Kuwait is implementing stringent traffic laws to improve road safety and reduce violations. This article provides an updated overview of major traffic violations, fines, points, and the latest legislative changes in Kuwait for 2024.

Major Traffic Violations, Fines, and Points in Kuwait

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
  • Fine: KD 1,000 - KD 3,000
  • Points: 14 points
  • Additional Penalty: 1 to 3 years imprisonment
• Reckless Driving
  • Fine: KD 150 (increased from KD 30)
  • Points: 14 points
  • Additional Penalty: Possible vehicle impoundment
• Exceeding Speed Limit
  • Fine: Up to KD 500
  • Points: 4 - 6 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 3 months imprisonment
• Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
  • Fine: KD 300
  • Points: 4 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 3 months imprisonment
• Not Wearing a Seatbelt
  • Fine: KD 10
  • Points: 2 points
• Running a Red Light
  • Fine: KD 150 (increased from KD 50)
  • Points: 6 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 3 months imprisonment
• Illegal Overtaking
  • Fine: KD 30 - KD 75
  • Points: 4 points
• Driving Without a License
  • Fine: Up to KD 100
  • Points: 14 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 3 months imprisonment
• Obstructing Traffic
  • Fine: KD 15 - KD 50
  • Points: 4 points
• Parking Violations
  • Fine: KD 10 - KD 30
  • Points: 2 points
• Driving a Vehicle Without Insurance
  • Fine: Up to KD 50
  • Points: 14 points
• Driving a Vehicle in Poor Condition
  • Fine: KD 20 - KD 100
  • Points: 6 points
• Driving a Vehicle with Expired Registration
  • Fine: KD 10 - KD 30
  • Points: 4 points
• Transporting Passengers Illegally
  • Fine: Up to KD 100
  • Points: 6 points
  • Additional Penalty: Possible vehicle confiscation
• Violating Lane Discipline
  • Fine: KD 10 - KD 30
  • Points: 4 points
• Not Giving Way to Emergency Vehicles
  • Fine: KD 250 - KD 500
  • Points: 6 points
• Towing Another Vehicle Illegally
  • Fine: KD 15 - KD 50
  • Points: 6 points
• Illegally Tinting the Car
  • Fine: Up to KD 200
  • Points: 6 points
  • Additional Penalty: Up to 2 months imprisonment
• Leaving Children or Pets Peeking Out of the Car
  • Fine: KD 75
  • Points: 2 points
• Placing a Child Under 10 Years Old in the Front Seats
  • Fine: KD 100 - KD 200
  • Points: 2 points

Updates to Traffic Laws and Penalties

Director of the Security Media Department at the Ministry of Interior, Brigadier Nasser Bousleib, has announced that Kuwait is working on a new traffic law to increase fines and penalties for certain violations. Notably:

• Crossing the Red Light: Fine increased from KD 50 to KD 150.
• Reckless Driving: Fine increased to KD 150, with potential vehicle impoundment.

These changes aim to deter traffic violations and enhance road safety in Kuwait.

Pay Your Traffic Fines Online

You can pay your traffic fines online through the Ministry of Interior’s eServices portal: Pay Your Traffic Fines in Kuwait

Comprehensive List of Traffic Violations

For a detailed list of every traffic offense, fine, violation points, reconciliation, and imprisonment in Kuwait, refer to the embedded link below:

Some of the most common traffic offenses in Kuwait include:

• Speeding
• Running Red Lights
• Illegal Parking
• Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
• Driving Without a Valid License

For more details, you can read about the Smart Parking Initiative that aims to alleviate traffic gridlock in Kuwait.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the maximum fine for a traffic violation in Kuwait?The maximum fine can go up to KD 3,000 for severe violations like driving under the influence.Q2: How can I pay my traffic fines in Kuwait?Traffic fines can be paid online through the Ministry of Interior’s website, at designated payment centers, through mobile apps, and at specific banks.Q3: Are there any special rules for new drivers in Kuwait?New drivers, often referred to as “probationary drivers,”New drivers, often referred to as “probationary drivers,” may have stricter rules and may be subject to more severe penalties for traffic violations.Q4: What happens if I accumulate too many traffic points?Accumulating too many traffic points can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.

Understanding and complying with traffic regulations is essential for safe driving and avoiding penalties in Kuwait. Stay informed about the latest laws and ensure you drive responsibly to contribute to safer roads.

In a recent television program, Capital Prosecutor and head of Anti-Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling, Ahmad Al-Kandari, emphasized Kuwait's strict penalties for human trafficking, which can escalate to the death penalty under severe circumstances. He explained that human trafficking involves both material and moral aspects, where the material aspect includes actions like reception, shelter, and coercion, while the moral aspect involves the perpetrator's awareness of committing a crime.

Kuwait's Law No. 91/2013 addresses human trafficking with a range of penalties depending on the crime's severity. For instance, imprisonment can extend up to 15 years, increasing to life imprisonment if the victim is a child or a person with special needs, or if the crime involves weapons. In cases where the victim dies, the law mandates the death penalty for the perpetrators.

Dr. Fahad Murad, Deputy Director General of the Manpower Protection Sector at the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM), highlighted that the PAM shelter provides a safe haven for human trafficking victims. These victims can enter the shelter independently or through diplomatic missions. The shelter offers comprehensive services, including medical care, psychological support, and legal assistance, ensuring victims receive the necessary aid without any financial burden.

