait-South Korea relations. The event was inaugurated through the joint efforts of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, the Korea Tourism Organization, and the Korea Trade Promotion Corporation (KOTRA).

Ambassador Park Chung-suk emphasized the festival's significance in enhancing cooperation between the two nations, particularly in medical tourism and healthcare services. He noted that the event provided Kuwaiti attendees with an immersive South Korean experience that highlights advancements in cosmetic medicine, sophisticated healthcare, and wellness tourism, all deeply rooted in Korean culture.

Held in one of Kuwait’s largest commercial venues, the Avenues Mall, the festival included a variety of interactive attractions such as:

• Health consultations by experts
• AI-powered skin diagnostics
• Live cosmetic and skincare demonstrations
• Massage therapy sessions
• Cultural exhibits including the traditional Korean attire, hanbok
• Handmade crafts
• Live musical performances including K-pop shows and the Korean performance ‘Nanta’

Medical Tourism Evening Bridges Business Connections

Ahead of the public festival, a Korean Medical Tourism Evening was organized on May 15 at the Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Resort. Over 100 attendees from the healthcare and travel sectors engaged in:

• Presentations by leading South Korean hospitals
• One-on-one consultation sessions
• A keynote speech by a Kuwaiti influencer sharing personal experiences in South Korea

Ambassador Park noted that Kuwaiti demand for medical and beauty-related travel to South Korea has surged by 65% in 2024 compared to the previous year.

Culture as a Vehicle for International Cooperation

Park emphasized that Korean culture has evolved into a medium for international cooperation in health, education, and humanitarian sectors. He reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Kuwait.

Dr. Mohammad Al-Jassar, Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), praised the festival for enhancing mutual understanding and for the participation of artists and professionals from both countries.

Enhancing Kuwait's Role in Regional Medical Tourism

The Korea Health and Beauty Festival reinforced Kuwait’s role as a regional hub for medical tourism and cultural diplomacy, while promoting South Korea as a preferred destination for high-quality healthcare and aesthetic services.