Kuwait has entered a new phase of global openness since last July through the “Kuwait Visa” platform, launched by the Ministry of Interior to streamline electronic applications for various types of visit visas — including tourist, family, commercial, and government.

The decision to open visa applications through the new digital platform marks a strategic shift in the government’s approach, reflecting a balance between economic stimulation and security regulation. It signals Kuwait’s growing commitment to facilitating travel while maintaining control and oversight.

As part of the state’s digital transformation strategy, authorities are preparing to launch the “Visit Kuwait” platform in early November. This will be the only official portal authorized to receive applications from local and international companies seeking to organize tourism, cultural, artistic, entertainment, or public events in the country.

Officials say the platform is designed to be a strategic tool to boost Kuwait’s cultural and tourism development and to advance the creative economy, allowing the private sector to play a larger role in producing quality events.

Together, the Kuwait Visa and Visit Kuwait platforms aim to create a coordinated national system for managing visitor movement and event organization — a step aligned with the goals of Kuwait Vision 2035 to position the country as a regional hub for culture, tourism, and entertainment.

Although the long-term impact will take time to assess, early indicators point to positive effects on real estate, tourism, and trade, enhancing Kuwait’s competitiveness in the region.

Expert Views: Economic and Tourism Momentum

Real estate expert Qais Al-Ghanem said the decision may not have an immediate effect on the property market but will strongly benefit the hotel and tourism sectors. He described the move as a positive step toward economic openness, though he expects its full impact on investment real estate to become clear only after six months.

Ibrahim Al-Awadhi, Chairman of the Real Estate Association, noted that the steady issuance of visit visas will drive occupancy in investment properties, stimulate the commercial cycle, and revitalize shopping centers, hotels, and restaurants.

He said occupancy rates in investment properties currently stand at 87%, adding that a shortage of apartments in high-demand areas like Salmiya and Hawalli could lead to gradual rent increases.

Nabila Al-Anjari, CEO of Leaders Group Consulting and former Assistant Undersecretary for the Tourism Sector, expressed great optimism about the electronic visa system, calling it a long-awaited reform that demonstrates previous fears about tourism openness were unfounded.

“The high demand for e-visas proves that Kuwait can become an attractive tourist destination if the right environment is created,” she said, noting that tourism revenues reached around $1.7 billion in 2024 — an unprecedented figure.

Al-Anjari added that the introduction of a third visa category for applicants from countries not previously eligible — provided they demonstrate financial solvency — will further expand Kuwait’s tourism base.

She emphasized that the next phase requires a clear vision for Kuwait’s tourism identity, along with enhancing infrastructure and hosting year-round events and festivals, noting that “visas alone cannot create a sustainable tourism renaissance.”

Through these initiatives, Kuwait is demonstrating a measured approach to global integration, coupling digital innovation with economic diversification. The twin platforms — Kuwait Visa and Visit Kuwait — are expected to streamline travel, empower private sector participation, and strengthen Kuwait’s role as an emerging cultural and economic destination in the Gulf region.

Fifteen-year-old Arnav Rai, formerly a student at Fahaheel Al-Watanieh Indian Private School (FAIPS) in Kuwait, has become the first World Science Scholar from Kuwait.

Arnav, who is currently studying in Singapore, will spend the next year studying modern science, including particle physics, gene editing, neuroscience, nanoscience, astrobiology, and string theory, on a fully-funded scholarship.

His journey will combine live seminars, interactive projects, and direct mentorship from some of the world’s most distinguished scientists.

The World Science Scholars (WSS) program is a prestigious initiative founded by the World Science Festival that identifies, nurtures, and supports exceptionally talented high school students in mathematics and science from around the world. Its aim is to provide young scientists with advanced opportunities to explore complex scientific concepts and engage directly with leading experts in their fields.

This year, only 52 students worldwide were chosen, making Arnav’s selection a rare achievement.

Through the program, Arnav will collaborate with peers from over twenty countries, engage in advanced research discussions, and participate in scientific projects designed for conventional learning. The scholars also have the opportunity to attend the World Science Festival in New York on an all-expenses-paid trip.

Reflecting on his selection, Arnav said, “It’s an honor to represent Kuwait. I hope to use this experience to inspire other students to dream big and see science as a way to make life better for everyone.”

His achievement not only marks a personal milestone but also places Kuwait on the global map for nurturing scientific talent, highlighting the growing spirit of innovation among youth in the Middle East.

