Drug Inspection Department of the Ministry of Health closed a famous medical center in Salmiya, which included an unlicensed nursery in the basement of the center, in violation of the license. The Ministry of Health announced that inspectors from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, with the participation of employees from the Health Licensing Department, Immigration Affairs Investigations, and the Public Authority for Manpower, closed the center.

The Ministry of Health explained that a number of secret unlicensed warehouses to store medicines and cosmetics for the purpose of selling to the public were discovered. All these medical items were seized, due to the failure to meet storage and general hygiene conditions, in addition to the center not obtaining the Ministry of Health’s approval to possess the medicines.

Violation reports were also issued against a number of employees practicing the medical profession and technical assistant professions without the necessary license to do in the State of Kuwait. In this regard, the Director of the Ministry of Health’s Drug Inspection Department Dr. Reem Al- Essa stressed the need to adhere to the laws regulating the practice of the pharmacy profession. She said the department continues to monitor the distribution of medicines and health materials, and ensure that efficient, quality medicines, which are stored in a manner that meets the necessary requirements, reach patients and consumers.

Dr. Al-Essa affirmed the keenness to implement the provisions of control over the practice of the pharmacy profession and the circulation of medicines in the private sector in the State of Kuwait, and to activate law No. 28/1996, amended by law No. 30/2016 regarding regulating the practice of the pharmacy profession and the circulation of medicines, and the ministerial decisions regulating it.

Najat Al-Yousef, Acting Deputy Director General for National Employment Development at the Public Authority for Manpower, has disclosed an ongoing project aimed at revising and modernizing the proportions of national labor within the private sector. In a statement, she outlined that the Authority is meticulously assessing proposals and insights presented by various stakeholders concerning labor market regulation, including suggested rates, fees, and Kuwaitization of job roles. Upon completing the evaluation and deliberation process, the Authority compiles the proposal and forwards it to the relevant minister for subsequent submission to the Council of Ministers for approval.

Al-Yousef emphasized that the Kuwaitization program is applicable across the board, encompassing cooperatives, corporations, banks, and major institutions. The Authority, through its National Labor Development sector, plays an active role in this initiative. The Career Guidance Department, staffed by specialized professionals, conducts one-on-one interviews with job seekers interested in positions within the private, cooperative, or oil sectors.

Furthermore, they organize guidance activities to aid individuals seeking employment in the private sector. In a separate development, sources have disclosed a recent meeting convened at the Civil Service Commission, involving various government agencies, including the labor sector. During the meeting, there was a collective call for prioritizing the appointment of male and female citizens within the private sector, while ensuring they receive all necessary assurances and support. Inquiries were also made regarding the labor support budget, its total cost, and the number of beneficiaries, with preparations underway for potential increases in this allocation.

Citizens were encouraged to consider employment opportunities within the private sector. On Monday, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Talal Khaled Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to executing essential plans and procedures aimed at achieving the objectives of demographic modification and labor market development within the State of Kuwait.

Following a meeting of the National Committee for Demographic Adjustment and Labor Market Development, Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled stressed the imperative to make progress in realizing the goals outlined in the executive regulations of the Demographics Law. These regulations are designed to serve the best interests of Kuwait and its citizens.

Furthermore, he emphasized the need for expeditious implementation of all projects that contribute to the creation of employment opportunities for Kuwaiti youth. This statement was issued by the Security Relations and Media Department. Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled expressed his appreciation for the dedication and efforts of the National Committee members who are actively addressing demographic imbalances and labor market challenges within the State of Kuwait. He expressed hope for their success in fulfilling their responsibilities.

During their meeting, the Committee deliberated upon the current state of the population structure, the challenges it confronts, and strategies for labor market development to enhance job prospects for the youth. They also discussed methods to strike a balance among various sectors and ensure the sustainability of their efforts. The Committee conducted a thorough review of the latest economic and social developments, assessing their impact on demographic composition and labor market requirements. They also explored mechanisms for enhancing vocational education and training to ensure that educational outcomes align with the evolving demands of the labor market. It is worth noting that the Council of Ministers had previously endorsed the formation of this committee on May 8th. The committee, chaired by the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, also included representatives from several government agencies.

The Public Services Committee in the Council of Ministers is convening today (Sunday) to review the report presented by Municipal Minister Fahd Al-Shula on the current situation in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area, reports Al-Qabas daily. A reliable source has informed us that the committee will thoroughly analyze vital aspects concerning the enhancement of the northwestern section of the region. This analysis includes addressing challenges, evaluating property ownership and status, scrutinizing traffic and security conditions, and exploring various potential solutions.

The discussed options encompass imposing restrictions on leasing residential units to singles or the so-called bachelors, allowing the development of worker housing within industrial plots and agricultural areas, and granting permits for labor accommodations within major projects. The source highlighted that six specific locations have been designated for labor cities, collectively covering an area of 13,335,000 square meters. Additionally, eight sites have been earmarked for worker housing complexes, spanning a total area of 18,600,000 square meters.

