As part of its ambitious New Kuwait 2027 development strategy, the State of Kuwait has launched a comprehensive digital twin project aimed at enhancing smart governance, infrastructure planning, and inter-agency coordination. The initiative will create a highly accurate virtual replica of Kuwait’s physical environment, integrating data from various government agencies, notably the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI).

At the heart of this digital transformation lies the creation of ultra-high-resolution maps—boasting less than 10 cm accuracy—spanning over 2,500 square kilometers of Kuwait’s landmass. These maps will offer detailed insights into:

• Urban layouts and infrastructure
• 3D representations of buildings
• Green spaces and urban land cover
• Topographic features

Kuwait will leverage artificial intelligence to continuously monitor and update geographic data. The integration of AI systems will reduce update cycles from one year to under three months, significantly enhancing accuracy and efficiency. This will also lower reliance on manual labor by utilizing satellite and aerial imagery to monitor urban changes.

To ensure smooth implementation, government employees are undergoing training in AI-driven systems and data evaluation. This will support advanced monitoring and management of public infrastructure across sectors.

In parallel, Kuwait is investing KD 3.5 million to overhaul the Sahl app, a centralized digital services platform launched in 2021. The upgrade will transition the app to a managed services model with a dedicated technical support team.

Key goals include:

• 24/7 operational readiness
• Improved cloud infrastructure compatibility
• Enhanced user experience and accessibility

To further advance its digital governance goals, Kuwait is formulating a National Digital Skills Framework aligned with the internationally recognized Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA). This framework will:

• Identify digital skills gaps across public sector entities
• Define job roles and career paths
• Support workforce development in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI

Driving Regional Leadership in Smart Governance

Kuwait’s strategic move towards a digital twin ecosystem places the nation on track to become a regional leader in digital transformation by 2027. By harnessing AI, cloud technologies, and spatial analytics, the project is expected to reduce government spending, improve service delivery, and enable smarter policy decisions.

The Center for Government Communication (CGC) has outlined new regulations that all travelers must follow when carrying cash and valuable items through Kuwait International Airport. These rules, published in line with the Customs Inspection Procedures Guide, are aimed at improving transparency and compliance.

According to the CGC, anyone carrying cash or its equivalent totaling KD 3,000 or more—in either local or foreign currency—must declare it upon arrival or departure.

Travelers are also required to carry high-value items such as jewelry, watches, and electronic devices in their hand luggage, accompanied by valid purchase receipts.

Gold in all forms—whether raw, jewelry, or ornaments—must be declared. Travelers must submit an outgoing customs declaration form at departure and present purchase receipts upon arrival.

Failure to declare gold may result in arrest or confiscation of the undeclared items.

The CGC has urged travelers to complete the customs declaration form when departing from Kuwait International Airport to avoid legal issues or delays.

Violating these customs procedures may lead to arrest, fines, or confiscation. Authorities encourage all passengers to comply strictly with the regulations.

Mrs. Shyamala Divakaran, the visionary founder and long-serving principal of Gulf Indian School (GIS) in Fahaheel, Kuwait, has passed away at the age of 78. Her passing marks the end of an era in Indian education in Kuwait.

Originally from North Paravoor in Kerala, she dedicated her life to shaping the academic and moral framework of generations of Indian students in Kuwait. She leaves behind her husband and two children, Dr. Aruna and Dr. Rajeev, both of whom currently reside and work in the United States.

Mrs. Divakaran served as the Principal of Gulf Indian School for more than 20 years before retiring in 2022. Under her leadership, GIS evolved into one of the most respected Indian educational institutions in the country, known for academic excellence and holistic student development.

Her commitment to fostering discipline, moral values, and academic rigor helped establish a strong reputation for the school.

GIS Pays Tribute to Its Founding Soul

“She was not merely an institution builder; she was the soul of GIS – a woman whose quiet strength, radiant kindness, and steadfast vision transformed education into something sacred.”

Her dedication, humility, and deep care for every student set a gold standard in school leadership.

Mrs. Divakaran played an instrumental role in shaping the educational experience for thousands of expatriate children in Kuwait. Her leadership earned her admiration from students, parents, and fellow educators.

A Life Remembered

While she may no longer walk the halls of Gulf Indian School, Mrs. Shyamala Divakaran’s legacy will continue to inspire. Her story is one of vision, perseverance, and lifelong service.

