The Ministry of Interior has issued a warning, urging residents and expatriates to refrain from using names and birthdates as secret codes in electronic accounts due to the risk of these accounts being targeted by specialized hacking groups involved in theft, burglary, and email breaches, reports Al-Seyassah daily.

The Ministry outlined five key tips for creating a robust password for enhanced security. These include ensuring passwords contain a combination of letters, symbols, and numbers, with a minimum length of 10 characters. It also advises against using easily guessable information such as birthdates, names, personal numbers, and phone numbers. Additionally, the Ministry recommends not using the same password for all electronic accounts, periodically changing passwords, and avoiding sequential or repetitive combinations. Sharing electronic accounts and passwords is strongly discouraged, and it is advised to keep them away from public visibility.

As the nation gears up to celebrate its upcoming 63rd anniversary of Independence Day and the 33rd Liberation Day, the Public Relations Department of the Kuwait Municipality has initiated decoration works across the city, marking the beginning of the municipality’s preparations for the national celebrations scheduled on February 25 and 26.

A specialized field team has been diligently installing state flags across various prominent locations in Kuwait as part of the ongoing preparations for the national celebrations. The installation process, which began earlier this week and will continue until next week, includes significant landmarks such as Bayan Palace, the airport, Riyadh roads, multiple bridges, main roundabouts, iconic squares like Safat Square and Mubarakiya markets, as well as the main buildings in all six governorates of the country.

The government has referred decree number 5/2024 on the State budget for fiscal 2024/2025 to the National Assembly. The decree includes 41 reports on the budgets of ministries, public institutions, independent budget institutions and subsidiaries.

According to the decree, the total State budget is KD18,662,209,000 and the estimated expenditure is KD24,555,000,000; so the deficit is estimated at KD5,892,791,000. Meanwhile, Chairman of the parliamentary Financial and Economic Affairs Committee MP Shuaib Al- Muwaizri disclosed that the reports of the committee on the bills about the cost of living allowance increment and zero interest loans have been included in the agenda of the session scheduled for Feb 6, 2024. He affirmed these bills will be discussed and voted on to bring glad tidings to the people of Kuwait. He disclosed that the bill on increasing the cost of living allowance to KD250 per month covers the public sector employees, nationals working in the private sector and receiving the national labor subsidy, retirees, and those with medium and severe disabilities. He said the other bill is on amending Article 112 of the Public Institution for Social Security Law No. 61/1976 to increase the maximum amount of zero interest loan to 15 times of the beneficiary’s salary.

He affirmed these two bills are part of the legislative agenda approved by 48 MPs, urging his colleagues to bear their responsibility towards the citizens. On the other hand, MP Osama Al- Shaheen forwarded queries to Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and acting Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Yusuf Al-Sabah about the family visa regulations. He wants to know the new rules in this regard, if there is a quota for every expatriate community, and developments in the enforcement of Law No. 74/2020 on addressing the demographic imbalance issue since the Council of Ministers assigned the Interior Minister to implement the law.

MP Hamdan Al-Azmi asked Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Oil Emad Al-Atiqi if the recommendations of the parliamentary fact-finding committee formed in the previous legislative year about the violations in the recruitment and promotion of employees at Kuwait National Petroleum Corporation (KNPC) have been implemented, if the percentage of nationals working in contracting companies was modified given the recommendations that nationals should constitute at least 40 percent of the total administrative workforce and 50 percent of the total number of technical staff, percentage of national workers in the last five years, and strategy to Kuwaitize jobs in contracting companies. He added the committee also recommended filling up vacancies in KNPC and the executive regulations must be amended such that positions are not left vacant for more than three months. He inquired about the current number of vacancies at KNPC and its subsidiaries, if any position has been vacant for years, and reasons behind the delay in filling up vacancies. He also requested for the list of the chairpersons and members of the boards of directors of KNPC’s subsidiaries including their qualifications, age, term and date of appointment. He asked about the number of vacant board chairperson and member posts in the subsidiaries, number of expatriates working at KNPC and its subsidiaries, number of terminated expatriate workers since the implementation of the policy on replacing expatriates with nationals, number of national workers appointed at KNPC and its subsidiaries since the enforcement of the policy, current number of nationals working at KNPC and its subsidiaries compared to the expatriates.