Furthermore, the committee will carefully evaluate the recommendations outlined in the Minister of Municipality’s report. Depending on the evaluation of the current state of the area, appropriate actions will be determined. He added that the committee will review the recommendations included in the report of the Minister of Municipality, and if the current status of the area is maintained, the matter will require finding solutions to address the imbalance in the demographic structure; improving the security and traffic situation and putting an end to existing violations; developing the main and internal road network and modernizing and developing the infrastructure network (electricity, water, and sewage); taking advantage of plots 19 and 20 to provide residential care, which was previously acquired, and no specific use has been decided for them to date and improving and developing the health system

He stated that in the case of radical development of the area to keep pace with the surrounding uses, the following is needed to be done:

— The necessity of expropriation in accordance with the provisions of Article 6 of Decree Law No. 86/131, regarding the expropriation of real estate for which expropriation formulas have been issued. The Council of Ministers may issue expropriation formulas in the event of extreme necessity for considerations required by the public interest, and this shall be based on the request of the concerned authority and the presentation of the Minister of Municipality.

— Handing over workers’ cities and residential complexes to workers in accordance with the decisions of the Municipal Council issued regarding them, and beginning their implementation in parallel with the expropriation and evacuation plan for the area.

— Reorganizing the region in a civilized manner that is consistent with its distinctive location, finding solutions to create the necessary balance for the demographic structure, ending the phenomenon of existing Arab houses and the problem of commons spread within them, and organizing the network of external and internal roads in the region in accordance with developments in the surrounding areas.

— Raising the level of services in the region by providing the necessary public facilities and services according to the proposed new uses. It is noteworthy that Minister Al-Shula explained, in his report, that the value of the acquisition of plots in the region, according to estimates for the year 2023, amounts to about 1.432 billion dinars. At its meeting, the Ministerial Services Committee will consider the request of the Public Authority for Housing Welfare to overcome the obstacles facing the S2 Investment Opportunity Project in Sabah Al-Ahmad Residential City.

The Minister of Justice and Minister of Housing, Faleh Al-Ruqabah, had sent a letter to the Council of Ministers, regarding the delay in issuing building permits for the S2 Investment Opportunity Project in Sabah Al-Ahmad Residential City, referring to the partnership contract concluded on September 8, 2020 between the Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW) and one of the companies for the management and development of lands and real estate, regarding the building design, financing, operating, maintaining and transferring the investment opportunity that serves the residents of the Sabah Al-Ahmad Residential City in particular, and the areas surrounding the city in general.

Al- Ruqabah said that these projects are developmental, reduce the financial burden on the state, and translate the vision and plan of the State of Kuwait into the contribution of private sector activity to the implementation of development projects. Accordingly, the delay in issuing building permits negatively affects the indicators of the State of Kuwait. The committee will review the letter from the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, regarding its approval of the concerned party’s donation project to build a mosque in a public park in the Al-Masayel area, Block 1, at its own expense, if the neighbors agree.

Two important draft regulations that will improve Kuwait's demographics have been approved by the Demographics Amendment Committee. Kuwaitization of government contracts and electronic lease contracts are the goals of these regulations. They both have the potential to enhance the management of data and the tracking of the country's population.

In addition, the committee has evaluated an initiative to create a national platform for labor market data. An examination of the legality of the electronic labor contract project has been assigned to the Public Authority for Manpower in coordination with the Fatwa and Legislation Department. In addition, the committee is developing a plan to reduce the proportion of foreign workers in government contracts with the Ministry of Finance and the General Secretariat.

During a meeting led by Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, who heads the Committee to Adjust the Demographics and Labor Market Development, these decisions were made. Meeting objectives included monitoring the committee's progress and discussing demographic issues.

He thanked the committee members for their tireless efforts in addressing Kuwait's demographic and labor market imbalances. Specifically, he stressed the importance of aligning with the objectives outlined in the executive regulations of the Demographics Law, which benefit Kuwait and its people. Kuwaiti youth must be provided with employment opportunities as soon as possible, according to him.

Among the topics discussed at the meeting was an assessment of the current population structure and its challenges. It also explored strategies for enhancing the labor market and expanding employment prospects for young individuals. Furthermore, discussions focused on achieving equilibrium across different sectors and ensuring sustainability.

A review of recent economic and social developments as well as their potential impact on demographic composition and labor market requirements was also included in the meeting. Lastly, there was a focus on strengthening vocational education and training to ensure that educational outcomes align with the evolving needs of the labor market.

Kuwaitization of government contracts and promotion of Kuwaiti employment
A draft regulation aimed at Kuwaitizing government contracts has been approved by the committee. This initiative is designed to incentivize young people to seek employment in the private sector and enhance job security for workers engaged in government contracts. Additionally, it is expected to boost national employment and create new job opportunities within government contracts.

In order to swiftly implement this draft regulation, the committee has given the "Workforce" the responsibility of completing the necessary procedures to present it to the Council of Ministers.

Kuwaiti citizens will be offered employment opportunities within government contracts as a result of this regulation. It also places an obligation on contractors to offer national workers enticing employment benefits, which may include health insurance, annual travel allowances, and a structured salary scale.

Review of the National Data Platform
A comprehensive review of the proposed initiative aimed at establishing a national labor market data platform was conducted by the committee. This platform is set to serve as a critical foundation for organizing academic sector outputs and aligning them with the evolving requirements of the labor market.

This initiative aims to provide real-time data on the labor market and population movements. Additionally, it will create a solid foundation for the development of mechanisms and legislation aimed at enhancing and organizing the labor market. A pivotal role is expected for this forward-looking initiative in improving labor market insights and facilitating informed decisions.