India’s domestic airlines are actively restructuring their international flight schedules after the India-Kuwait air services agreement was updated on July 16, raising the weekly seat quota from 12,000 to 18,000. This marks the first increase in nearly two decades and has triggered a swift response from major Indian carriers eager to capitalize on the additional capacity.

Leading carriers including IndiGo, Air India, Akasa Air, and Air India Express have confirmed plans to enhance their services to Kuwait International Airport.

• IndiGo is seeking approximately 5,000 additional weekly seats to Kuwait City.
• Air India Express and Akasa Air are each aiming for around 3,000 seats.
• Air India is targeting an increase of 1,500 seats.

Airline executives have reportedly begun coordinating with Kuwait International Airport authorities to secure necessary airport slots ahead of the planned service launch in August 2025.

Focus on Southern Indian Cities with High Demand

New flights are expected to be launched from Chennai, Kochi, Bengaluru, and Thiruvananthapuram, cities known for their strong travel demand to Kuwait, especially among expatriate populations.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has asked all interested airlines to submit proposals by July 21 to finalize capacity distribution and begin regulatory clearances for the expanded operations.

The air services agreement signed on July 16 marks a pivotal update in India-Kuwait aviation relations, finally increasing the seat allotment after an 18-year freeze. The previous limit of 12,000 weekly seats had long been considered insufficient, with rising demand leading to seat shortages, higher prices, and booking difficulties.

If you’ve been officially terminated by your employer and have a valid termination letter, you are not considered absconding under Kuwaiti labor law. According to the legal framework, an absconding case can only be filed if the employee has been absent from work without notification for seven consecutive days. If you have already started working with a new employer, you are legally in the clear — assuming your visa transfer is in process.

Residency and Work Permit Transfer

Under Kuwait’s labor law (Private Sector), after an employee’s termination, the employer must either cancel the work permit or transfer it to a new sponsor within 90 days. If you have documentation proving you were terminated — and you’re actively working for another company — you are not considered absconding.

Article 42: Grounds for Absconding Reports

As per Article 42 of the labor law, a worker can be reported as absconding only if:

• They are absent from work without notice,
• They are not traceable for seven consecutive days.

Since you were officially terminated and have secured new employment, these conditions do not apply to you.

Can a False Case Be Filed?

Unfortunately, some companies may misuse the absconding mechanism to pressure former employees into compliance. While this is illegal, it does happen. If a false report is filed despite a termination letter, this is considered filing a false complaint, which is punishable under Kuwaiti law.

Steps to Take Immediately

1. Complete Your Residency Transfer Immediately

If your new employer hasn’t already processed the residency (iqama) transfer, urge them to complete it before the 90-day window closes. Once transferred, your old employer loses the authority to file any claim against you.

2. Maintain All Evidence

• Termination letter
• Communication (emails, WhatsApp, SMS) from previous employer
• New job offer or employment contract
• Civil ID copy showing ongoing work

3. Contact the Ministry of Labor (Shoon)

If an absconding case is filed:

• Visit the Ministry of Labor immediately.
• Present your termination letter and proof of new employment.
• A false report can be challenged and nullified.

4. Seek Assistance from Current Employer

Request your new employer’s HR to:

• Expedite iqama transfer,
• Provide documentation of your start date (e.g., May 4, 2025),
• Assist with legal matters if needed.

Final Advice: Act Quickly and Legally

You are not absconding. Your former HR manager is using intimidation tactics. However, time is crucial — completing your residency transfer closes the legal window for any threats.

Kuwait witnessed some of the hottest temperatures this summer on Tuesday, with the Meteorological Department reporting a sweltering 51°C in the Al-Rabiya area. Other regions, including Jahra, Abdali, and Kuwait International Airport, also recorded extreme heat, reaching 50°C.

Acting Director of the Meteorological Department, Dharar Al-Ali, stated in a briefing to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the current heatwave is the result of an extension of the Indian monsoon depression. This phenomenon has brought with it an intense and dry air mass, accompanied by light to moderate northwesterly winds. Coastal areas may experience variable wind patterns due to this atmospheric shift.

According to forecasts, Kuwait will continue to experience extremely hot daytime conditions and hot to warm nights over the next several days. The situation is particularly challenging along the coast, where humidity levels are expected to increase. However, the Meteorological Department anticipates a noticeable drop in humidity starting Friday.

