The Kuwait Astronomical Society announced that the country witnessed equal day and night today, with sunrise at 5:39 a.m. and sunset at 5:39 p.m.

Society president Adel Al-Saadoun explained that the autumnal equinox brings near equality of day and night across the globe, though minor differences of several minutes occur depending on each country’s position north or south of the equator.

Meanwhile, Bader Al-Omara, a member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, forecasted strong dust-raising winds reaching up to 50 kilometers per hour until Thursday.

He noted that such conditions are characteristic of the autumn and Safri season, during which Kuwait experiences fluctuating weather patterns, including high humidity and southerly winds.

He added that humidity levels are expected to drop, with dawn temperatures tomorrow ranging between 20 and 23 degrees Celsius in inland areas, and between 24 and 28 degrees in interior and coastal regions.

The maximum temperature is forecast to reach 43 degrees Celsius, before gradually declining through October.

Kuwait Municipality will inaugurate the new Shuwaikh Beach Project on Wednesday, October 1. Developed with a 3 million dinars donation from the National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), the project stretches across 1.7 kilometers and is designed to transform the waterfront into a modern leisure destination that balances environmental, health, sports, and entertainment needs.

The development consists of four distinct zones. The first includes sports fields, recreational areas, and extensive green spaces, alongside renovated facilities such as the mosque, restrooms, and commercial kiosks. It also provides space for future kiosks, ATMs, and ITMs.

The second zone features a sandy beach complemented by wooden benches, while the third offers an enclosed garden with shaded green spaces, trees, and relaxation areas designed for tranquility. The fourth zone forms the project’s entry point and includes an interactive life-sized checkers game, expansive lawns, and multi-purpose courtyards.

The Municipality emphasized that the project reflects its commitment to enhancing public spaces and promoting healthy, active lifestyles for residents and visitors.

Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, the Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, Minister of Finance, and Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment, announced that the Ministry of Electricity and Water has achieved a significant milestone in managing electricity demand. He noted that the maximum electricity load during the summer of 2025 reached 17,610 megawatts, a decrease of 30 megawatts from the 17,640 megawatts recorded in the summer of 2024. According to grid planning studies, the maximum load for summer 2025 was expected to rise by four percent. The figures were reported by Al Jarida newspaper.

Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem highlighted in a press statement that the recent decline in electricity consumption rates represents a significant achievement for Kuwait. Despite extreme summer temperatures reaching up to 51 degrees Celsius, particularly during peak hours between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., as well as continued population and economic growth, electricity demand has been effectively managed. According to Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem, this accomplishment reflects the success of integrated strategic planning, rather than mere coincidence.

He emphasized that careful management of electrical loads, strict campaigns against excessive consumption—especially by industrial and mining operations—and the efficiency of periodic, preventive, and emergency maintenance plans for power stations and transmission and distribution networks have all contributed to this achievement.

These plans are carried out according to the highest technical and engineering standards, employing advanced monitoring and inspection technologies to ensure the sustainability and reliability of the electrical network under extreme operating conditions.

Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem also praised the cooperation between the Ministry, other state institutions, and the political leadership, as well as the role of citizens, residents, and public and private entities in supporting national awareness campaigns. He particularly highlighted the “Wafer” campaign, which has successfully fostered a culture of energy and water conservation throughout society.

Looking ahead, the minister stressed that the ministry is focused not only on addressing immediate challenges but also on preparing for the future. Plans are underway to expand electricity and water production capacities to 14,050 megawatts and 228 million imperial gallons of fresh water per day by 2031. Key projects include the Al-Zour North IPP Project Phases II and III, with a production capacity of 2,700 megawatts, implemented in cooperation with the Kuwait Authority for Partnership Projects (KAPP) and a consortium of ACWA Power and the Gulf Investment Corporation.

The Shagaya Renewable Energy Project is another strategic initiative, with the first phase producing 1,100 megawatts. Work on subsequent phases, including a 500-megawatt second phase and planned third and fourth phases totaling 3,000 megawatts in partnership with China, is already in progress. Additionally, the 1,800-megawatt Al-Khiran power plant began operations last August, and the upcoming Nuwaiseeb Power Plant project is expected to produce up to 7,200 megawatts.

Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem expressed deep pride in the ministry’s workforce, acknowledging their dedication and tireless efforts to maintain high-quality services, promptly address system malfunctions, and ensure the continued delivery of reliable electricity and water services to all customers.

