In a strategic diplomatic outreach following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, India is reinforcing its zero tolerance policy against terrorism. An eight-member all-party delegation from India will visit Kuwait from May 25 to 27 as part of this effort.

The delegation is led by senior BJP leader Baijayant Panda and will also visit Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Algeria. It includes prominent Indian political figures such as Dr. Nishikant Dubey MP, Asaduddin Owaisi, BJP’s Phangnon Konyak and Rekha Sharma, nominated MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, former Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, and former foreign secretary Ambassador Harsh Shringla.

This delegation is one of seven all-party delegations traveling globally to key partner countries, including members of the United Nations Security Council and the European Union, to convey India's firm stance on terrorism. Collectively, the seven delegations comprise 59 members, including 31 politicians from the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and 20 from other parties, supported by experienced former diplomats.

This diplomatic initiative highlights India’s commitment to fostering global cooperation against terrorism and maintaining peace and security in strategic regions, including the Gulf. Kuwait, being a key partner in the Gulf region, is an important stop in India’s global outreach.

The visit complements ongoing collaborations in trade, energy, and cultural exchanges between India and Kuwait. For more details on India-Kuwait bilateral relations, see our coverage on the India-Kuwait economic partnership.

India’s multi-country diplomatic tours by all-party delegations underscore the nation’s proactive foreign policy to combat terrorism through dialogue and partnerships. These efforts aim to create a united international front against terror activities.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has introduced a new weather warning notification service accessible through the unified government e-services app, Sahl. This initiative aims to enhance public safety and increase awareness about climate-related risks.

According to DGCA spokesman Abdullah Al-Rajhi, the newly launched service enables users to receive instant notifications about weather warnings issued by the relevant authorities. This timely information allows individuals to take necessary preventive actions and better prepare for adverse weather conditions.

The DGCA highlighted that the service is part of a broader effort to raise public awareness about climate change and its potential impact on daily life. By leveraging technology, the government hopes to foster a more informed and prepared community.

The weather warning notifications can be accessed easily through the Sahl app, which consolidates various government services in one platform for user convenience.

This service complements other government efforts aimed at safeguarding residents, such as the recent updates in aviation safety protocols and emergency response systems.

The Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) announced on Saturday that it has completed the distribution of new Kuwaiti banknotes in various denominations to all local banks. This move guarantees a sufficient supply of fresh currency to meet public demand ahead of the upcoming Eid Al-Adha celebrations.

In its official statement, the CBK encouraged customers who wish to obtain the new banknotes to visit their respective bank branches during regular working hours. Additionally, Kuwaiti banks will soon announce the locations of branches designated to provide the “Ayadi” cashing service, a facility designed to ease the process of receiving fresh banknotes. Other convenient methods for obtaining new currency will also be made available to customers shortly.

The distribution of new banknotes comes as part of the CBK’s commitment to ensuring financial readiness during peak periods like Eid. The availability of clean, new currency notes helps facilitate smoother cash transactions and supports local businesses during the festive season.

Kuwait’s financial institutions have recently taken multiple initiatives to enhance customer services and ensure smooth banking operations during important occasions. 

For more information about the official guidelines on currency distribution and the “Ayadi” service, you can visit the Central Bank of Kuwait’s official website, which provides detailed instructions for customers on how to safely exchange and handle new banknotes during public holidays and special events.

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy launched the third edition of the National Energy Saving Campaign (Waffer) on Sunday, aiming to raise awareness about electricity and water conservation. The campaign focuses on protecting vital resources, reducing waste, and supporting environmental and economic sustainability across Kuwait.

At a press conference held at the Government Communication Center, Dr. Adel Al-Zamel, Undersecretary and Chairman of the Electricity and Water Consumption Rationalization Committee, emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of responsible energy use. He explained that the campaign aligns with Kuwait’s national policies and enjoys extensive government support to achieve its objectives.

Addressing Rising Consumption Challenges

Dr. Al-Zamel highlighted the increasing rates of electricity and water consumption in Kuwait, noting the resulting environmental and economic pressures. He urged government agencies, institutions, and individuals to critically reassess their consumption patterns and actively participate in efforts to reduce unnecessary waste.

“This campaign represents a shared national responsibility,” said Al-Zamel, “calling on everyone to adopt rational use as a core value, moderation as a strength, and cooperation as the pathway to sustainability.” He also stressed that Kuwait’s per capita energy consumption remains notably high compared to global standards, necessitating intensified media efforts to encourage responsible water usage.

Engineers Khadija Bushehri and Mohammed Al-Hattab, leaders of the Ministry’s awareness team, presented a comprehensive media campaign designed to promote responsible energy behavior. They highlighted initiatives targeting both public and private sectors, including the promotion of energy-efficient products and sustainable practices.