 In adherence to the directives issued by the Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior, Lieutenant General Sheikh Salem Al-Nawaf, emphasizing the need to intensify security and traffic efforts nationwide, authorities recently conducted comprehensive campaigns to apprehend violators and maintain law and order.

The objective was to sternly address any threat to the country’s security and uphold traffic regulations. The operations, overseen by Major General Abdullah Al-Rajaib, Assistant Undersecretary of Public Security, Major General Yousef Al-Khuda, Director of the General Traffic Department, and Brigadier General Fares Al-Qahtani, Director of the General Department of Rescue, were executed in various regions, reports Al-Rai daily. Conducted over six hours, beginning at eleven o’clock in the evening and concluding at dawn, the campaigns focused on key areas such as Jaber Al-Ahmad, Saad Al-Abdullah, Kairouan, and the Second Ring Road.

The deployment of patrols and establishment of security checkpoints were key components of the strategy, aimed at ensuring continuous security presence and preventing any potential disruptions to the safety of citizens and residents. During the operations, 30 individuals were apprehended for violating residency laws, while over 20 others faced charges related to drug possession, abuse, and imprisonment sentences. A total of 600 traffic violations were issued to reckless drivers and judicially wanted vehicles were seized.

Additionally, six vehicles failing to meet security conditions were subjected to a block. The campaigns involved the strategic distribution of security personnel across various regions, with Public Security patrols covering Jahra Governorate and joint efforts from the General Department of Rescue and the General Traffic Department in the capital and Jahra. The “Rasid” device played a crucial role in the identification of wanted individuals and violators, expediting the process and allowing authorities to issue violations promptly through the Sahl application. Security sources emphasized that these campaigns aim to safeguard citizens and residents, acting as a deterrent to anyone contemplating actions that may destabilize security or violate the law. The initiatives align with the directives of the senior leadership within the Ministry of Interior, with a commitment to maintaining daily operations to ensure the country’s overall security.

A flag-hoisting ceremony will be held at Bayan Palace on Wednesday under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, launching nationwide celebrations to mark the country’s national festivals. This year’s celebration of the 63rd anniversary of the National Day and the 33rd anniversary of the Liberation Day ushers in a fresh era and honorable march under the leadership of His Highness the Amir, who has recently taken the helm in succession of the late Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to lead the country to new horizons of development and progress.

The Kuwaiti people cherish this dear national flag-hoisting occasion, reminiscing the great accomplishments made in all fields and domains and reiterating loyalty and belonging to the dear homeland. The official flag of Kuwait had seen several changes before its current shape was decided according to an Amiri Decree issued on September 7, 1961, hoisting it on the buildings of all state bodies and agencies for the first time on November 24, 1961, in grand countrywide celebrations.

While marking this great event, it is essential to recall the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah’s address after swearing the constitutional oath before parliament on December 20, 2023, urging people to live up to due responsibilities and maintain national unity. All the six governorates of the country are set to hold flag-hoisting celebrations in a joyous atmosphere to commence the country’s national festivals by adorning streets and buildings with the photos of His Highness the Amir and the flag of Kuwait in an amazing scene that mirrors the delight and pride for both great occasions.