Ambassador Sameeh Johar Hayat, the Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs, highlighted a significant qualitative shift in Kuwaiti-Chinese relations as the agreements and memoranda of understanding between the two countries move into the implementation phase, Al Qabas newspaper reported.

He made the remarks during the Chinese Embassy’s celebration of the 76th National Day of the People’s Republic of China, which was attended by Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy and Minister of Finance, Acting Minister of State for Economic Affairs and Investment, Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem.

Ambassador Hayat affirmed Kuwait and China’s commitment to strengthening strategic relations and deepening bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and investment fields, in a manner that serves the shared interests of both countries.

He noted that technical studies and research for the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port project are progressing steadily, including soil, water, and wave analyses at the site ahead of implementation. The signing of the implementation contract with the Chinese side is expected soon, as technical assessments are being finalized, placing the next steps in China’s hands.

Highlighting Kuwait’s pioneering role in the region, Hayat said the country was the first Gulf state to establish diplomatic relations with China and the first in the Middle East to sign a memorandum of understanding under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, reviving the historic Silk Road. He added that Kuwaiti-Chinese relations are currently experiencing their most prosperous phase, with the launch of unprecedented development projects in multiple sectors.

“Several Chinese government-owned companies, approved by the Chinese presidency, are directly collaborating with Kuwait on large-scale projects, including the completion of Mubarak Port, renewable energy initiatives like the third and fourth phases of Abdaliya and Shagaya, sewage and waste management projects, and the development of housing and workers’ cities,” he explained.

Ambassador Hayat emphasized that a ministerial committee, chaired by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah, meets weekly to oversee the implementation of agreements and memoranda between the two governments. Technical teams submit detailed reports to the committee, enabling swift decisions and efficient project execution.

He highlighted that Kuwait’s partnership with China benefits from direct government-to-government communication, bypassing bureaucratic delays through open channels and hotlines with the National Development and Reform Commission. This allows immediate responses to queries and ensures smooth coordination.

Ambassador Hayat also indicated that Kuwait is elevating relations with select countries, including China, India, and Japan, to “strategic” status, opening unique avenues for cooperation. He stressed that the opening of new embassies abroad is guided by careful studies to serve national interests and citizens, with embassies forming the backbone of citizen support overseas.

Meanwhile, Liu Xiang, Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait, reaffirmed that Kuwait was the first Gulf Arab state to establish ties with China. He noted that current relations are at their strongest, with progress in projects such as Mubarak Port, renewable energy, residential developments, the growing presence of Chinese brands in Kuwait, and the upcoming opening of the Chinese Cultural Center next month. Liu stressed that China remains a reliable partner in Kuwait’s development and will continue expanding horizons of cooperation.

H.E. Mishal Mustafa Al-Shamali, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to India, highlighted on Friday that Kuwait’s participation in the Indian World Food Congress, represented by the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition, provides a valuable platform for forming partnerships with global food markets, Al Rai newspaper reported.

Ambassador Al-Shamali noted that the conference, which will run until September 28, includes participants from 21 countries and 150 international delegates. He emphasized the strong support and sponsorship of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflecting the event’s significance for economic development and investment in the food sector, as well as India’s role as a leading global food producer and exporter.

He added, “This year’s conference will focus on the sustainability of food markets, including infrastructure for food and agricultural production, promoting innovations and ideas to maintain an ideal environment for agriculture, and advancing food production technology.”

Ambassador Al-Shamali explained that the conference provides a valuable platform for establishing strategic partnerships with global food markets, particularly the Indian market, which is considered one of the world’s most important food baskets and plays a key role in enhancing global food security through abundant production and diversified exports.

The Ministry of Education announced a series of training courses in partnership with the Teachers’ Association, aimed at teachers, department heads, technical supervisors, assistant principals, and school principals. The programs will run from September 29 to November 16, Al Rai newspaper reported.

According to the ministry, the 225 courses are designed to equip supervisory staff and applicants with the skills, knowledge, and standards needed to perform their duties effectively.

The ministry stated that the programs will be held over a period of just 24 days, allowing more than 32,000 faculty members to benefit from them, with morning and evening shifts at the training centers affiliated with the Department of Education and Training and the Kuwait Teachers Society.

The Ministry of Education also stressed that those seeking supervisory positions must adhere to the training course requirements when registering via the designated forms. Registration is available through the ministry’s official website starting today and will continue until all training course slots are filled.