Educational Outreach to Younger Generations

To instill energy-saving habits early on, the Ministry introduced a children’s awareness video featuring popular cartoon characters "Kahroob" and "Qatura." The animated content aims to educate young audiences on the importance of conserving energy and water resources.

The Ministry invited the public to visit the Waffer pavilion at Avenues Mall (Phase 2) to explore interactive exhibits that demonstrate energy waste and practical methods for efficient consumption. This hands-on experience is designed to enhance understanding and motivate sustainable lifestyle changes.

Dr. Al-Zamel expressed confidence in the campaign’s success through collective participation and praised government agencies for their ongoing efforts to reduce energy consumption in public buildings. The National Energy Saving Campaign is part of Kuwait’s broader vision to secure environmental sustainability and reduce economic burdens linked to resource overuse.

A devastating building fire in the Al-Reggai area early Sunday morning has claimed the lives of six individuals, while five others remain in critical condition. An additional 15 residents suffered varying degrees of burns, from moderate to severe. According to the Kuwait Fire Force, emergency teams were able to contain the fire and prevent further escalation.

Firefighting units from Shuwaikh Industrial and Ardiya Centers, supported by Search and Rescue teams, responded swiftly to the emergency. The fire reportedly broke out in two apartments within the building. Despite the prompt intervention, three charred bodies were recovered, and others were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Some residents were forced to leap from the building’s upper floors to escape the flames, drawing comparisons to the recent Mangaf fire tragedy.

Authorities are actively investigating the cause and circumstances of the fire. Brigadier General Mohammed Al-Gharib, Director of Public Relations at the Kuwait Fire Force, confirmed the rising death toll and linked the incident to unsafe expat bachelor accommodations, which failed to meet basic fire safety regulations.

In light of the incident, the Public Relations and Media Department of the Kuwait Fire Force has issued a strong advisory, urging property owners to:

• Adhere strictly to fire safety standards.
• Ensure external walkways and emergency exits remain unobstructed.
• Avoid renting properties in violation of zoning laws or safety codes, especially to large groups of expatriate bachelors.

Similar warnings were issued after the Mangaf residential fire that also led to multiple fatalities.

The latest tragedy raises urgent questions about the prevalence of unsafe housing and the enforcement of building safety laws in Kuwait. Experts have stressed the need for:

• Regular inspections of rental properties.
• Stricter penalties for non-compliance with fire codes.
• Public awareness campaigns on fire safety and evacuation procedures.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi, has officially approved comprehensive school canteen regulations developed by the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN) and endorsed by the Fatwa and Legislation Department. The newly approved guidelines are expected to come into effect once published in the official gazette Kuwait Al-Youm.

The Ministry of Health emphasized that these regulations are part of Kuwait’s national strategy to combat unhealthy eating habits among students and improve the overall nutritional value of food served in educational institutions.

Comprehensive Framework for School Cafeterias

The updated regulations apply to all public and private schools in Kuwait and serve as a detailed framework governing school canteen operations. The rules are designed to ensure that the food provided to students is safe, nutritious, and compliant with Gulf standard specifications.

• Facility Standards: Specifications for kitchen infrastructure, hygiene practices, and food storage.
• Staff Qualifications: Requirements for training and health certification of cafeteria workers.
• Food Standards: Ban on harmful ingredients such as trans fats, excessive sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats.
• Inspection & Licensing: Introduction of a licensing system along with regular inspections for compliance.

Three Categories of School Canteens

1. Packaged Food Canteens – Sell only pre-packaged, approved food items.
2. Ready-to-Eat Meal Providers – Offer freshly prepared meals without full kitchen facilities.
3. Full-Service Kitchens – Prepare hot meals on-site with dedicated kitchen setups.

Guidelines for Nutritious Meal Planning

The regulations include detailed guidance on meal planning, including:

• Designing meals based on the five basic food groups.
• Customizing caloric intake for different age groups and educational levels.
• Strictly banning foods high in sugar, fat, and sodium, especially for breakfast and lunch offerings in private schools.

This aligns with World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations to reduce childhood obesity and chronic diseases.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The regulations also establish clear penalties for violations, with fines ranging from KD 500 to KD 3,000. Repeat offenses may result in the temporary or permanent closure of the school canteen.

National Health Strategy and Related Developments

This move is part of broader reforms aimed at enhancing public health and nutrition in Kuwait. It follows other initiatives such as the Ministry of Health’s support for emergency medical response modernization and the Food and Nutrition Authority’s market inspections for safety and quality. 

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.