The department further predicts that maximum temperatures could range between 50°C and 52°C in several regions. These extreme weather conditions are expected to persist through Saturday, urging residents to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Authorities are advising the public to minimize outdoor exposure during peak hours and to stay well-hydrated. Elderly individuals, children, and outdoor workers are especially vulnerable during this period.

The Kuwait Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued a directive requiring all real estate brokers and precious metals dealers in the country to register with the automated alert system managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This system provides real-time updates on international sanctions lists related to counterterrorism, terrorism financing, and arms proliferation.

According to a report by Al-Rai Daily, the ministry emphasized that the registration is mandatory and must be completed by July 31. Failure to comply will result in financial penalties in line with applicable legal frameworks.

This move comes as part of Kuwait’s broader commitment to international obligations under frameworks that aim to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and the illegal spread of weapons. The sanctions alert system helps businesses stay updated on blacklist designations that could impact their operations.

The Ministry stated, “All concerned parties must complete their registration by the deadline to avoid penalties and ensure their operations are aligned with international compliance standards.”

Real estate brokers and precious metals traders are particularly vulnerable to being unknowingly involved in financial transactions with sanctioned individuals or entities. By registering with the alert system, these businesses will receive timely notifications that allow them to take immediate action to remain compliant.

This initiative is aligned with the country’s ongoing efforts to reinforce financial transparency and protect its economy from illegal activities. Recent efforts by the Kuwait Financial Intelligence Unit (KWFIU) and Ministry of Commerce have also included stricter audits and training programs to promote compliance awareness.

Kuwait’s approach aligns with global best practices set forth by organizations such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which sets the standards for combating money laundering and terrorism financing.

The Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has officially approved the Genesis G90 as the designated vehicle for government ceremonies and protocol, underscoring the nation’s trust in the brand’s luxury, performance, and reliability.

Under the agreement with the Genesis agency in Kuwait, a fleet of G90 sedans will be delivered to the Ministry, customized to meet the specifications laid out by the General Traffic Department.

The Genesis G90 is the brand’s flagship luxury sedan. It features a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine with 375 horsepower, advanced safety systems, air suspension, and rear-wheel steering — combining innovation and comfort in one executive vehicle.

The model is already used by the Kuwaiti National Assembly for official transportation, affirming its credibility and high-level functionality.

The decision reflects Genesis’ rising reputation among government institutions. With this approval, the brand further cements its presence in Kuwait's public sector. 

This move aligns with Kuwait’s broader efforts to modernize its transportation assets across ministries — similar to upgrades seen in the Ministry of Public Works’ infrastructure projects.

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy reported that Kuwait’s national grid imported 612,692 megawatt-hours of electricity in June 2025 through the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), averaging 850 megawatts daily.

On June 16, the electricity load hit a peak of 17,520 megawatts, a 6.6% increase from 16,810 megawatts in June 2024. The spike corresponded with a temperature rise to 51°C, up from 50°C last year.

The lowest recorded load was on June 5 at 10,280 megawatts, a decrease of 6.1% compared to the previous year's 11,430 megawatts.

The Ministry connected electricity to 627 new customers across sectors:

• Private housing: 559
• Government housing: 32
• Investment: 18
• Agricultural: 9
• Industrial: 5
• Commercial: 4

Total electricity demand from new customers reached 77,822,746 kilowatts.

Freshwater consumption peaked at 517.459 million imperial gallons on June 4. Meanwhile, maximum water storage hit 4,300.573 million imperial gallons by the end of June.

Dr. Khaled Al-Ajmi, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA), issued decisions to extend and transfer officials to enhance performance and workflow.

• Bader Al-Azmi: Director of Awareness and Guidance Center
• Abdul Mohsen Al-Makhyal: Controller at Charitable Societies and Endowments
• Asim Al-Failakawi: Controller at Development and Membership Affairs
• Huda Al-Mutairi: Head of Administrative Support Department
• Kholoud Al-Khalidi: Head of Elderly Department

The General Traffic Department has officially reopened Hussein Bin Ali Al-Roumi Road—commonly referred to as the Fourth Ring Road—in the direction of Al-Adailiya. The reopened section lies between Damascus Street and Riyadh Street (Route 50) and became accessible to motorists at dawn on Sunday, July 13.

The reopening allows smoother and faster commutes for travelers moving from Salmiya towards Shuwaikh, which is a key traffic corridor in Kuwait.