The ministry emphasized that this initiative reflects its commitment to developing educational cadres and enhancing their professional capabilities, contributing to the improvement of the educational process and the achievement of Kuwait’s strategic educational development goals.

The Ministry of Information announced that it has successfully migrated its core applications and services to the Google Cloud Platform (GCP). The move marks a major step in the ministry’s digital transformation, aligning with the objectives of the “New Kuwait 2035” vision, Al Jarida newspaper reported.

The Ministry of Information said in a press release on Wednesday that, under the direction of Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi and the oversight of Undersecretary Dr. Nasser Muhaisen, it has become one of the first entities in Kuwait’s public sector to fully adopt the Google Cloud Platform.

The ministry explained that the move aims to enhance operational efficiency, improve public service delivery, and provide key benefits such as increased security, better performance, and greater scalability and flexibility. The transition also reduces the administrative burden on internal teams, allowing them to focus on strategic innovation.

The migration, carried out collaboratively between the ministry’s specialized team and Google Cloud experts, involved transferring numerous vital systems used by employees as well as citizens and residents. Key Google Cloud services now in use include Google Compute Engine for scalable computing, Cloud SQL for database management, and advanced security tools such as Cloud Firewall and Cloud Armor to protect applications and data.

The ministry affirmed its commitment to continuing its partnership with Google Cloud, aiming to leverage advanced cloud technologies to deliver more efficient, secure, and user-friendly digital services, in line with the goals of Kuwait’s “New Kuwait 2035” vision.

Smart, model public libraries are among the key aspirations of Kuwait’s development plan. Under the initiative titled “Developing Public Libraries into Smart Model Libraries and Investing in Them,” the project falls within the pillar of effective participation in the global community. According to Al Qabas newspaper, the project is in its preparatory phase with an allocated budget of KD 5 million.

Scheduled for completion in 2028, the initiative seeks to modernize and expand public libraries, positioning them as hubs within the knowledge economy and drivers of creative and cultural industries. It also aims to enhance Kuwait’s cultural infrastructure by upgrading existing facilities and adding new ones, while supporting the country’s broader strategic goals under Kuwait Vision 2035 to strengthen its global cultural and intellectual presence.

According to project data, the initiative seeks to transform public libraries into smart model libraries, comparable to leading global examples, capable of offering innovative interactive services powered by artificial intelligence. The plan also includes enriching them with traditional and digital information sources, enabling self-lending, and equipping facilities with robots to serve visitors.

The project has an investment component, using available spaces within library buildings to generate financial returns through partnerships with the private sector, thereby supporting sustainability and growth.

It aims to achieve 12 objectives, including developing and equipping 20 public libraries across six governorates, transforming them into smart model libraries and partially investing in them with private sector participation.
In addition, ten libraries will be developed and fully invested by entrepreneurs and private partners.

The project also seeks to provide 200 job opportunities in cultural fields, support the knowledge economy, and place 30 public libraries in Kuwait on the global map of libraries and cultural centers.

Key goals include equipping libraries with advanced technological infrastructure, such as computers, library management systems, artificial intelligence programs, smart screens, tablets, and self-lending stations, along with robots to assist users and provide information services.

The initiative also provides a diverse collection of modern digital resources and databases, mobile self-lending stations in malls and shopping centers, and vehicles functioning as mobile libraries to participate in community events.

Additionally, the project involves launching an electronic information platform for public libraries and the Kuwait Digital Library, while fostering new job opportunities and building partnerships with the private sector to strengthen the knowledge economy.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has honored the State of Kuwait in recognition of its progress in establishing an effective civil aviation security oversight system and raising the level of compliance with ICAO’s international standards and recommended practices.

The recognition was announced during the 42nd ICAO General Assembly, which is being held from September 23 to October 3 in Montreal, Canada, with the participation of 193 countries, 69 international and regional organizations, and major global aircraft manufacturers.

The Kuwaiti delegation is headed by the President of the Directorate-General of Civil Aviation, Sheikh Eng. Humoud Mubarak Al-Humoud Al-Sabah, who extended his congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah, the government and people of Kuwait, and all civil aviation personnel for this international achievement.

Sheikh Humoud Al-Sabah emphasized that Kuwait’s ‘award’ reflects the success of the Kuwait International Airport in achieving results that exceed international standards, as confirmed by periodic ICAO security audits.