Arnav’s recognition is expected to inspire students from Kuwait to pursue STEM disciplines beyond the classroom, demonstrating that global opportunities in science are within reach.

Kuwait witnessed remarkable import activity during the second quarter of 2025, with the total value of imports rising to approximately 3.26 billion dinars, compared to 2.68 billion dinars in the same period last year—an increase of nearly 22%, according to the latest data from the Central Statistical Bureau.

The surge reflected a broad diversity of goods, spanning from vehicles and gold to medical devices and vaccines, underscoring the vitality of the local market and an expanding appetite for consumption across multiple sectors.

Vehicles Lead Import Growth

Vehicles topped the list of imported goods, recording a 20.5% increase to 376.4 million dinars during Q2 2025. This rise highlights continued strong demand for new cars for both personal and commercial use.

Gold Imports Jump 119%

Gold and jewelry imports climbed sharply by 119% to 202 million dinars, demonstrating that citizens and residents continue to view gold as both a safe investment and a preferred adornment despite higher global prices.

Medical and Technological Goods

Imports of medical supplies and vaccines rose by nearly 29%, reflecting steady demand in both the public and private healthcare sectors. Meanwhile, packaged and prepared medicines saw a dramatic 324% jump.
Mobile phone imports totaled 100.2 million dinars, marking a 15.9% increase.

Consumer Goods on the Rise

Kuwait also saw a surge in consumer goods imports. Essential oils, cosmetics, and perfumes reached 129 million dinars, reflecting the market’s sustained interest in luxury and personal care products.

Imports of soap and detergents amounted to 37 million dinars, while footwear reached 57 million dinars, signaling healthy retail activity.

Children’s toys and sports equipment imports reached 28.4 million dinars, and artistic and archaeological artifacts totaled 850,000 dinars, showing diverse consumer preferences and growing interest in lifestyle and leisure goods.

Food Commodities and Cocoa Imports

Food imports also expanded, with fruit imports valued at 95 million dinars and coffee, tea, and spices totaling 43 million dinars.

Kuwait’s cocoa and cocoa product imports rose to 38 million dinars during the first half of the year, indicating a notable increase in demand for chocolate-related goods.

Energy Sector and Industrial Materials

Imports of oil and gas pipelines and fittings soared by 400%, reflecting ongoing activity in the oil sector’s infrastructure expansion and maintenance projects.

China and the UAE Lead as Top Trading Partners

China maintained its position as Kuwait’s largest exporter, with imports reaching 668.8 million dinars, up 42.1% year-on-year.

The UAE ranked second with 457 million dinars (+24%), followed by the United States with 266 million dinars.

Japan ranked fourth at 198 million dinars (+47%), while imports from South Korea jumped 63%, Indonesia 59.6%, and the United Kingdom 45%.

Economic Momentum

These indicators reflect a clear improvement in Kuwait’s overall economic sentiment, supported by increased government spending, development projects, and rising consumer confidence.

The growing number of trade exhibitions and promotional campaigns points to sustained domestic demand, suggesting that 2025 will be a year of robust spending and economic activity, buoyed by stable oil prices and an optimistic investment climate

Dr. Mohammed Abdel Salam, Senior Respiratory and Sleep Medicine Specialist at Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital and the Kuwait Sleep Medicine Center, revealed that around 500,000 people in Kuwait suffer from sleep disorders, noting that the center has received 2,500 cases so far this year.

Dr. Abdel Salam explained that the center has witnessed a notable rise in demand in recent years, reflecting the growing number of sleep-related cases. The center’s multidisciplinary team includes respiratory, neurological, and psychiatric specialists, as sleep disorders are often linked to both physical and psychological conditions, reports Al-Jarida daily.

He described how patients undergo sleep studies in specialized rooms equipped with cameras and monitoring devices to analyze body movements and vital functions during sleep, allowing for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Abdel Salam underscored the vital importance of sleep to overall health, noting that it accounts for 25–30% of a person’s lifetime. Disruptions in sleep, he warned, interfere with the body’s detoxification and restorative functions and may lead to serious chronic illnesses.

Among the most common disorders, he said, are sleep apnea (20% of cases) and insomnia (30%), in addition to circadian rhythm disorders and abnormal behaviors during sleep such as walking, screaming, eating, or acting out dreams — which can endanger both the patient and others. Other frequent conditions include narcolepsy, snoring, and interrupted sleep.