Electronic Lease Contracts and Streamlining Rental Agreements approved
An electronic lease contract project has been approved by the committee, marking a significant step towards improving data quality and organization. This project aims to catalog the residences of individuals within the State of Kuwait, while also exerting control over the rental process across commercial, investment, and residential real estate, ensuring the compliance of both parties involved in the contract.
An important benefit of this project is the precise documentation of lease contract durations, which will be associated with licenses. This linkage serves to guarantee that property owners adhere to the state’s laws and regulations.
Furthermore, the project will present contract data in a secure electronic format that is resistant to tampering. The responsibility of launching this project within six months lies with the Public Authority for Civil Information. Kuwait's electronic lease contract project aims to improve efficiency and transparency in the rental process.

Expatriates being laid off increased the number of vacant apartments in Kuwait, which led to a drop in property sales. Kuwait Times reports that around 50,000 rental investment apartments were unoccupied by the end of the first half of this year.

According to the report, residential property sales declined significantly, reaching KD 363 million, the lowest level since the second quarter of 2020. This is primarily due to a reduction in the number of property transactions. The expatriate population continues to face challenges that limit their spending and even force some to leave. The restrictions on granting visit visas to expatriates have also contributed to an increase in vacant apartments, the daily reported.

There was an unprecedented decline in expatriate population growth rates during the first half of this year. Over the past five years, the growth rate has fallen from 5 percent to approximately 1.8%.

Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Cancer Awareness Campaign, has disclosed that the annual rates of cancer incidence in Kuwait and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations are on the rise, with an increase ranging from 1% to 5%. This increase can be attributed to various factors, including heightened community awareness regarding the significance of early cancer detection and the region’s high population density.

In a special statement to Al- Seyassah marking the launch of the annual breast cancer awareness campaign, themed “Your Health is Your Capital,” Dr. Al- Saleh reported that Kuwait recorded 640 new cases of breast cancer. Among these cases, 41% were Kuwaiti citizens, while 59% were expatriates. Furthermore, Dr. Al-Saleh highlighted the introduction of new initiatives this year, notably in the Mubaraki

ya area. Over a three-day period later this month, these initiatives will involve participation from a delegation representing GCC countries. Their objective is to raise awareness about the critical importance of early breast cancer screening. Dr. Al-Saleh encouraged women above the age of forty to get in touch with the campaign to receive guidance on conducting early self-examinations for breast cancer detection.

A Kuwaiti oversight team reviewing documents for the teacher's licensing initiative has completed the preliminary draft of the teacher's license, which consists of two distinct tracks - administrative and technical.

On Sept 30, this draft will be presented to Dr. Adel Al-Manea, Minister of Education and Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. It will be decided after this when the implementation will take place as well as how the application process will be handled within schools.

A source within the education industry told Al-Rai that the license will be applicable to educational staff members, school principals, assistant principals, and technical mentors. However, the application will vary based on the administrative and technical tracks.

Al-Manea will play a crucial role in determining if the license will apply exclusively to new teachers or to all educators.

Dr. Fawzi Al-Dokhi, Assistant Dean of Admission and Registration at the General Authority for Applied Education and Training and Professor of Curricula and Teaching Methods, was at the helm of the review team on April 9.

This team includes seven notable figures from the educational domain, whose roles are defined as establishing the mechanism for implementing the teacher's license and developing the field application strategy. Additionally, they must outline the project's administrative, legislative, and technical prerequisites.

In October 8th and 9th, Kuwait's skies are expected to witness a meteor shower between sunset and midnight, according to the Al-Ajiri Scientific Center. The center also revealed that the Sayadiyat meteor shower will be visible in Kuwait's skies on October 21st and 22nd.

The October moon will appear on the 14th of the month in further astronomical events. Furthermore, on the 23rd of October, the planet Venus will be observed at its greatest distance from the sun.

Skywatchers can look forward to the Hunter's Moon, which will illuminate the night sky on the 28th of October as we near the end of October.

This October, the world will also witness two significant celestial events. On the 4th and 14th, an annular solar eclipse will occur, although it will not be visible from Kuwait. On the 29th, a lunar eclipse is scheduled, but it is not visible from Kuwait.

The Indian Railways is preparing to introduce a novel cleanliness initiative called the ‘14-Minute Miracle’ in its Vande Bharat trains. Under this scheme, which will be launched by Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday, the Vande Bharat trains will be swiftly cleaned and made ready for the next trip in just 14 minutes. Currently, the cleaning of the trains takes about 45 minutes.

“This innovative initiative will now be implemented across all Vande Bharat trains at 29 railway stations including in Delhi, Chennai, Puri and Shirdi,” announced the railway minister, who will kickstart the scheme at the Delhi Cantonment railway station. 

Vaishnaw added that the ‘14-Minute Miracle’ will be carried out daily on all operational Vande Bharat trains across various routes. “The ‘14-Minute Miracle’ will continue (after the launch on Sunday). After a few months, we plan to extend this initiative to other express trains as well,” he said. 

“Railway employees across the country will implement this initiative, ensuring that onboard cleaning is completed swiftly without causing any inconvenience to passengers, regardless of where the Vande Bharat train is stationed,” said a senior railway officer.

Similar cleanliness initiatives are in place in other countries. The Japanese railways employ a similar ‘7-Minute Miracle’, said a senior railway official. The Japanese railway staff clean their bullet trains in 7 minutes, including collecting trash, wiping each of the 1,700 individual tables, opening the curtains, rotating the seats 180 degrees to make them face the front of the train, and numerous other tasks.

Parliament’s Committee for Interior and Defence Affairs will hold a meeting on Sunday to discuss the bill on amending the law related to foreigners’ residency in Kuwait.