He further stressed Kuwait’s commitment to active participation in international aviation forums and to supporting efforts that enhance the safety, security, and sustainability of global civil aviation.

The Minister of Health affirmed that the launch of the home healthcare service for children represents a qualitative leap in the development of Kuwait’s healthcare system, in line with the New Kuwait Vision 2035. He stressed that protecting citizens’ health and ensuring their well-being remain the Ministry’s foremost priorities.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Minister Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi explained that this pioneering service goes beyond traditional treatment programs, introducing a fundamental shift in healthcare philosophy by delivering services directly to children in their homes.

This allows, he said, children to remain in their familiar family environment while receiving comprehensive, high-quality medical care, reports Al-Rai daily.

The program targets children under 14 years of age, especially those with chronic and advanced illnesses, special needs, and palliative care requirements. An integrated medical team — including doctors, nurses, therapists, nutritionists, social workers, and psychologists — has been deployed to ensure holistic care that improves quality of life and eases the burden on families.

During the first half of 2025 alone, the program’s medical teams carried out more than 872 home visits, providing essential care to children in need. These efforts helped reduce prolonged hospital stays, cut down waiting lists, and improve health indicators for the beneficiaries.

Dr. Al-Awadhi emphasized that the initiative not only enhances patient care but also alleviates pressure on hospitals, creating a practical model for integrating primary and community healthcare. He praised the dedication of medical, nursing, and administrative staff for making the initiative a success and highlighted the unwavering support of Kuwait’s leadership, which recognizes health as the foundation of a productive and prosperous society.

The Ministry’s official spokesperson, Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad, said the new service is part of Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare quality for citizens and residents. It also aligns with the National Development Plan’s vision of ensuring “health and well-being for all.”

He explained that the service will deliver preventive, diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitative care directly to children’s homes, sparing them the stress of repeated hospital visits. The target groups include children with chronic conditions such as heart and metabolic diseases, certain cancers, disabilities, and those in need of advanced or palliative care.

The multidisciplinary teams will consist of pediatricians, nurses, pharmacists, and specialized technicians capable of operating vital medical equipment such as respirators and heart machines. Eligible cases will be referred by hospitals, after which parents will be contacted and visits scheduled. All records will be documented securely within the Ministry’s systems.

Saud Al-Mutairi, representing the Islamic Heritage Revival Society, praised the initiative as part of a joint cooperation protocol with the Ministry of Health. He emphasized that this reflects a sustainable partnership aimed at supporting healthcare projects with strong humanitarian and social dimensions.

The Ministry of Interior has introduced the state-of-the-art security patrol designed to enhance response speed, improve procedural accuracy, and boost overall security efficiency.

Developed and deployed by specialized national personnel, it integrates modern technologies, including a smart mobile camera connected to facial recognition systems and vehicle license plate detection.

The camera captures images and processes them using artificial intelligence, cross-referencing them with the Ministry’s database to enable rapid identification of wanted individuals and vehicles for field operations.

The system has been introduced upon directives of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, and with the oversight of Acting Undersecretary Major General Ali Mesfer Al-Adwani and Brigadier General Anwar Ahmed Al-Yatama, Head of the Human Resources and Information Technology Sector.

Key features of the patrol include:

• Portable fingerprint identification for instant verification of individuals.
• Vehicle detection capabilities for monitoring and identifying required vehicles.
• Direct connectivity to the Ministry of Interior’s databases, ensuring swift access to critical security information.
• Comprehensive security monitoring systems to support personnel in executing their duties effectively.
• Enhanced support for apprehending violators, ensuring speed and precision in field operations.

The Ministry of Interior emphasized its commitment to modernizing the security infrastructure by adopting the latest technologies. The initiative strengthens the country’s overall security framework, enabling law enforcement to respond efficiently and maintain stability across Kuwait.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has updated the process for issuing commercial licenses, making it mandatory to register the beneficial owner at the company’s establishment stage.

This move strengthens transparency by requiring the owner’s data to be recorded before the launch of any new company.

The Ministry clarified that government employees can establish companies but cannot assume management roles, except for applied education faculty members who are limited to consultancy activities.

It also emphasized that employees may not establish freelance business companies.

The Ministry’s new guide distinguishes between one-person companies, where the owner holds 100% of the shares, and limited liability companies, which allow multiple partners. It also explained that freelance businesses differ by requiring only a PO Box, a deed, and an email address rather than a physical office.