The Kuwaiti people, with a great sense of boastfulness, are bracing for marking the 63rd anniversary of the National Day, a day when the State of Kuwait became independent and steadily started to make hallmarks on international domains, forge close relations with Arab and friendly countries, and seek to achieve security and peace, based on its pioneering policy of tackling regional and international causes. While celebrating the 33rd anniversary of Liberation Day, Kuwait remembers its martyrs who had given a resounding example of sacrifice and dedication for the sake of liberating their country from the aggressor invaders. This occasion, with its various aspects, reflects an eagerness to beef up and cement bonds of national unity and togetherness, and to learn noble lessons and meanings, reminiscing the struggle of forefathers, who had sacrificed everything just to see their nation develop and prosper.

Exploring the MOI Kuwait App: A Convenient Gateway to Governmental Services

The MOI Kuwait app, a digital initiative by Kuwait's Ministry of Interior, offers a seamless experience for accessing governmental services. It's a significant stride in digitizing and streamlining processes for citizens and residents.

Download the App:

• iOS Users: Get it on the Apple App Store here.
• Android Users: Available on the Google Play Store here.

Key Features:

• Manage Personal and Dependent Information: Easily access civil ID and passport details.
• Update Passport and Modify Names: Conveniently change passport expiry dates and Latin names.
• Driving License and Vehicle License Information: Available in the Digital Wallet.
• Check Application Status: Track visa applications, health tests, name change requests, and passport updates.
• Quick Pay Feature: Pay for traffic violations, immigration fines, and more.
• Stay Updated on Dues: The 'Dues' tab alerts you to any pending payments.

Security and User Experience: Prioritizing data security and privacy, the MOI Kuwait app ensures a safe and user-friendly digital environment.

Conclusion: The MOI Kuwait app exemplifies digital transformation in government services, enhancing efficiency and accessibility for users.

Fahd Al-Yousef, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Acting Minister of Interior, has issued a significant decision modifying specific provisions of Ministerial Resolution 957 from 2019 within the executive regulations of the Expats' Residence Law. These revisions delineate the criteria for obtaining regular residency for the purpose of reuniting with family members. 

The focal amendments in Article 29 include:

1. Monthly salary requirement for a dependent/family visa (for newcomers) set at a minimum of KD 800.

2. The sponsor must be a university graduate, and their profession should align with their qualification.

3. Exemptions from university degrees for certain professions listed in Article 30 of the decision.

Furthermore, individuals born in Kuwait or abroad, with an age not exceeding 5 years, and whose parents hold valid residence in Kuwait, are exempted from the salary requirement as per the guidelines and conditions set by the General Administration of Residence Affairs.

Article Two designates the acting Undersecretary as responsible for implementing this decision, which will come into effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

Professions mentioned in Article 30 of Ministerial Resolution No. 957/2019:

1. Advisors, judges, prosecutors, experts, and legal researchers in the government sector.

2. Medical professionals, including doctors and pharmacists.

3. Professors in universities, colleges, and higher institutes.

4. Educational professionals within the government sector.

5.Advisors in financial and economic matters in universities.

6.Engineers.

7. Individuals serving in religious roles in mosques.

8. Librarians in both government and private universities.

9. Health sector personnel, including nurses, paramedics, and medical technical positions.

10. Social workers and psychologists in the government sector.

11 Professionals in journalism, media, and correspondents.

12. Coaches and athletes associated with federations and sports clubs.

13. Pilots and flight attendants.

14. Individuals responsible for preparing the deceased and overseeing their burial.

In line with Kuwaits’ labor regulations, the primary sponsor for his spouse and children is the father. To qualify as a sponsor for his child and wife, the father’s salary cap should be min. 800 Kuwaiti dinars, he needs to be a university graduate and his job should align with the qualifications.

Those born in Kuwait, and those born outside the country to parents who are working in Kuwait and whose age does not exceed five years old are excluded from the new rule of salary requirement, this decision is taken on humanitarian grounds.

Mothers can sponsor their children on dependent / family visas provided their salary cap is KD 800 per month mentioned on the work permit only if the husband is deceased or divorced or if the husband has left the country for good leaving his wife and kids behind. Those working in the below profession are excluded from the university degree requirement.