This move is part of the broader Traffic and Operations Sector’s efforts to upgrade road infrastructure across the country. Regular maintenance and enhancement projects are being executed to improve traffic flow, minimize congestion, and ensure road safety for commuters.

The department urged all drivers to adhere to traffic regulations and speed limits while using the newly opened section to prevent accidents and ensure road safety.

The General Traffic Department continues to call for public cooperation and responsible driving during and after infrastructure enhancements. With the reopening of this key road segment, commuters are expected to experience less congestion and improved travel times, especially during peak hours.

In a significant move aimed at strengthening ties and simplifying travel procedures, the Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr. Adarsh Swaika, has officially announced the launch of the India e-visa service for Kuwaiti citizens, starting Monday. The announcement was made during a press conference held on Sunday, where Swaika described the development as “a qualitative shift in facilitating travel procedures and strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.”

The newly launched Indian e-visa service includes five main visa categories:

• Tourism
• Business
• Medical
• Conference
• AYUSH (alternative medicine, such as yoga and Ayurveda)

Swaika highlighted that Kuwaitis can now apply entirely online—eliminating the need to visit Indian visa centers. Applicants can submit forms, upload documents, and pay electronically. Biometric data will be collected upon arrival at any Indian airport.

The tourist visa is valid for up to five years and costs only $80, while other visa types range from $40 to $80. Processing time is typically three to four days, though minor delays may occur during initial rollout.

The e-visa launch is in response to longstanding requests from Kuwaiti nationals and reflects the deep historic and friendly ties between India and Kuwait. The move aims to:

• Promote tourism and cultural exchange
• Boost trade and business relations
• Encourage Kuwaiti investments in India
• Expand Indian company presence in Kuwait

Last year, 8,000 to 9,000 Kuwaitis visited India on tourist visas, a number expected to rise with simplified procedures.

Under a bilateral civil aviation agreement, 12,000 weekly seats are allocated to each country. Flights operate between nine direct destinations through:

• Kuwait Airways
• Jazeera Airways
• IndiGo
• Air India Express
• Akasa Air

Student visas remain outside the scope of the e-visa service and must be processed through traditional visa centers.

Ambassador Swaika hopes that this step will increase travel for tourism, business, and medical reasons, contributing to enhanced people-to-people connections between the two countries.

In a major step toward digital inclusion, Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah has announced the launch of a transformative digital accessibility initiative, developed in strategic collaboration with Microsoft. This project utilizes cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to facilitate equitable access to digital content and government services for people with disabilities in Kuwait.

This initiative is part of Kuwait’s broader e-government transformation and is set to significantly enhance the nation’s position in the United Nations E-Government Development Index (EGDI).

The new accessibility platform includes over 30 AI-powered features designed to meet global digital accessibility standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These features are tailored for individuals with:

• Visual impairments
• Dyslexia
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Epilepsy
• Cognitive and motor impairments

A standout feature is an AI-based interactive avatar that translates text and speech into Kuwaiti Sign Language using real-time animation. This facilitates instant and seamless communication for the deaf and hard of hearing, adjusting for user-specific speed, volume, and interaction.

Advancing Accessibility Through Technology

The project underscores Kuwait’s commitment to digital equity and ensures:

• Arabic language compatibility with accessibility tools
• WCAG-compliant government and service websites
• Real-time sign language translations beside content
• Unified accessibility across public and private platforms

Dr. Al-Huwailah confirmed that this effort is strongly backed by Kuwait’s political leadership, reflecting a national dedication to the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities.

The initiative ensures barrier-free access to key services, supporting Kuwait’s vision of an inclusive digital future. It aligns with global recommendations by bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF.

A Vision for an Inclusive Digital Future

Dr. Al-Huwailah emphasized that Kuwait’s aim is not only to comply with international standards but also to lead the region in accessibility innovation. The partnership with Microsoft places Kuwait on a path toward true digital inclusion, where everyone — regardless of ability — can fully participate in society.

In a significant move aimed at reinforcing national legal talent, Attorney General Counselor Saad Al-Safran issued a directive to transfer several prosecutors from partial and specialized prosecution offices to the General Prosecution Office. This decision is part of Kuwait’s broader strategy to "Kuwaitize" its legal framework and empower qualified local professionals across all levels of the justice system.