He highlighted the strong connection between sleep disorders and chronic diseases like obesity, hypertension, dementia, and stroke, given their impact on the body’s vital systems.

Dr. Abdel Salam also emphasized the role of mental health in diagnosing and managing sleep disorders. Patients undergo psychological and neurological assessments to identify underlying causes, including nightmares and sleepwalking, which he described as a disconnection between the sleeping brain and an active body.

Concluding with advice for better sleep, he urged the public to view healthy sleep as a necessity, not a luxury, recommending regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding meals within three hours before bedtime, limiting screen use an hour before sleep, and maintaining 7–9 hours of rest nightly, ideally between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.

The Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Insurance Regulation, Muhammad Al-Otaibi, has announced the cancellation of Resolution No. 70 of 2023, which pertained to the issuance of a unified insurance policy system for civil liability arising from traffic accidents (compulsory vehicle insurance), along with its subsequent amendments.

The decision comes in implementation of a court ruling issued in Appeal No. 448 of 2025. It also nullifies Decision No. 14 of 2024, which had amended Resolution No. 70 of 2023. Furthermore, the ruling orders the temporary suspension of work on the electronic insurance platform, known as “Bima,” until the competent authority determines the rules, conditions, and tariffs for civil liability insurance for traffic accidents, reports Al-Rai daily.

Article 2 of the decision reinstates Resolution No. 9 of 2020, which sets out the rules for issuing civil liability insurance policies for traffic accidents. It also cancels Resolution No. 7 of 2024, which had updated the approved list of companies authorized to issue such policies.

This move effectively reverses previous regulatory changes aimed at standardizing and modernizing vehicle insurance policies in Kuwait, pending further decisions by the relevant authorities.

The temporary suspension of the electronic Bima system is expected to impact the digital processing of compulsory vehicle insurance, giving regulators time to review and finalize updated procedures.

The decision underscores the judiciary’s role in shaping insurance regulations in Kuwait, ensuring compliance with legal rulings before implementing significant reforms.

Insurance companies and policyholders are advised to follow updates from the Supreme Committee for Insurance Regulation regarding the reinstatement or modification of compulsory insurance procedures.

Officials indicated that the step is necessary to maintain legal clarity and ensure that all insurance practices align with court directives and regulatory standards.

The ruling also highlights ongoing efforts to balance technological modernization of insurance systems with adherence to established legal frameworks in Kuwait’s financial and insurance sectors.

Stakeholders are expected to monitor forthcoming announcements closely, particularly concerning new rules, tariffs, and authorized providers for compulsory vehicle insurance policies.

The report highlighted a clear shift in activity toward outer urban areas, especially in the commercial and investment segments, signaling heightened investor appetite for rental and income-generating assets.

The commercial sector led this remarkable performance, recording record-breaking sales of 441 million dinars. This was largely due to several major transactions involving commercial plots in the Ahmadi Governorate, including 240 million dinars worth of deals concluded in August alone.

Such activity underscores renewed investor confidence in commercial real estate, bolstered by expectations of stable returns and new development opportunities. Despite historical fluctuations in this sector, the current surge suggests a strong recovery momentum driven by both private and institutional investors.

Meanwhile, growth in the residential sector remained subdued, constrained by affordability challenges and limited supply.

Sales in this segment reached 396 million dinars during the third quarter, marking a 5.3% quarterly decline but a modest 3.2% increase year-on-year. Interestingly, the number of residential transactions grew by 15.6%, indicating higher demand in lower-priced areas such as Ahmadi and Jahra.

This trend reflects a shift in buyer focus toward more affordable housing options amid rising living costs and constrained household budgets.

In the investment property segment, sales remained robust at 407 million dinars, supported by a 7% increase in bank lending to the real estate sector during July and August.

Although annual growth slowed to 28%—down from an exceptional 116% in the previous quarter—the sector continues to display resilience, aided by recent regulatory reforms related to investment housing and foreign ownership. These changes have contributed to increased investor confidence and diversified market participation, particularly among institutional and regional investors.

Excluding commercial activity, overall real estate sales growth across the residential and investment sectors slowed to 14.5% year-on-year, down from 61% in the previous quarter.

Nevertheless, NBK’s report emphasized that the underlying fundamentals remain strong, supported by improved financing conditions and government-backed development initiatives. The anticipated enactment of the Real Estate Finance Law, alongside possible interest rate cuts, is expected to sustain momentum in the coming quarters by enhancing liquidity and expanding access to credit.