The professions stipulated in Article 30 of Ministerial Resolution No. 957/2019 are:

- Advisors, judges, prosecutors, experts, and legal researchers in the government sector

- Doctors and pharmacists

- Professors in universities, colleges, and higher institutes

- School principals, deputies, educational mentors, teachers, social workers, and laboratory technicians in the government sector

- University financial and economic advisors

- Engineers

- Imams, preachers, muezzins in mosques, and memorizers of the Holy Qur’an

- Librarians in government agencies and private universities

- Ministry of Health employees, including nurses, paramedics those holding medical technical positions in various specializations, and those working in the field of social service

- Social workers and psychologists in the government sector

- Journalists, media professionals and correspondents

- Coaches and players in the federation and sports clubs

- Pilots and flight attendants

- Preparers of the dead and those responsible for burying them.

There are two constraints associated with the dependent visa. A wife working in the private sector cannot sponsor her husband. Furthermore, once a son reaches the age of 21, he becomes ineligible to remain under his parents’ visa.

The General Administration of Residence Affairs at the Ministry of Interior initiated the acceptance of applications for family visas, adhering to the guidelines outlined by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior, and Acting Minister of Defense, Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef. The Residency Affairs departments in the six governorates processed 1,800 transactions on the first day of implementing the decision. Among these, 1,165 transactions did not meet the stipulated conditions, and applicants were instructed to complete the necessary procedures.

The source emphasized the decision’s clarity, permitting expats to have university degrees and earn a salary of at least 800 dinars, working in the same field as their university degree, to bring only their spouses and children under the age of 14. Notably, the decision does not allow for the sponsorship of parents and siblings, and there are no exceptions to this rule.

To comply with the decision, the university degree certificate must be certified by the Kuwait embassy in the applicant’s home country and approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Additionally, marriage contracts and birth certificates of children must be attested. The exception for the 14 specified categories is tied to the salary requirement, not the university specialization.

The decision was prompted by numerous employees from the Ministries of Health, Justice, and Education resigning due to their families not residing with them in the country. After a thorough study, the Ministry of Interior deemed this decision as one of the most beneficial for residency sector affairs. The source clarified that Residency Affairs had not opened family visit visas, family visit visas are still restricted. A separate decision will be issued to regulate the mechanism for family visits. However, commercial visits will continue to be permitted, subject to the existing conditions and controls in the Residency Affairs sector.

The Interior Ministry announced Thursday the resumption of handling expatriates’ requests for family reunions as of this Sunday at all departments of residency affairs across the country under new terms and standards. This decision was made upon the directives of Deputy Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and Acting Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al-Sabah, the Ministry’s Department of Security Relations and Media in a statement.

The requests will be accepted based on Ministerial Decree No. 56 of 2024, which sets new rules for issuing entry permits for family reunions, it noted. Among these terms are the salary of those submit requests is at least KD 800, and he/she should have a university certificate and work in a field matching his/ her specialty, it stated. Deputy Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and Acting Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Yusuf Saud Al-Sabah issued a decision amending some provisions of Ministerial Resolution No. 957/2019 in the executive regulations of the Expats Residency Law, specifying the conditions for obtaining regular residency to join a family member. Article One of the decision states that Article 29 of Ministerial Resolution No. 957/2019 is amended to be as follows: Article 29:

To obtain a regular residence permit to join a family for those coming from abroad, the monthly salary of the expats residing in the country must not be less than KD800. The monthly salary of the expat that is taken into account is the wage resulting from working in his profession based on which he was granted residency in the country. He must have university qualifications and his profession in the country is consistent with his specialization.

An expat resident, whose profession is stipulated in Article 30 of this decision, is excluded from the requirement of obtaining a university qualification. As for granting regular residency to join a family for those residing or born inside the country, and those born outside the country to parents who are residing in the country and whose age does not exceed five years old, the Director General of the Residence Affairs General Department is responsible for excluding them from the salary requirement referred to in the first paragraph of this article following the rules and regulations specified by the department.