What makes this announcement especially noteworthy is the inclusion of highly qualified Kuwaiti women prosecutors in the transfers. This marks the first time such appointments have been made at the General Prosecution Office, establishing a new precedent in the country's legal history.

This action reflects Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to gender equality and inclusion in leadership roles, reinforcing the importance of diversity in shaping a robust judicial framework.

Aligning with Vision of National Leadership

The decision comes in line with the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, who has consistently emphasized the importance of increasing the participation of Kuwaiti nationals, especially women, in all branches of the state, including key sectors like the judiciary.

In a related development, Counselor Saad Al-Safran also appointed Counselor Badr Al-Masoud—currently serving as First Attorney General and Head of the Attorney General’s Technical Office—as the new Head of the General Prosecution Office.

Strengthening the Justice System with National Talent

The recent reshuffling underscores Kuwait’s commitment to building a future-ready judiciary rooted in national expertise and diversity. By promoting capable Kuwaiti legal professionals—both men and women—the country is reinforcing its foundations of justice, equality, and administrative integrity.

The Kuwait Municipality has introduced a new electronic application designed to streamline the complaint submission process. This initiative supports Kuwait’s digital transformation efforts and aims to enhance communication between the Municipality and the public.

• A detailed user guide for submitting complaints electronically via the official municipal platform
• Direct access to emergency teams through the 24/7 hotline No. 139

Capital Governorate Committee Meeting Highlights

The Capital Governorate Committee of the Municipal Council, chaired by Dr. Hassan Kamal, convened its second meeting in the fourth term on Wednesday. Two major proposals were approved:

1. Qadsiya Cooperative Society Connectivity

The Ministry of Social Affairs requested approval to construct a ground-level passageway linking the central market building of Qadsiya Cooperative Society with its vegetable branch and administration building.

2. Kuwait Sports Club Stadium Expansion

The Public Authority for Sports (PAS) requested approval to increase the stadium height in Kaifan to 34 meters, boosting capacity from 12,000 to 15,000. The committee emphasized preserving residential privacy, minimizing noise/light disruption, and conducting a traffic study.

1. Kuwait Technical Entrepreneurship Complex

The Public Authority for Youth was granted approval to implement the Kuwait Technical Entrepreneurship Complex (formerly Technology Business City) in Mubarak Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber, Block Four, with modifications to project components.

2. Investment Housing Parking Spaces

Member Alia Al-Farsi's proposal to enhance parking spaces for investment housing was approved to alleviate congestion in residential zones.

India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has released its preliminary findings into the tragic crash of Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which went down shortly after departing from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12.

According to the report, the aircraft suffered a catastrophic dual engine failure within 90 seconds of takeoff, causing a rapid descent that led to a fatal crash into nearby residential buildings.

Data recovered from the aircraft’s Enhanced Airborne Flight Recorder (EAFR) revealed that both engine fuel cutoff switches were mistakenly moved from RUN to CUTOFF — just one second apart — shortly after liftoff. This sequence caused an immediate loss of thrust in both engines.

A cockpit voice recording captured a moment of confusion, with one pilot asking the other, “Why did you cut off?” The response: “I did not.”

This unexpected event triggered deployment of the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) and initiated a steep descent. Despite efforts by the flight crew to re-engage the engines, only Engine 1 showed signs of recovery. Engine 2 failed to stabilize, and the aircraft never regained sufficient altitude.

At 08:09 UTC, a “MAYDAY” distress call was sent — moments before the aircraft crashed into buildings outside the airport perimeter, including the BJ Medical College hostel.

The crash caused severe structural damage and fire across five buildings. Notably, the aircraft’s Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) did not activate, potentially delaying rescue coordination. However, emergency response units arrived within five minutes of the crash.

The pilot-in-command, aged 56 with 15,000+ flying hours, and the co-pilot, aged 32 with 3,400+ hours, were both experienced and had no recent duty irregularities or health issues.

Investigators also referenced a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) issued by the FAA in 2018, which warned about potential issues involving fuel control switch locking mechanisms on Boeing aircraft models.

The AAIB has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Additional data, stakeholder input, and technical records are being examined before the final report is released in the coming months.

This incident has prompted renewed scrutiny on fuel control system designs and pilot training protocols.