The bill, which consists of 37 articles split into seven chapters, allows Kuwaiti women to grant their non-Kuwaiti husbands and children permanent residency but under one condition, which is that she must not have obtained Kuwaiti citizenship as per article 8, i.e., acquiring citizenship because of getting married to a Kuwaiti citizen. Former non-Kuwaiti wives or widows of Kuwaiti men are allowed to obtain permanent residency as long as they have children from that marriage.

According to the bill, hotels and furnished rental apartments must inform the relevant department at the Ministry of Interior about the names of their foreign clients and the dates of their check-in and check-out.

The fees for residency renewal and entry visa will be determined by a ministerial decision to be issued by the minister of Interior.

The bill imposes penalties of maximum three-year imprisonment and/or a fine ranging from KD 5,000 to KD 10,000 against individuals who are accused of human trafficking by bringing in expatriate workers after receiving money from them.

The Public Prosecution is authorised as the relevant authority to identify the crime in a lawsuit as human trafficking.

As per the bill, foreigners are allowed to stay in Kuwait for a maximum of three months after the expiry of their temporary residency, in case they are unable to renew or transfer residency.

Expatriates can obtain a maximum of five-year residency. The children of Kuwaiti women and the owners of real estate in Kuwait can obtain a maximum residency of ten years. Foreign investors can obtain a maximum of 15-year residency. The Council of Ministers will define the businesses included in this condition, and the required amount of investment.

Expatriate workers of a public sector institution cannot be granted a license to work in another public sector institution without the approval of the first institution.

Domestic workers are allowed to stay in Kuwait for the term period of their contract unless their residency is cancelled after leaving the work. In such a case, they are to be granted a grace period, as defined by the relevant department at the Ministry of Interior, to leave unless they obtain a new residency from another sponsor.

Transfer of domestic labor residency will not be allowed without the approval of the employer. Domestic workers can stay outside Kuwait for a maximum of four continuous months unless they obtain a permit from the relevant department at the Ministry of Interior prior to the end of the four months.

The bill authorised the Minister of Interior to deport expatriate workers, even if they hold a valid residency, in case the minister deems deportation necessary to preserve public interest or based on moral and security reasons, or if they are not working to survive.

The decision to deport may include the expatriate’s family members whom he sponsors. Deported expatriates can be subject to one-month arrest but will be able to renew residency before leaving Kuwait.

The Minister of Interior is authorised to exempt deported expatriates from paying the fines resulting from previous violations. Presidents of other countries, their family members, the members of diplomatic delegations and their family members, and holders of special passports of political nature are exempted from this law. The Minister of Interior is authorised to exempt specific individuals from this law for courtesy/ complimentary reasons.

The report on the bill is expected to be completed before the end of parliamentary vacation in order to be scheduled during the upcoming sessions.

By Saeed Mahmoud Saleh
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staffno

On Sunday, the parliamentary Interior and Defense Committee will discuss the “Residency of Foreigners” project which had been submitted to the National Assembly ample times before. It is believed the proposal will soon be finalized in terms of its articles with the purpose of referring it to the Parliament for inclusion on the session’s next agenda, reports Al-Rai daily.

The draft comprises 37 articles and 7 chapters various aspects such as entry and deportation of foreigners, combating visa trafficking, and associated penalties. This is in addition to granting Kuwaiti women married to foreigners the right to sponsor their husbands and children, provided they haven’t obtained citizenship as per Article 8. The project also outlines penalties for violations.

The project also mandates that hotels and furnished residences must report to the judicial authorities when they rent to foreigners their accommodations. It also stipulates that fees related to residence, renewals, and various entry visas will be determined by ministerial decisions.

The draft strongly prohibits the trafficking of residencies, including exploitation, recruitment, or facilitation of recruitment of foreigners in exchange for monetary gains or benefits. Violations of this law incur criminal penalties, including imprisonment for a maximum of three years and a fine ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 dinars. The draft designates the Public Prosecution for exclusive jurisdiction in exempting individuals from residency trafficking penalties.

The government had earlier submitted a memorandum containing amendments aimed at aligning perspectives with the committee members. The amendments were in response to objections raised by MPs regarding certain articles in the project.

Foreigners on Visit Visa

Notably, managers of hotels and furnished residences intending to rent must inform the Ministry of Interior authority within 48 hours when foreigners stay in or depart their facilities. Employees, as designated by the Minister of Interior, have the right to inspect records and report violations. The amendments also grant residence permits to Kuwaiti citizens for their foreign husbands and children. Widows or divorced Kuwaiti individuals with children from a foreign spouse can also obtain residence permits.

Additionally, the amendments allow temporary residence for foreigners in Kuwait, not exceeding three months. They must leave the country upon its expiration unless they obtain a renewal for up to one year. Longer-term regular residence permits (up to five years) can be granted to foreigners, and children of Kuwaiti women and property owners may receive residency for up to ten years. Investors may be granted residency for up to 15 years based on specific investment criteria set by the Council of Ministers.

The law enforces regulations on foreigner residency. For instance, a government employee cannot hold a residence permit with another entity without approval from their current employing entity. Similarly, non-governmental entity employees need approval from the competent authority for a residence permit.

Domestic Workers
Amendments concerning domestic workers are also outlined in the memorandum. Domestic workers and those in similar roles may receive regular residence permits in line with Article 13 of the law, based on their recruitment contract duration. If their residency is canceled upon leaving work, they must exit Kuwait within the stipulated period unless granted a new residency permit beforehand. Transferring their residency requires the worker’s employer’s approval. The domestic worker may not stay outside Kuwait for more than four months without prior permission from the Ministry of Interior.