Article Two of the decision stipulates that the acting undersecretary must implement this decision and it shall take effect on the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

The professions stipulated in Article 30 of Ministerial Resolution No. 957/2019 are:

1. Advisors, judges, prosecutors, experts, and legal researchers in the government sector

2. Doctors and pharmacists

3. Professors in universities, colleges, and higher institutes

4. School principals, deputies, educational mentors, teachers, social workers and laboratory technicians in the government sector

5. University financial and economic advisors

6. Engineers

7. Imams, preachers, muezzins in mosques, and memorizers of the Holy Qur’an

8. Librarians in government agencies and private universities

9. Ministry of Health employees, including nurses, paramedics those holding medical technical positions in various specializations, and those working in the field of social service

10. Social workers and psychologists in the government sector

11. Journalists, media professionals and correspondents

12. Coaches and players in the federation and sports clubs

13. Pilots and flight attendants

14. Preparers of the dead and those responsible for burying them.

Documents required to apply for dependent /family visa

Passport copy of your own (First page & last page) plus Civil ID copy (mobile ID also accepted) since residence is no longer stamped on the passport

Passport copy of your wife (First & Last page) Passport should have minimum 1 yr validity

Work Permit copy (Izne Amal) Ask your company to provide it. proving your salary is KD 800 per month

Graduation degree stamped and attested from MOFA from your country and attested at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kuwait ( Those mentioned in the above list don’t have to provide a graduation degree but have to provide a company letter stating their profession which has to match work permit)

Relationship Affidavit. (This document can be typed from the typing centers located all over Kuwait). Get a relationship affidavit from your embassy and get the same attested from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (To get a relationship Affidavit you need a marriage certificate stamped from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your country, if your name is mentioned in your wife’s passport then you don’t require)

Fill out the dependent visa application form from typing centers and make sure there are no mistakes

Submit your papers to the Residence Affairs office

Kuwait is the 10th largest economy in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), according to the report issued by the Middle East Economy, which included a list of the 10 largest economies in the world in terms of gross domestic product (GDP), reports Al-Anba daily. Data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) revealed that Kuwait was expected to achieve a GDP of $159.7 billion in 2023, while Turkey came in first place with $1.15 trillion. Kuwait is considered one of the richest countries in the world. It enjoys a vibrant economy that derives momentum primarily from its abundant oil resources. Its oil reserves and the tax exemption system have pushed the Kuwaiti dinar to become the most valuable currency in the world at the level of $3.25 and it is considered a clear evidence the economic stability of the country.

While progress in achieving economic diversification and structural reforms is gradual, Kuwait’s greater economic resilience is supported by the large foreign assets of the sovereign wealth fund managed by the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA). The MENA region includes some of the most important economic powers in the world, not to mention that it is home to a number of the largest and most ancient oil-producing countries, which enhances the region’s position and dominance on the global stage. Regarding the economic prospects for MENA, the report stated that despite the slowdown in economic growth in the region in 2023 due to oil production cuts, high inflation rates, and a tight financial environment; the region will see improvement in 2024.

IMF was also quoted as saying: “The future outlook for MENA carries expectations that growth will improve in 2024 with the disappearance of some factors affecting current economic activity, but growth in the medium term is expected to be below average. History is in the midst of ongoing structural challenges. Countries in the Middle East region, in particular, could recover, bringing the growth of their economies to 3.4 percent in 2024. The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales shares this view with the IMF and it forecasts that the region will grow at 3.2 percent, which is higher than their global GDP growth forecast of 2.1 percent. It is worth noting that non-energy sectors will push the region’s growth forward, especially in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Fund defined GDP as the total value at current prices of final goods and services produced within a country during a specific period, and that the most common measure for economic growth is to calculate gross domestic product by adding consumer spending, government spending, and commercial investment to the aspect of net exports that refer to the difference between exports and imports.