The Cybercrime Department of the Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has issued a public advisory urging all citizens and expatriates to exercise extreme caution when handling personal information online. The department emphasized that sharing data such as the civil identification number, One-Time Passwords (OTPs) sent by banks, or any banking and personal details with unauthorized entities can lead to fraudulent activities and financial losses.

The advisory comes in response to the growing number of online scams targeting residents. Fraudsters often pose as representatives of banks, telecom companies, or government agencies to extract sensitive data under false pretenses. The Ministry has observed a spike in complaints involving the unauthorized use of OTPs and civil IDs, resulting in compromised accounts and cyber theft.

Safety Measures to Prevent Cybercrime

• Never share your civil ID or OTP with unverified sources.
• Avoid responding to suspicious emails, texts, or calls claiming to be from banks or government agencies.
• Verify the legitimacy of any request before disclosing personal or financial information.
• Install security software and regularly update passwords.
• Report any suspicious activity immediately to the Cybercrime Unit.

The Ministry of Interior continues to work closely with national and international cybersecurity agencies to detect, prevent, and prosecute digital crimes. Public awareness campaigns are being launched across platforms to educate residents about the latest tactics used by scammers.

Real-Life Examples of Cybercrime in the Region

Authorities cited recent incidents where victims unknowingly provided bank OTPs or civil ID numbers, resulting in unauthorized withdrawals and account breaches. In several cases, scammers used counterfeit websites or apps that resembled official ones to deceive users.

Final Word: Vigilance is the First Line of Defense

As cybercriminals become increasingly sophisticated, vigilance remains the key to protection. The Ministry of Interior reiterates that no official body will ever request banking credentials or OTPs via phone or message. Residents must remain alert and think twice before responding to any request involving personal data.

The Ministry of Public Works in Kuwait has officially launched a transformative organizational and administrative restructure aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and the quality of services. This initiative, approved by the Civil Service Commission (CSC), is a cornerstone of broader government reforms focused on modernization and digital innovation.

The number of assistant undersecretaries has been reduced from ten to two to streamline leadership and accelerate decision-making. A new director general will supervise five directors, each overseeing specialized technical or administrative departments.

Minister Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan stated that the restructuring includes dedicated units for cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and geographic information systems (GIS). These enhancements reflect Kuwait’s commitment to digital transformation and innovation in engineering and infrastructure projects.

The restructure adopts a flexible, standards-based administrative model to make the best use of human and technical resources. This ensures readiness to meet future challenges and support national development goals.

The Ministry collaborated with the Civil Service Bureau to develop a governance guide that enhances transparency, defines responsibilities, and supports institutional integrity.

1. Minister’s Office Includes:

• Technical Office
• Inspection and Auditing Unit
• Consulting Office
• Undersecretary’s Office

2. Key Departments Under Ministry Oversight:

• Legal Affairs
• Strategic Planning
• Environmental Auditing
• Public Relations
• Personnel Affairs
• Procurement
• Information Systems
• Major Projects
• Maintenance
• Sanitary Engineering

This restructuring will allow the ministry to deliver advanced public services, ensure effective oversight, and contribute to Kuwait’s Vision 2035 by fostering professionalism and institutional agility.

India’s Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, met with Kuwait’s Minister of Oil and Chairman, HE Tareq Sulaiman Al-Roumi, on Wednesday, July 9, during the 9th OPEC International Seminar held in Vienna.

This high-level meeting was part of ongoing efforts to deepen strategic energy ties between the two nations, both of which are key stakeholders in the global oil and gas industry.

During the discussion, both ministers emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation in the energy sector, focusing on:

• Long-term crude oil supply agreements
• Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) imports
• Investment opportunities in the hydrocarbon value chain

Kuwait plays a critical role in fulfilling India’s growing energy demands. As of 2024, Kuwait ranks as:

• The 6th largest supplier of crude oil to India
• The 4th largest source of LPG imports
• The 8th largest hydrocarbon trade partner overall

Both sides reiterated their commitment to a stable and predictable energy partnership, recognizing the mutual benefits of such collaboration. The ministers also explored possibilities for joint ventures and technological collaboration in energy efficiency and renewable integration.

Broader Implications in Regional and Global Energy Markets

The timing of this meeting is particularly significant given current volatility in global oil markets and increasing geopolitical risks. By engaging proactively, India and Kuwait aim to:

• Stabilize bilateral trade in oil and gas
• Support market resilience
• Enhance cooperation under multilateral platforms like OPEC