Cases of Deportation
The law grants the Minister of Interior the authority to deport a foreigner, even with a valid residence permit, if deportation is deemed necessary for public interest, security, morals, or if the individual lacks a legitimate source of income. The deportation decision may extend to the foreigner’s family members dependent on them. Detention of a foreigner subject to deportation may not exceed thirty days, with the possibility of renewal if required to implement the deportation decision. The Minister of Interior may waive fines for deported foreigners upon their departure from Kuwait.

Exemptions from the Law
Certain categories are excluded from the law’s provisions, including heads of state and their families, officials and staff of diplomatic missions along with their families (subject to reciprocity), holders of diplomatic, special, and political passports (subject to reciprocity), and individuals whom the Minister of the Interior deems appropriate to exclude due to courtesy-related considerations.

On Sunday, the Parliamentary Committee on Interior and Defense is set to discuss the “Expats’ Residency” project, which has been presented multiple times. It is expected that the articles of this proposal will be concluded in readiness for its submission to the National Assembly during the upcoming session’s commencement.

The draft project includes 37 articles and 7 chapters and contains articles specifying the mechanism for the entry and deportation of expats, notifying the competent authorities, and trafficking in residency and penalties.

Furthermore, a Kuwaiti woman who is married to a foreign national is granted the privilege of sponsoring her spouse and children, under the condition that she has not acquired citizenship as per Article 8. Additionally, a Kuwaiti citizen is eligible to obtain a residence permit for her foreign husband and children. It’s imperative that a Kuwaiti woman hasn’t gained citizenship through marriage to a fellow Kuwaiti. Moreover, a widow or a divorced Kuwaiti citizen who has children with a foreign national is also eligible to secure a residence permit, reports Al Rai Daily.

The amendments stipulate that managers of hotels and furnished residences designated for rental to expats must promptly notify the relevant authority within the Ministry of Interior about the arrivals and departures of these expatriates within a 48-hour timeframe. This provision obliges hotels and furnished apartments to report on expatriates renting their accommodations and subject them to oversight by judicial authorities.

Meanwhile, the fees associated with residency, its extension, and all categories of visit visas will be determined through a ministerial decision. Furthermore, individuals appointed by the Minister of Interior will be empowered to examine records, identify any violations observed during inspections, and compile necessary reports concerning these matters.

The new amendments to the law include punishment for human trafficking by exploiting, recruiting, or facilitating the recruitment of an expat in exchange for finance or a benefit. The law imposes criminal penalties and additional penalties of imprisonment for a period not exceeding 3 years and a fine of not less than 5,000 and not more than 10,000 dinars for those who violate the law.

Earlier, the government submitted a memorandum that included amendments to bring its viewpoints closer to the members of the committee after representatives expressed their objections to some of the project’s articles.

Furthermore, foreign nationals may be granted temporary residence in Kuwait for a duration not surpassing three months. It is mandatory for them to depart the country upon the expiration of this temporary residence unless they secure an extension from the Ministry of the Interior, which cannot exceed one year.

Expatriates are eligible to stamp regular residence permits for a maximum of five years. Moreover, individuals falling under the category of the children of Kuwaiti women and property owners in the State of Kuwait may obtain residency for a period not exceeding ten years.

Additionally, investors can be granted residency for up to 15 years, subject to a decision by the Council of Ministers that outlines the specifics of their investments, including their scope, categories, and the invested amounts.

The legislation incorporates regulations regarding the residency of foreign nationals, specifying that an employee in a government organization cannot obtain a residency permit from another entity without the endorsement of the organization where they are currently employed. Similarly, an employee in a non-governmental entity can only secure a residency permit with the consent of the relevant competent authority.

The memorandum included changes pertaining to domestic workers, allowing them and similar categories to obtain a standard residency permit in accordance with the guidelines outlined in Article 13 of this law. This permission is granted within the confines of the duration specified in their employment contract. In the event that a worker’s residency status is terminated upon leaving their job, they are required to depart Kuwait within the timeframe set by the competent authority within the Ministry of Interior, unless they are granted a new residency permit prior to the expiration of this period

In every scenario, the transfer of residency for domestic workers or those of similar status is subject to approval from both the worker and the employer. Moreover, domestic workers are not permitted to remain outside of Kuwait for a period exceeding four months unless they obtain prior permission from the Ministry of Interior before this period expires.

The law bestows upon the Minister of Interior the authority to deport an expatriate, even if they possess a valid residency permit, in cases where the Ministry deems it necessary for the public interest, public security, or public morals, particularly if the expatriate lacks a legitimate source of income. Such deportation may also encompass the foreign family members whom the expatriate is responsible for supporting. When a deportation decision is issued for an expatriate, they can be detained for a maximum period of thirty days, with the possibility of renewal or execution of the deportation order. Furthermore, the Minister of Interior holds the discretion to exempt deported expatriates from any fines stemming from violations of this law, provided they depart from Kuwait.

Excluded from the provisions of this law, as outlined in the draft, are heads of state and their family members, officials and employees of diplomatic missions along with their families, holders of diplomatic, special, and political passports, as well as individuals deemed deserving of exemption by the Minister of the Interior based on considerations related to diplomatic courtesies.

Saudi Arabia has approved the establishment of a rail link between the kingdom and Kuwait.