Recent developments from the Ministry of Interior indicate significant changes in the application process for dependent visas, effective from this Sunday. These changes, guided by Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Acting Minister of Interior, align with the newly released Ministerial Resolution No. (56 of 2024). The resolution introduces new requirements and guidelines for obtaining visas for family reunification.

Under the updated rules, individuals wishing to bring their family members to Kuwait must meet certain criteria. A notable change is the increase in the minimum salary requirement to 800 dinars, coupled with the necessity for applicants to have a university degree. Additionally, there is a new stipulation that the applicant's job should correspond with their academic qualifications. These changes aim to refine the process of granting entry visas, ensuring that applicants meet specific standards before they can reunite with their families.

The Kuwaiti Foreign Minister, Abdullah Al-Yahya, has announced that Kuwait is actively collaborating with Britain to introduce a new electronic travel permit for Kuwaiti citizens. The process is set to begin on February 1, 2024, with the permit becoming valid for travel to the United Kingdom starting from February 22. The initiative aims to streamline travel procedures, providing flexibility for Kuwaiti citizens and encouraging visits to the UK without the need for a traditional visa.

Electronic Travel Permit:

   - Kuwait is working with Britain to launch a new electronic travel permit for Kuwaiti citizens.

Implementation Date:

   - The process for the electronic travel permit is scheduled to begin on February 1, 2024.

Validity for Travel to the UK:

   - The electronic travel permit will become valid for travel to the United Kingdom starting from February 22.

Objective:

   - The objective of the electronic travel permit is to streamline travel procedures, providing flexibility for Kuwaitis and encouraging visits to the UK without the need for a visa.

Ongoing Discussions and Coordination:

   - Ongoing discussions and coordination between Kuwait and British authorities are highlighted as part of the initiative.

Steering Committee Meetings:

   - Joint steering committee meetings between Britain and Kuwait are scheduled for February 12 and 13, with high-level officials from both sides leading the discussions.

Strong Relations with Britain:

   - The Foreign Minister emphasized the strong and distinguished relations between Kuwait and Britain.

Collaborative Measures and Agreements:

   - Collaborative measures and agreements were mentioned, including those signed during the third visit of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad to Britain.

Upcoming Joint Agreements:

   - Announcements about joint agreements in various fields between Kuwait and Britain are expected soon.

Continuity of Joint Coordination:

    - The Foreign Minister affirmed the continuity of joint coordination between the two nations, emphasizing historical relations and ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation across diverse fields.

Mutual Consultation on Regional and International Issues:

    - There is a commitment to mutual consultation on regional and international issues for the benefit of both Kuwait and the United Kingdom.

This announcement signifies a significant step toward facilitating travel for Kuwaiti citizens to the United Kingdom through the introduction of an electronic travel permit. Travelers are advised to stay updated on official announcements and guidelines regarding the new electronic permit.

The proposed law amendment by Kuwait MPs Badr Nashmi, Faris Al-Otaibi, Abdul Hadi Al-Ajmi, Badr Sayyar, and Osama Al-Shaheen aims to bring about significant changes in the regulation of working hours in the private sector.

The proposed change involves replacing the existing text of Article (64) with a new one, restricting a worker’s weekly hours to forty-two or seven hours per day, except in specific cases outlined in the law. In the holy month of Ramadan, weekly working hours would be limited to thirty-six. The Minister may issue a decision to reduce working hours for strenuous or health-hazardous jobs or due to harsh conditions.

Furthermore, the proposal suggests altering Article (65), Clause (A), with the new text stating that a worker cannot be employed for more than four consecutive hours per day without a rest period of at least one hour. The rest periods do not count within the working hours, except for the banking, financial, and investment sector. The working hours in this sector would remain seven consecutive hours.

The explanatory memorandum justifies the amendment by emphasizing the importance of recognizing the human element in economic development. It argues that providing comfort and an appropriate work environment is crucial to achieving productivity and allowing workers time for their daily affairs.