The Ministry confirmed that foreigners may establish Kuwaiti companies with a maximum of 49% ownership, while Kuwaitis hold 51 per cent.

Gulf citizens, however, are permitted to establish companies individually. Exceptions to minimum capital requirements also remain in place for sectors such as banking, domestic labor, and insurance.

According to a press release on Sunday, the campaigns involved patrols from the General Traffic Department, civilian patrols from the Security Control Department, and monitoring using drones, reports Al-Jarida daily.

The Ministry emphasized its ongoing efforts to enhance traffic safety and urged citizens and residents to comply with traffic laws and cooperate with security personnel to protect everyone on the roads.

The State of Kuwait is accelerating efforts to strengthen its legal and regulatory framework to combat money laundering, aiming to enhance the efficiency of government agencies and elevate the national response in line with international standards, Al Jarida newspaper reported.

These legislative and oversight measures reflect Kuwait’s determination to become a regional hub in anti-money laundering efforts, bolstering its international standing and supporting a comprehensive national strategy to address financial crimes.

According to a KUNA report, Kuwait’s legislative system recently saw a significant development with the issuance of Decree-Law No. 76 of 2025, which amends provisions of Law No. 106 of 2013 on Combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing. The decree establishes a robust legal framework enabling the Council of Ministers to issue the necessary decisions to implement Kuwait’s international obligations in this area.

The law includes provisions to delist, freeze funds and other assets, and prohibit dealings with specified natural or legal persons. To enhance the effectiveness of Cabinet decisions, it stipulates that such measures take effect immediately upon issuance, avoiding any delay that could undermine their purpose or limit their impact. Violations carry criminal penalties, with fines ranging from KD 10,000 to KD 500,000 per offense.

The legislation provides a comprehensive framework for implementing Security Council resolutions while balancing international obligations with constitutional safeguards. It guarantees individuals the right to file complaints, review relevant information, and request permission to cover necessary expenses.

This step reflects the efforts of the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism, tasked by the Council of Ministers to strengthen cooperation among relevant government agencies and ensure compliance with international standards, thereby protecting Kuwait’s reputation and global standing.

The committee includes the Financial Investigation Unit, Central Bank of Kuwait, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Capital Markets Authority, Public Prosecution, Ministries of Justice, Finance, Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Social Affairs, General Administration of Customs, Public Authority for Combating Corruption (Nazaha), and the Insurance Regulatory Unit.

In July, four government agencies signed two memoranda of understanding to enhance coordination in combating money laundering. The MoU between General Administration of Customs and Ministry of Interior focuses on joint cooperation and information exchange in line with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards.

The Capital Markets Authority and Financial Intelligence Unit MoU establishes frameworks for cooperation, detailing the scope, exchange mechanism, and strict confidentiality standards for information sharing between the entities. These agreements aim to strengthen regulatory measures, improve data exchange efficiency, and support Kuwait’s national system for combating financial crimes.

The memorandum outlined key aspects of cooperation, including holding periodic meetings to strengthen joint coordination, activate preventive and deterrent controls, exchange information and expertise, prepare training and qualification programs for personnel, and facilitate mutual attendance at training courses on combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

As part of its on-site monitoring, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry prepared the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Guide for the Gold, Precious Metals, and Gemstones Traders Sector 2025.

The guide aims to help professionals in this sector understand and fulfill their obligations under AML/CFT laws by providing guidance on identifying and assessing money laundering and terrorist financing risks and implementing the necessary internal policies, procedures, and controls. It highlights payment and transaction risks, such as unconventional or large cash usage, third-party advance payment recovery, and transactions through unrelated or high-risk sectors like real estate, automotive, construction, or tourism, alongside key business risk assessment points.

The Central Bank of Kuwait adopted an updated penalty methodology under Article 15 of Law No. 106 of 2013, including the publication of penalties imposed on supervised entities. It issued a circular directing banks to follow Financial Intelligence Unit guidelines and report suspicious transactions within two days. The Unit conducts technical and strategic analyses of reports from financial institutions and relevant non-financial businesses.

Kuwait also hosted a workshop to prepare a unified Gulf strategy against money laundering, reflecting its commitment to regional and international coordination. According to the October FATF report, Kuwait possesses all essential structural elements for an effective AML/CFT regime, including political and institutional stability, rule of law, accountability, and an independent judiciary.