In a meeting chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman on Tuesday, the kingdom's Council of Ministers approved a related pact with Kuwait.

Kuwait approved the deal in June, stating that it would provide safe and efficient rail transportation between the two countries.

Earlier in June, both sides reached a pact to study the feasibility of a joint rail link based on financial, economic, and technical factors.

Kuwait said the project will not affect another rail project to connect the six nations of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia and Kuwait will be linked by a high-speed bullet train service between Riyadh and Kuwait City.

An estimated six months will be needed to conduct consulting studies for the project before it is implemented, according to a July report.

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia maintain close ties. In 2018, the two countries set up a coordination council aimed at boosting cooperation between them.

Relations between the two countries have been boosted by visits by senior officials.

The Kuwaiti Crown Prince Meshal Al Ahmad Al Sabah visited Saudi Arabia in June 2021, his first overseas trip since taking office months earlier. During the visit, the Kuwaiti leader met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Before Saudi Arabia hosted the GCC summit in 2022, Prince Mohammad visited Kuwait as part of a Gulf tour that also included Oman, the UAE, Qatar and Bahrain.

The General Traffic Department is awaiting the approval of a law that will increase penalties for traffic violations, so that violators will be deterred and life will stop in an era when the streets are witnessing horrific traffic accidents caused by recklessness, not adhering to traffic rules, using a mobile phone, and speeding.

To deter violators, traffic leaders recommend amending the current traffic law and increasing the penalties and fines. Years ago, they saw a reduction in the number of violations related to parking in disabled spaces after the penalties were increased. The number of violations had decreased from 60,000 to 400 per year. The current traffic law must be amended so that everyone adheres to the traffic rules and laws, and the number of traffic violations decreases.

General Traffic Department leaders urged members of the National Assembly to amend the law and make it a priority of the next session to increase penalties for traffic laws, which is the responsibility of the Interior and Defense Committee.

There are, however, a number of parliamentarians who believe that raising the value of traffic violations may increase the cost of living for citizens.

According to Brigadier General Khaled Al-Adwani of the General Traffic Department, "We are the only ones in the world who haven't changed the traffic laws. Other Gulf countries have amended their laws more than once to deter violators, indicating that harsher penalties are effective deterrents.

People who follow traffic laws and wear seat belts are now dying due to reckless acts committed by others. It is important to preserve the lives by increasing the penalties since amending the current traffic laws is the only way to solve all of our traffic problems.

When the value of some traffic violations is KD 5, how can it serve as a deterrent? It was affirmed by those who disagree with this value that the current law does not save lives.

By referring parking violations for the disabled to the General Administration of Investigation and registering them as misdemeanors, the number of violations decreased from 60,000 annually to 400 or 600. Consequently, harsher penalties contribute to adherence to traffic rules and laws, which can protect road users and save lives.

The number of indirect violations reached seven million violations.”

In order to raise a generation that respects the law, Brigadier General Khaled Al-Adwani stressed the importance of traffic culture being included in kindergartens.

Additionally, the General Traffic Department announced previously that 160 people have died as a result of accidents during the first half of the year, and that the number of traffic accidents has increased by 42,659 compared to the same period last year, when there were 38,860 traffic accidents.

Additionally, the General Traffic Department is conducting continuous traffic campaigns throughout the week to arrest reckless motorists, seize their vehicles, and refer them to court, under the guidance of Assistant Undersecretary for Public Security, Traffic and Operations Affairs Major General Abdullah Al-Rajaib and the Director General of the General Traffic Department Major General Yousef Al-Khadda.

According to the Ministry of Interior's Cybercrime Department, Kuwaitis and expats are advised to avoid advertisements that promote the sale of tickets for concerts and entertainment venues. Aljarida daily reports on social media.

There is a possibility that these advertisements may link to fake websites that facilitate fraud, according to the ministry.

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) yesterday officially approved the issuance of electronic sick leave. The decision was issued by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, Minister of State for National Assembly Affairs, and Acting Chairman of the Civil Service Council Issa Al-Kandari.

The decision stipulates that, “Sick leaves of no more than seven days at a time and no more than sixty uninterrupted days per year granted by government primary health care centers to which the employee belongs according to what is stated in their civil card or the government center assigned to a specific employer or granted through electronic means approved by the Ministry of Health without the employee visiting the aforementioned health centers, shall be issued within the following limits:-

1. Sick leave with full pay for the first fifteen days
2. Sick leave with half salary for the next fifteen days
3. Sick leave with a quarter of salary for the next fifteen days.
4. Sick leave without pay for the last fifteen days.

The decision also stipulates that the duration of sick leave granted without the employee visiting health centers and through electronic means approved by the Ministry of Health shall not exceed three days per month. Granting this leave by this means shall not result in an increase or modification in the maximum duration of the leave or type of determined salary for each period in accordance with what is stated in this clause.

The decision allowed the approved medical report to be replaced by means of electronic communication between the Ministry of Health, the Civil Service Commission and government agencies, provided that the decision is implemented from the date of its issuance and is published in the official gazette.

