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

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

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

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

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

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

Expert Views: Economic and Tourism Momentum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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