On the policy front, the Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW) has adopted a strategic roadmap aimed at strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors to accelerate housing development.

The plan envisions the implementation of large-scale projects under a public-private partnership model, with the first phase covering key areas such as Al-Mutlaa, East Saad Al-Abdullah, and joint projects in Jaber Al-Ahmad and West Saad Al-Abdullah. This initiative seeks to alleviate Kuwait’s housing shortage, with registered housing applications reaching 103,110 by mid-July.

In line with this strategy, PAHW signed an investment contract in July for a 12,575-square-meter mixed-use project in the Qairawan area.

The authority also reported notable progress on major infrastructure projects in South Saad Al-Abdullah and South Sabah Al-Ahmad cities, several of which were completed ahead of schedule. However, data from MEED magazine revealed that the overall value of housing projects awarded in the third quarter fell sharply to 20 million dinars, compared to 100 million dinars in the previous quarter, highlighting potential execution bottlenecks despite strong planning activity.

On the financial side, Kuwait Credit Bank approved housing loans worth 61 million dinars during the third quarter—up 28% from the previous quarter—signaling a rebound in financing activity after a four-year low earlier in the year.

However, the value of disbursed loans declined by 14% to 82 million dinars, suggesting that project completion and disbursement processes may still be facing delays. Nonetheless, the upward trend in approvals points to renewed confidence in the housing market and stronger demand from eligible citizens for government plots.

The NBK report also highlighted a slowdown in real estate price growth during the third quarter, with its Real Estate Price Index rising by only 1.4% year-on-year, compared to 2.9% in the previous quarter. The decline was mainly driven by a 1.8% drop in residential property prices, partially offset by a 5.3% increase in investment property values.

Despite the moderation, overall prices remain above last year’s levels, reflecting underlying market resilience and sustained investor interest.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Kuwait’s real estate market remains cautiously optimistic. The upcoming implementation of the Anti-Monopoly Law on Vacant Lands in January 2026 is expected to curb speculative hoarding and encourage more efficient land use. Coupled with the Real Estate Finance Law and potential monetary easing, these measures could help stabilize prices and support steady market growth.

While challenges persist—particularly in residential affordability and project execution—the overall trajectory points to a more balanced and dynamic real estate sector poised for sustainable expansion.

The Kuwait Municipality has completed its comprehensive study on proposed amendments to the advertising regulations, paving the way for their referral to the Municipal Council for review and approval.

According to a copy of the draft obtained by Al-Anba daily, the updated regulations introduce new articles, definitions, fines, and operational requirements to improve oversight, ensure public safety, and preserve the visual appeal of Kuwait’s urban landscape.

Stricter Penalties for Violations

• The amendments introduce graduated fines for advertising violations:
• KD 100–500 for advertising social events without a license or failing to renew an existing license.
• KD 500–3,000 for informational or business-related advertisements or for promoting prohibited goods.
• KD 3,000–5,000 for displaying commercial advertisements without obtaining a proper license.

New Definitions and Technical Standards

• The revised regulations introduce a series of new definitions, clarifying terms such as advertising medium, advertising site, and electronic billboard.
• Advertising medium now includes any fixed or mobile means — traditional or digital — used for promotional purposes, including billboards, vehicles, posters, and screens.
• Advertising site covers locations such as shops, public buildings, state property, beaches, vehicles, and marine sites.
• Electronic billboards are categorized as moving or fixed, depending on whether the content changes during the license period.
• To reduce glare and visual clutter, billboards are prohibited from using strong lighting, and trade names must appear in uniform color and size, except for licensed commercial agencies. The maximum height for billboards and their bases has been capped at seven meters.

New Licensing and Renewal Procedures

Under the new framework, advertising licenses will be issued and renewed electronically. The Municipality retains the right to revoke or shorten the validity of any license when required by public interest, without financial liability or compensation to the license holder.

• Facade advertisements will share the same validity period as the related commercial license.
• Other advertisement licenses will be valid for one year, except for auctioned billboards or those with special terms.
• Licensees must maintain their advertisements throughout the validity period and remove them within three weeks of license expiry, cancellation, or business closure. If they fail to do so, the Municipality will remove the ads at the licensee’s expense.