The report confirmed Kuwait’s enhanced capacity to prosecute, impose proportionate penalties, and deter money laundering effectively. The Council of Ministers continues to monitor the implementation of FATF requirements, reviewing progress by the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering, relevant ministries, and authorities.

The General Department of Criminal Investigation in Hawalli Governorate has dismantled an international network involved in operating online gambling platforms and illegally transferring their proceeds within Kuwait, Al Rai newspaper reported.

In a statement, the Ministry of Interior said investigations began after information was gathered on the group’s activities through social media monitoring. A specialized team was formed to pursue the case, implementing a detailed field plan that led to the arrest of seven suspects — six Egyptians and one Syrian — who were directly linked to managing the illegal operations.

Investigations revealed that the network had been using several companies as fronts to conceal its operations, including general trading firms, delivery services, health salons, and clothing and perfume outlets.

Authorities found that money laundering was carried out by transferring amounts from abroad through an individual based in Turkey. Each transfer was kept at 25,000 Kuwaiti dinars or less to avoid detection, then reintroduced into Kuwait through unofficial channels and distributed in cash to participants. The total amount seized and traced through the network reached 153,837.25 Kuwaiti dinars.

The Ministry of Interior stated that coordination was undertaken with the Financial Prosecution Office. All suspects, along with the seized funds, investigation files, and details of the companies involved, were referred to the Public Prosecution for further legal action. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to combating organized crime in all forms and stressed that the law will be applied equally to all offenders.

The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) issued its first official comment regarding reports on raising the minimum monthly wage for Filipino domestic workers from $400 to $500 (about KD 150). PAM clarified that no official decision has been issued by the relevant government bodies to date, reported Al Jarida newspaper.
The authority stressed that any changes related to wages or employment contracts are only valid if announced through official and documented channels. The authority urged accuracy in reporting and warned against relying on rumors, confirming that official sources remain the sole authority for correct information.

Following a recent circular from the Department of Labor and Employment in the Philippines increasing the minimum monthly wage for Filipino domestic workers from $400 to $500 (about 150 dinars), PAM clarified that reports in some media outlets and social media about a salary increase are false.

In another development, a team of competent regulatory authorities, including representatives from the Public Authority for Manpower, the Occupational Safety Department of the Labor Inspection Department, the Residence Affairs Investigations Department, the Kuwait Fire Force at the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Kuwait Municipality, conducted a surprise inspection campaign in the Al-Dajeej area of Farwaniya Governorate. The campaign resulted in the issuance of 23 warnings for violations related to non-compliance with occupational safety requirements.

According to the authority’s sources, upcoming periods will witness intensified surprise field campaigns targeting workers’ housing across all governorates, particularly in areas with high concentrations of expatriate workers. These campaigns aim to assess compliance with occupational safety regulations, ensure business owners and private sector companies—including those involved in government contracts—adhere to required standards, and safeguard the rights and safety of expatriate workers.

The sources stressed that the Public Authority for Manpower will enforce the law strictly against violators, imposing appropriate penalties, including suspension of commercial licenses and closure of company files for failure to comply. Inspectors, empowered with judicial police authority, are permitted to enter workers’ housing to verify compliance with established standards.

Occupational safety inspectors monitor and document violations during each inspection round and issue remedial warnings. They revisit the same sites within a short period to ensure corrections have been made. Failure to cooperate or address violations will result in formal recording of the offense and the imposition of penalties on the responsible company.

The Ministry of Interior issued new guidelines for travelers carrying money, jewelry, and other valuables, reported Al Jarida newspaper.

It stressed the need to declare cash of KD 3,000 or more, or its equivalent in foreign currency, to the Financial Investigation Department at the airport through the customs form when departing or arriving.

The ministry clarified that gold in all its forms—including bullion, jewelry, and precious watches—must also be declared when leaving the country. For gold bullion, a statistical statement is issued by the Air Cargo Department near the T4 building. For jewelry, watches, and other valuables, a sighting note is provided upon departure, while a similar note is issued upon arrival when returning. Receipts must be presented during inspection.

The ministry explained that this disclosure process is a legal requirement aimed at combating money laundering and terrorist financing. It does not restrict travel but ensures transparency and compliance with financial security regulations.

The company thanked its customers in Kuwait for their support over the years, expressing appreciation for their loyalty and trust.

Carrefour announced that it has permanently suspended its operations in Kuwait, reported Al Qabas newspaper.

In a statement, the company thanked its customers in Kuwait for their support over the years, expressing appreciation for their loyalty and trust.