The proposed changes aim to address the inadequacies of the current law, particularly its misalignment with the flexible and irregular working hours common in the private sector.

If this amendment is accepted and becomes law, it could bring about a significant shift in the regulation of working hours in the private sector, with a focus on improving the well-being of workers and promoting productivity. It's essential to monitor official updates to see if the proposal progresses through the legislative process.

The World Health Organization (WHO) warned that the world could face a pandemic 20 times more severe than the ongoing COVID-19 crisis in a message delivered at the World Economic Forum. A theoretical scenario dubbed Disease X acknowledges the possibility of a global outbreak caused by an unknown pathogen rather than a transmission of an existing disease.

The most probable cause of Disease X is a respiratory virus that originated in animals, but has not yet been transmitted to humans. According to the WHO, an unanticipated Disease X pandemic could have more devastating consequences than COVID-19, which has claimed over seven million lives worldwide.

In order to prevent future pandemics, the WHO is taking proactive measures, including bolstering disease surveillance between nations and encouraging technology sharing. While Disease X took center stage during the session, epidemiologists remain vigilant about other potential pandemics, including viruses such as Ebola, Marburg, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, Lassa fever, SARS, MERS, Nipah virus, Rift Valley Fever, Zika virus, and potential new iterations of COVID-19.

According to a report by the General Secretariat of Planning, Kuwait's economy is connected to global oil prices continuously and consistently. However, despite substantial government investments aimed at maximising non-oil revenues and empowering the private sector, these endeavors have fallen short of expectations.

As a result, we must ask: Where are the non-oil revenues, and how can the private sector play a role in diversifying the local economy?

Within Kuwait's macroeconomic framework, the private sector's performance over the past 12 years has been consistent but uninspiring. Throughout the first, second, and third development plans, the private sector’s share in the local economy fluctuated between 23% and 38%, underscoring its limited impact.

It is interesting to note that the private sector's contribution to GDP diminishes during economic recoveries, while it increases during economic downturns. Notably, the private sector failed to play a significant role in rescuing the Kuwaiti economy from deficits, as evidenced by the highest recorded contribution of 38% in 2020 coinciding with the largest economic deficit in 12 years. In the report, the economic challenges are attributed to government investment spending over the past 12 years, contrary to the view that the private sector is the engine of economic growth.

With global oil prices peaking at $100 per barrel between 2010 and 2014, Kuwait's economy experienced financial surpluses. Conversely, in 2015, with a three-year consecutive decline in oil prices to $40 per barrel, the economy entered a persistent deficit, exacerbated by the substantial impact of the “COVID- 19” pandemic in 2020. The global economic recovery and increased oil demand played a pivotal role in mitigating the crisis, with oil prices reaching $100 per barrel in 2022. Since initiating the development plan in 2010, Kuwait has invested in projects with sustainable economic returns to achieve Kuwait Vision 2035. The first development plan focused on legislative preparation, the second on infrastructure, and the ongoing third on empowering the private sector.

Plans involve strengthening the knowledge economy and transitioning towards “Smart Kuwait 2035.” Examining the first development plan, government investments ranged from 13% to 18%, leading to a trade surplus of 36% to 48%. Private spending recorded between 24% and 29%, marking a prosperous period for the local economy. In the second development plan, government investments increased to 25-30%, resulting in a trade deficit in 2016. The ongoing third development plan witnessed fluctuations in government investments, ranging from 22% to 15%, leading to a trade deficit in 2020.

In order to enhance the role of the private sector in the local economy, the report makes several recommendations:

1. Implementing development projects with sustainable economic returns.

2. Swiftly approving legislative requirements to prevent project delays.

3. Promoting a knowledge economy, creating economic zones, reshaping government roles, promoting sustainable prosperity, and empowering citizens as part of New Kuwait Vision 2035.