Design and Location Restrictions

• The Municipality will determine the location, dimensions, and specifications of each billboard as part of the licensing process.
• No modification may be made without prior municipal approval.
• Empty billboards must not be left bare to prevent visual pollution.
• Aesthetic frames are allowed but must not exceed 50 cm on each side and will not count toward the billboard’s total area.
• A minimum distance of 300 meters must separate each billboard on highways.
• Bridge advertisements are banned, following objections from the Public Authority for Roads and Land Transport.

Special Provisions and Fees

• Lightbox advertisements on shop fronts are now formally regulated.
• An annual fee of KD 40 will apply to advertisements displayed on motorcycles offering delivery services.
• Commercial advertising companies will pay an annual fee of KD 100 for their ads.
• For electronic screens, a minimum annual fee of KD 75 per square meter will be charged for each display side.

Advertisements on Vehicles

• Ads may be placed on taxi sides without protruding.
• Fixed electronic billboards (maximum 40 cm high × 120 cm wide) may be mounted on vehicle roofs, provided they are self-lit and within size limits.
• Lighting must be fixed and non-dazzling, and installation requires Traffic Department approval.

Shopfront and Facade Advertising

For shops and establishments, facade advertisements must adhere to the following:

• Installed on or above the shop’s front facade, without obstructing views.
• Height not exceeding three meters.Must not extend beyond the property boundaries.
• Lighting must be self-contained and static.
• Design plans must be approved by a municipality-accredited engineering office confirming material safety and installation quality.
• Shops in multi-story buildings must use fixed, non-moving lighting systems, while projections may not exceed five meters in length or two meters in height.

Enhancing Urban Aesthetics and Order

The updated advertising regulations reflect the Municipality’s broader goal of organizing the advertising sector, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and enhancing visual harmony in Kuwait’s streets and public spaces. Once approved by the Municipal Council, the new rules will form the foundation for a modernized, transparent, and unified advertising system.

The latest data released by the Central Statistical Administration revealed that employment in Kuwait’s public and private sectors rose by about 4.1% over the past year, reaching 2,229,434 workers in June 2025 — an increase of 88,414 compared to June 2024.

According to the report issued on Monday, the number of Kuwaiti workers declined by 0.6% year-on-year, totaling 448,919 in June 2025. In contrast, the number of non-Kuwaiti workers increased by 5.4%, reaching 1,780,515.

The figures showed that Kuwaiti nationals accounted for 20.1% of the total labor force, while expatriates made up 79.9%.

In terms of nationality, Indian workers ranked first with 578,244 individuals, followed by Egyptians with 469,371, while Kuwaiti workers came in third place.

As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen security and ensure the safety of public spaces, the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources plans to install surveillance cameras across public parks in Kuwait. The initiative aims to monitor visitor behavior and curb acts of vandalism or misuse of public property.

According to informed sources, the project is awaiting approval from the relevant authorities to allocate the required budget, with implementation expected to begin next year. This move is part of a broader strategy to improve the management, maintenance, and overall environment of public parks nationwide, reports Al-Rai daily.

The sources highlighted that visitor behavior plays a crucial role in preserving these facilities, noting that many issues stem from a lack of adherence to cleanliness standards and respect for public spaces.

They added that the pilot project to install cameras along Shuwaikh Beach proved highly effective in reducing property damage and improving cleanliness — prompting plans to expand the system to all public parks.

The authority is also advancing several development and beautification initiatives, including the establishment of new public parks in areas such as Sabah Al-Ahmad City, Jaber Al-Ahmad City, and Abdullah Al-Mubarak. These efforts form part of the Authority’s broader vision to expand green spaces and enhance the quality of life across the country.

The Municipal Council has approved a major change to Kuwait’s street naming system, agreeing to replace the names of 591 streets with numbers. The decision came during an extraordinary session held earlier today, chaired by Abdullah Al-Mahri.

During the session, the Council endorsed the minutes of the committee for studying proposals and requests for naming cities, suburbs, regions, streets, and public squares, which was established under Ministerial Resolution No. 558 of 2023, reports Al-Rai daily.

According to the committee’s report, in addition to numbering 591 streets, three streets will be renamed after cities and capitals of Arab countries, while 66 existing street names will be retained.

In a major step to enhance financial transparency and protect customer rights, the Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) has issued updated instructions under its Bank Customer Protection Guide, introducing a series of reforms aimed at improving banking practices and promoting financial inclusion across society.

The CBK emphasized that these measures are part of its ongoing efforts to ensure that all segments of society benefit equitably from banking and financial services under clear and transparent regulations.