The Ministry of Health has begun employing artificial intelligence techniques in various realms namely for diagnosis and treatment and has started training cadres on the emerging technology.
The ministry is also using AI techniques at hospitals for various tasks including clinical care, researches, production of medicines and overhauling administrative operations.
The AI has proven useful in diverse medical fields, particularly radioactive diagnosis, surgeries and scientific research, affirmed Dr. Suleiman Al-Mazidi, the chief surgeon at Jaber Hospital in an interview with KUNA.
He has confirmed that the AI decreases medical errors, facilitates operations and shortens surgeries’ duration, adding that the latest technology has been used at Jaber Hospital for surgeries, endoscopic operations, indocyanine green enhanced fluorescence (ICG) apparatuses in addition to the employment of aiding robots.
Jaber Hospital had witnessed a surgery with the Olympus device for the first time in the Gulf, he said, indicating that surgeons in these procedures are aided with 3D devices that screen patients’ internal organs.
Moreover, the hospital had also conducted the first endoscopic operation with the AI technology for pin pointing tumors in the colon and the stomach — for the first time in Kuwait. He explained that the technology uncovers tumors that cannot be detected with the naked eye.
He declared that a division for training staff on the AI at the hospital would be inaugurated in October.
The hospital, he has added, already has a special ward, called “the virtual division,” where doctors are trained on state of art techniques.  

Yousef Al- Shamlan, a prominent fencing champion, has proudly secured Kuwait’s inaugural medal at the 19th Asian Games, held in a Chinese city and scheduled to continue until October 8th.

Al-Shamlan clinched the coveted “bronze” medal in the sabre competition, having successfully reached the semi-finals. Regrettably, he faced defeat at the hands of his South Korean adversary, with a score of 10-15, thereby missing out on the opportunity to compete for the gold in the final. Al-Shamlan’s triumphant journey began with an impressive performance in the preliminary qualifiers, propelling him to the round of 32, where he outscored his Uzbekistani opponent, Matov, with a 15-10 victory.

In the round of 16, he continued his winning streak by defeating his teammate, Mohammed AbdulKarim, with a score of 15-11. The quarterfinals posed a formidable challenge against a player from Kazakhstan, but Al-Shamlan emerged victorious with a score of 15-10, ultimately securing his well-deserved bronze medal.

On a separate note, Hamad Al-Awadhi, the Secretary-General of the Kuwait Fencing Federation, expressed profound joy at Kuwait’s historic achievement of its inaugural medal at the 19th Asian Games, all thanks to the remarkable fencing skills of Yousef Al-Shamlan. Al-Awadhi dedicated this momentous accomplishment to His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, as well as to the President of the Kuwaiti Olympic Committee, Sheikh Fahd Nasser Al-Sabah, and the Director-General of the Public Authority for Sports, Yousef Al-Bidan.

He emphasized that this Asian triumph marks a historic milestone for the Kuwait Fencing Federation, underscoring the sport’s development in Kuwait, attributable to the unwavering dedication of the technical and administrative staff, led by the President of the Fencing Federation, AbdulKarim Al-Shamlan. Notably, this accomplishment signifies the first-ever medal secured by the Kuwaiti fencing team in the annals of the Asian Games and Kuwait’s initial medal at the 19th Asian Games.

The Kuwaiti national handball team achieved a momentous victory, defeating the Thai team with an impressive score of 49-19 in their inaugural match at the Asian Games. This resounding triumph earned the team their first two points in the group stage, alongside Thailand and China. Consequently, the Kuwaiti handball team has solidified its presence in the second round, where the top two teams from each group will progress to the semifinals. The Minister of Commerce and Industry and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Mohamed Al-Ayoub, and the Director-General of the Public Authority for Sports, Yousef Al-Bidan, joined in celebrating the national handball team’s jubilation following their remarkable victory against Thailand.

On a different note, Qaid Al-Adwani, the Secretary-General of the Kuwait Handball Federation, commended the team’s performance in their inaugural match and acknowledged the intensified challenges awaiting them in subsequent stages. He also highlighted the inclusion of promising young talents within the team, diligently preparing for the forthcoming Asian Championship, which serves as a qualifier for the World Cup in Bahrain.

He extended his gratitude to the Kuwaiti Olympic Committee, under the leadership of Sheikh Fahd Al-Nasser, and the head of the delegation, Fatima Hayat, for their unwavering support, meticulous oversight, and provision of comfort for the Kuwaiti delegation in China. He extended his best wishes for success to all and expressed hopes for Kuwait to return with an extensive medal tally.

Abdulrahman Al-Fadhil, a member of our national rowing team, concluded his participation in the tournament, securing sixth place in the men’s singles event and establishing a new Kuwaiti record. In a separate discipline, athlete Fatima Al-Fuqan achieved fourth place in the consolation rounds of the women’s singles event. Notably, she became the first Kuwaiti female athlete to advance to the semifinals in the Asian Games, securing a place among the top 10 players in the overall Asian rankings (Top 10) and setting new personal Kuwaiti records. Additionally, our national taekwondo athlete Ali Al-Murshad concluded his participation in the competition after facing a 0-2 defeat against a member of the Chinese team in the preliminary rounds of the under 58 kg category.

The participation of our national shooting team in the 10m air rifle event has concluded, with Ali Al-Mutairi finishing in 41st place, Abdullah Al-Harbi in 48th place, and Saud Al-Subei in 51st place. Today, our national shooting team’s champions and heroines are set to make their debut in the Asian Games. The team consists of Abdullah Al-Rashidi, Mansour Al-Rashidi, and Abdulaziz Al-Saad, who will compete in the skeet competition. There are high expectations for the Kuwaiti shooting sports to secure medals during this stage.