Faster Complaint Resolution and Enhanced Accountability

Among the most notable updates—set to be fully implemented by April 2026—is the reduction of the period for responding to customer complaints from 15 to 5 working days.

Banks are now required to develop performance indicators to measure customer satisfaction and the quality of complaint handling. These indicators must be submitted quarterly to each bank’s CEO, ensuring faster and more transparent resolution processes.

Clarity on Credit Card Renewal Fees

A long-standing point of confusion regarding credit card renewal fees—particularly for MasterCard and Visa cards offered free for the first year—has now been resolved.

The Central Bank has made clear that banks may not collect any fees or expenses on cards that were initially granted free of charge and cancelled within the stipulated free period.

Furthermore, banks must ensure that all promotional offers clearly outline the terms and conditions of “free” services, ensuring customers are fully aware of their rights before committing.

Mandatory Customer Consent for Card Renewals

The updated guide introduces a new rule requiring explicit customer consent for credit card renewals.

If a contract includes automatic renewal, the bank must notify the customer at least three months before the renewal date through approved communication channels.

The notice must also explain the cancellation process and disclose any renewal-related fees, such as annual or service charges. Customers retain the right to use their product or service until the end of the contractual period unless they choose to cancel it.

Transparent Information and Fair Pricing

Banks are now obligated to provide customers with a basic information document outlining key details about products or services—such as features, fees, obligations, and eligibility criteria—before signing any contract.

This measure is designed to help customers make informed financial decisions.

To enhance transparency further, the CBK has introduced a requirement for banks to disclose the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for all credit products. This will allow customers to compare offers and select the best rates, promoting greater competitiveness in the banking sector.

Additionally, the Annual Total Return (ATR) rate will be applied to deposits, enabling customers to identify the best savings rates and encouraging efficient use of surplus funds. Banks will also offer online calculators for financing products and credit cards, helping customers estimate appropriate installment levels based on income.

Special Provisions for Minors and People with Disabilities

The CBK has also issued new controls for dealing with minor clients, including requirements for notifying custodians when accounts are opened and granting them review rights. Banks are encouraged to develop age-appropriate products that improve financial literacy among younger customers.

For customers with special needs, banks must facilitate all transactions without requiring witnesses, unless specifically requested by the customer.

Financial institutions are also required to update their websites and digital platforms to comply with international accessibility standards.

The General Traffic Department has launched intensive field campaigns across various governorates to address traffic violations in front of hospitals, targeting vehicles that breach parking regulations.

The campaigns focused on prohibited and random parking violations that obstruct traffic flow, hinder emergency vehicles from reaching hospitals, and inconvenience visitors by blocking entrances, exits, and designated passageways — actions that clearly violate traffic laws.

As a result, several citations were issued, and a number of vehicles were impounded in accordance with Article 207 of the Executive Regulations of the Traffic Law, which allows for the seizure of vehicles causing traffic obstruction for up to two months.

The General Traffic Department affirmed that these campaigns will continue daily and intensively across all governorates as part of a comprehensive plan to enhance traffic discipline and ensure smooth traffic flow around hospitals. It also urged drivers to comply with parking regulations and use only designated spaces to safeguard public safety and convenience.

The Ministry of Interior reiterated its firm commitment to enforcing the law without exception, ensuring the safety of all road users, and promoting greater traffic awareness among all members of society.

The Embassy of India in Kuwait City has issued an important notice for Indian passport applicants. The announcement, made under the direction of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, was shared through official and media platforms including DD News, ANI News, Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), and Diaspora India Connect.

 Recently, Kuwait’s expatriate community has been rocked by sudden and unexpected family visit visa rejections for parents over the age of 60, prompting frustration and anxiety among families hoping to reunite with aging parents. The shift appears to have taken many by surprise, as dozens of long-planned applications have been rejected without explanation, leaving sponsors and their parents in limbo.

One expatriate, Kavita, shared her distress after reading an earlier response in the Arab Times about visa delays for the over-60 age group. She wrote: “Many of us had already applied online, informed our parents, and were eagerly preparing to welcome them to Kuwait. However, we are now facing unexpected online rejections, particularly for parents aged over 60 or 70 years of age”. She added that this sudden turn has brought “great disappointment and sadness” to families who had been looking forward to a long-awaited visit.