Meanwhile,India set the first world record of the Asian Games in the 10-meter team rifle event. The new mark is 1,893.7 points. The old mark was set last month by a Chinese team. The record gave India its first gold medal at this year’s Asian Games. The Indian team members were Rudrankksh Patil, Divyansh Panwar and Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar. North Korea, appearing in its first international multi-sport event since the 2018 Asian Games, took bronze on Sunday in judo. Chae Kwanglin won the medal in the 60-kilogram class. The Asian Games involves about 12,400 competitors from 45 nations and territories with 481 gold medals on the line.

China won 11 of the 14 gold medals in rowing, a sport it has dominated in the Asian Games since it was introduced in 1982. The two days of rowing wrapped up on Monday. The first gold medal in the Asian Games was awarded on Sunday in rowing. China won that one. The race to the top the medal table is no race at all. Through the first 50 gold medals awarded, China has won 32.

It also has won 50 medals overall, far ahead Japan and South Korea, the main competition. China won almost 300 medals in Indonesia at the 2018 Asian Games and seems certain to surpass that total at home. The Asian Games offer a preview of what could soon be coming to the Olympics. That’s surely the case with cricket, which seems headed to the Olympic program as soon as the 2028 Los Angeles Games or the 2032 Brisbane Games.

India’s women won the gold medal on Monday at the Asian Games, defeating Sri Lanka in the 20-overs format. India scored 116-7 to beat Sri Lanka by 19 runs. The Sri Lankans scored 97-8. “On this kind of wicket, we thought even if we scored something near the 120-run mark, we could defend it because we have a strong bowling unit,” India cricketer Minnu Mani said.

In the bronze medal game, Bangladesh scored 65-5 to defeat Pakistan, which scored 64-9. Bangladesh won by five wickets with 10 balls remaining. “Our players had to hold on to their nerves and make it possible,” Bangladesh coach Hashan Tillakaratne said. The men’s cricket final at the Asian Games is Oct. 7, which could generate a massive television audience if archrivals India and Pakistan face off. That final, however, could be overshadowed by the start of the Cricket World Cup in India, which runs Oct. 5-Nov. 19.

The International Olympic Committee earlier this month delayed a decision about adding cricket and several other sports to the Los Angeles Games. The IOC has given no clear timetable about when a decision about cricket will be made. Cricket appeared in the Olympics for the only time in 1900 at the Paris Games. Cricket’s return would be a big source of television revenue for the IOC, which generates more than half of its billions in income from selling television rights.

Abdul Rahman Al-Mutairi, the Minister of Information and Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, outlined the comprehensive process behind the development of the media regulation law during a discussion session titled “The Media Regulation Law… Everyone’s Responsibility.” This session brought together media professionals, newspaper editors-in-chief, and individuals involved in various media sectors.

Al-Mutairi detailed the law’s three-stage evolution, which began with the collection of opinions, experiences, and challenges in its initial draft. These were subsequently addressed with relevant state authorities, leading to the law’s second stage focusing on implementation to cater to the media sector’s needs. The session marked the third stage in this law’s evolution. He emphasized that this discussion session was in line with the directives emphasizing that the media apparatus belongs to the public, highlighting the collaborative nature of media strategy between specialists and the public. Al-Mutairi stressed that the media field’s key actors are those actively involved in media activities.

The Minister highlighted that Kuwait currently has three laws in effect, and the media regulation law aims to streamline and improve media regulation while upholding freedom of expression. He welcomed feedback on the draft law, which consists of 9 chapters and 104 articles, inviting comments on the ministry’s website for a two-week period.

Regarding prohibitions and penalties, Al-Mutairi noted a key amendment. While the current laws impose imprisonment on editors-in-chief and writers, the proposed change shifts the punishment to the violator, with a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a fine of no less than 10,000 dinars.

The license would be suspended, but there would be no cancellation. He also detailed changes to prohibitions related to criticism of HH the Amir of the country and incitement to overthrow the ruling system. These would result in a prison term of no more than one year and a fine ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 dinars for the violator, rather than the editor-in-chief. Furthermore, the law addresses incitement to outrage public modesty or commit acts of debauchery and harm to people’s dignity, beliefs, or reputation, with fines of no less than 3,000 dinars directly imposed on the violator. Prohibitions that harm Kuwait’s relations with friendly countries would also result in fines.

By Fares Al-Abdan  / Arab Times Staff

The reality on the ground indicates a genuine waste accumulation predicament within residential areas, according to Al-Rai daily, despite the presence of cleaning companies marked by yellow cars, bulldozers, and workers' uniforms everywhere on the streets.

The few scattered small containers, incapable of containing the daily surge of waste, resulting in spillover and posing an environmental pollution risk, cannot be overlooked when checking the cleanliness of streets.

Kuwait's squalor and contamination, as well as the presence of stray cats, dogs, and mice, and the increasing insect population, make these containers a danger.

Al-Rai conducted thorough inspections of supposedly pristine residential areas, only to discover widespread neglect plaguing most containers in all locations.

Aside from this, Al-Rai initiated investigations involving a variety of stakeholder groups and concerned individuals. According to the study, Kuwait faces a substantial increase in waste volume, estimated at 6 thousand tons daily, along with an increase in average waste generation per capita, reaching 1.5 kilograms daily.

Globally, this is one of the highest rates. This mounting waste evidently calls for an increase in the number, size, and strategic placement of garbage containers in residential areas.

In order to achieve this, the municipality must strengthen its supervisory role over cleaning companies, hold violators accountable, and develop novel mechanisms to curtail environmental pollution in residential and investment areas.

In the opinion of stakeholders, it is imperative that subterranean placement proposals be implemented.