Another Arab Times reader, Mashariq, voiced similar concerns: “My friend’s parents’ visit visa was rejected purely because they are above 60 years. Is there a new rule now for parents above 60?

Adding to the uncertainty, Munis claimed: “It’s true that the government has ‘closed’ visit visas for 60+ age. I visited the ministry twice in the past two days regarding my parents’ visa and was told the policy is now closed for that age group. 

These accounts point to a troubling perception: that the doors may have quietly shut for senior parents seeking to visit their children residing in Kuwait.

What the Official Policy Says and the Recent Reforms

To date, MOI has not publicly declared an age limit for parents applying for a family or visit visa in Kuwait. According to visa guidelines published by the Kuwait government, relatives wishing to pay a visit (including parents) may apply for a visit visa (family visit visa), subject to standard documentation and eligibility criteria.

That said, policy changes in recent months have included sweeping reforms to Kuwait’s family-visit visa scheme:

In August 2025, Kuwait abolished the minimum salary requirement for expatriates applying for family visit visas, removing a long-standing financial barrier.

The new rules also expanded the range of relatives eligible for family visas to include up to fourth-degree blood relatives and third-degree relations by marriage.

Restrictions on travel routes were also relaxed: visitors no longer need to travel via Kuwaiti national carriers, and land, sea, or other airlines may now be used

Despite these liberalizations, other conditions remain in place: a valid passport, proof of relationship (birth or marriage certificates), sponsor's civil ID, and often a salary certificate from the sponsor are still required. The visit visa is typically valid for 30 days, and extensions or conversions to residence are generally not permitted. ® Travel guide Kuwait

On the question of age, visa analysts and immigration commentators suggest that age alone is not part of the official eligibility criteria. There is no mention in the publicly available rules about rejecting parents solely because they are 60+

Yet the experiences from the ground tell a different story: a wave of digital rejections and refusals for older parents suggest that there may be unofficial practices or internal screening guidelines being applied - perhaps driven by health, security, or administrative risk assessments.

Most expatriates working in Kuwait fall into the 40-60 age band, meaning their parents are naturally in the 60+ range. Those children (many of them middle-aged professionals) often plan to host their elderly parents for short stays, to reconnect, provide family care, or offer medical support.

When visa rejections happen without explanation, it causes emotional distress, financial loss (for plane tickets, preparations, etc.), and even confusion about what rules truly apply. Many sponsors believe they abide by all published rules and yet see their applications denied.

Critically, the lack of clarity also allows speculation and anxiety to spread. Is there a secret "age ceiling"? Are consulates or digital systems applying new filters not been published to the public?

Without transparency, families are left guessing.

For now, expatriate families remain in limbo. But as these concerns grow louder, there is hope that the Ministry of Interior or Kuwait's immigration authorities will respond, perhaps clarifying or adjusting rules to avoid alienating a large and emotionally invested expat community in Kuwait.

The Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) announced that its Board of Directors has approved an update to the Bank Customer Protection Guide during its meeting on Monday.

The CBK Governor stated that the amendments align with the Bank’s efforts to strengthen transparency and protect customer rights, in line with international best practices and recent regulatory and technical developments.

The goal is to create a banking environment that ensures fair treatment and enhances the efficiency of customer protection in dealings with local banks.

In line with the CBK’s focus on financial inclusion, the updated guide also addresses the provision of banking services for people with special needs, ensuring equal access to financial products and services for all segments of society.

The revised guide combines previous instructions issued on July 5, 2015, creating a single, comprehensive framework for customer protection.

Among the key updates introduced:

Enhanced Transparency — Banks must provide customers with a clear document outlining essential product or service details — including fees, obligations, and conditions — before signing any contract.

Clear Contract Procedures — New guidelines govern how banks prepare, amend, and notify customers about changes in contracts.

Disclosure Requirements — Banks must inform customers about deposit interest rates, due dates, and any changes that occur.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) — Banks are required to disclose the APR, showing the full cost of credit including interest and fees.

Financial Tools — Banks must provide online calculators for loans and credit cards to help customers calculate installments, interest rates, and fees based on their inputs.

Data Privacy — Stronger measures have been added to protect customer confidentiality and regulate information sharing with third parties.

Financial Inclusion Enhancements:

• Clear mechanisms for handling accounts for minors, including notifying guardians and promoting financial awareness.
• Privacy guarantees for customers with special needs, allowing them to conduct transactions without witnesses unless requested, and ensuring that bank websites and apps meet international accessibility standards.
• Guidance on providing appropriate services for low-income customers and domestic workers.

Advertising Rules — Banks must clearly state the terms and conditions of “free” offers to prevent misleading promotions.

Complaint Handling — The response period for customer complaints has been reduced from 15 to 5 working days, and banks must establish performance indicators to track complaint handling and customer satisfaction, reporting results quarterly to management.

Banks are required to implement the guide immediately, with full compliance expected by April 2026.

The updated Bank Customer Protection Guide is available on the Central Bank of Kuwait’s official website.

The CBK concluded by reaffirming its commitment to enhancing the performance of Kuwait’s banking sector, ensuring fair and transparent treatment of all customers, and advancing financial inclusion in accordance with international standards.

The Ministry of Health announced on Sunday the success of the world’s first remote robotic surgery in the field of gynecological oncology, describing it as “an unprecedented medical achievement that adds to the nation’s record of successes in health innovation.”

In an official statement, the Ministry confirmed that the groundbreaking procedure was carried out through a comprehensive national collaboration between Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital and Al-Jahra Hospital, representing the first series of robotic surgeries conducted entirely by Kuwaiti medical teams using local infrastructure.

According to the statement, the Gynecological Oncology Unit at Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital, led by Dr. Wafaa Al-Duwaisan and Dr. Dalal Al-Shamaa, performed three intricate surgeries on Kuwaiti patients suffering from uterine cancer. The procedures utilized remote robotic surgical ligation technology, which the Ministry described as “a qualitative leap in modern surgical practice.”

The Ministry highlighted that this success demonstrates an advanced model of national integration in smart medicine, marking the beginning of a new era in localizing advanced medical technology within Kuwait. It further strengthens the country’s position as a regional and global leader in digital medicine and smart surgery.

The achievement also lays the foundation for training a new generation of Kuwaiti surgeons in robotic surgical techniques and enhancing cooperation across hospitals and specialties. It aligns with the Ministry’s strategic vision to develop an integrated, technology-driven healthcare system that meets future medical challenges and places patient care at its core.

The medical team extended its appreciation to Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadi, Undersecretary Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, and the Ministry’s leadership for their continuous support.

They emphasized that this milestone represents a transformative step toward building a smart, people-centered healthcare ecosystem, where science and innovation drive progress and patient safety remains paramount.

Decree No. 195 of 2025 has been issued to establish regulations governing the ownership of real estate by companies, funds, and investment portfolios, in implementation of Decree Law No. 74 of 1979 concerning the ownership of real estate by non-Kuwaitis, while taking into account the provisions of the same law.

According to Article 1 of the decree, published in the Official Gazette (Kuwait Alyawm), companies with non-Kuwaiti partners listed on licensed Kuwaiti stock exchanges, along with real estate funds and investment portfolios licensed by Kuwaiti authorities, are permitted to own real estate under specific conditions.

The decree clarifies that the purposes of such companies, funds, and portfolios must include engaging in real estate activities. However, it explicitly prohibits dealing in any form—whether through ownership, transfer, or investment—with real estate, plots, or lands designated for private residential purposes, regardless of their location or the project they belong to.

Article 2 of the decree stipulates that its provisions do not affect the rights of entities supervised by the Central Bank of Kuwait or other authorized bodies to own real estate in accordance with the law.

It also reaffirms that citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries shall continue to be treated as Kuwaiti citizens regarding the ownership of land and constructed properties within the State of Kuwait, in line with existing legal provisions.

The Al-Ajari Scientific Center confirmed that Kuwait’s natural rainy season, known as Wasm, will begin on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

The center explained that the Wasm season spans 52 days, divided into four distinct phases — Al-Awa, Al-Sammak, Al-Ghafra, and Al-Zabana — each lasting 13 days.

Among the main signs of the season, the center noted, is the sun’s continued southward tilt, which causes a decline in the sun’s angle and reduces heat, reports Al-Rai daily.

This shift marks the start of milder weather, with cooler days and refreshing nights.

At the beginning of Wasm, the “Howling” sub-season also commences, lasting 13 days and bringing noticeable changes in nature and climate, including active bird migration.

During Al-Awa, the days shorten, night hours lengthen, and sunrise and sunset times shift later, signaling the transition to cooler months.

The center highlighted that Wasm rains are particularly significant, as they usher in a fruitful spring and are often associated with the growth of truffles in desert areas.