Kuwait is committed to fulfilling its humanitarian and legal obligations by fighting human trafficking. Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad, the official spokesperson of the Health Ministry, reiterated that the ministry, in collaboration with the Permanent National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling, implements strategies to protect victims. These efforts include medical assessments and necessary treatments for shelter residents, as well as coordination with security agencies to report potential trafficking cases.

To strengthen child protection, the Health Ministry has established hotline number 147, dedicated to receiving reports of child abuse. The hotline is part of Kuwait's broader initiative to protect children and prevent human trafficking. The hotline is staffed by trained professionals who handle calls confidentially and sensitively, ensuring that children under 18 and their families receive appropriate support and intervention.

Kuwait's robust legal framework and proactive measures reflect its commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals. The establishment of specialized services and reporting mechanisms underscores the nation's dedication to maintaining safety and justice for all residents.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has introduced a new electronic service designed to combat the issue of counterfeit trademarks. This service enables users to report counterfeit brands directly through the ministry's electronic trademark system at trademark.moci.gov.kw. Users can easily select the option to report a counterfeit trademark, fill in the necessary details, and upload the required documentation.

Enhanced Process for Issuing Certificates of Origin

In addition to the new counterfeit reporting service, the MoCI has also streamlined the process for issuing Certificates of Origin for national products. This new feature, accessible through the ministry’s electronic portal, allows users to upload essential documents such as industrial licenses and export invoices. The enhanced process aims to facilitate smoother and more efficient export procedures for Kuwaiti businesses.

Kuwait, a gem in the Gulf, attracts numerous visitors yearly for tourism, business, and family reunions. To ensure smooth entry and stay, it is crucial to be well-versed with the latest visa regulations. This article provides an in-depth understanding of the different types of visas available for entry into Kuwait in 2024, the specific requirements, and the penalties associated with overstaying.

1. Entry Visa Permit Holders:

• Categories: Private Sectors, Family Visa, Profession Practice, Domestic Labor, Temporary Government Contracts.
• Requirements: Applicants must contact the Embassy/Consulate of Kuwait in their home country with a Criminal Clearance Certificate for ratification.
• Validity: Allows temporary residence for two months from the entry date. During this period, the visa holder must refer to the General Department of Residency Affairs to complete the necessary requirements for a regular residence.
• Important Note: Any discrepancy between the Entry Visa data and passport data will result in the visa being considered invalid, prohibiting entry into Kuwait.

2. Visit Entry Visa:

• Categories: Government, Commercial, Family.
• Validity: Permits a one-month stay from the entry date. The visa holder must leave immediately upon the expiration of the visa duration.
• Work Restriction: The visa explicitly prohibits employment during the stay.

3. Touristic Visa:

• Validity: Allows a three-month stay from the entry date.
• Work Restriction: Employment is strictly prohibited.

4. Transit Visa:

• Validity: Grants temporary residence for seven days from the entry date.

5. Truck Drivers' Visa:

• Validity: Permits a 14-day stay from the entry date.

Penalties for Overstaying

Overstaying your visa in Kuwait can lead to significant fines. The penalties are as follows:

• Residence Visa: 2 K.D. daily after the initial two months.
• Visit Visa: 10 K.D. daily for the first month, followed by 2 K.D. daily thereafter.
• Touristic Visa: 2 K.D. daily after the initial three months.
• Transit Visa: 2 K.D. daily after the initial seven days.
• Truck Drivers' Visa: 2 K.D. daily after the initial 14 days.

Important Instructions

• Embassy Contact: Entry visa holders must contact the Kuwaiti Embassy/Consulate in their country for necessary clearances.
• Data Accuracy: Ensure all visa data matches the passport details to avoid invalidation.
• Temporary Residence: Entry visa permits allow temporary residence, requiring follow-up with the General Department of Residency Affairs.
• Work Prohibition: Visit and touristic visas prohibit any form of employment.

The Al-Ojeiri Scientific Center announced that the Marzam hot season is set to start from Monday and will continue for the next 13 days. This period marks the beginning of a new stage of the summer season and is significant in the Arab summer calendar.

Marzam is known as the fifth summer house for the Arabs and the sixth in the calendar of the houses of the sun and the moon. It precedes the season (Al-Kulaibain), which is typically the humidity season in Kuwait, and is followed by the season (Suhail).

During Marzam, often referred to as the period of the “ember of heat,” the temperature of the earth intensifies. This season is also notable for the readiness of dates for harvest. The length of the day extends to 13 hours and 36 minutes during Marzam.

Marzam is named after the star (Al-Marzam), which is distinguished by its extreme brightness. It is considered the brightest star in the sky, adding to the significance of this period.

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense and Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Al-Sabah has issued a resolution amending certain provisions of Article 29 of Ministerial Resolution No. 957/2019. This regulation, which outlines the executive guidelines of the Expatriates Residency Law, now allows expatriates without a university degree to bring their spouses and children to Kuwait under a family visa, provided their salary is at least KD 800.

Article One of the new resolution stipulates that expatriates can obtain a regular family visa if their monthly salary is not less than KD 800, based on their work permit.

The resolution also introduces flexibility for family visas for children born within or outside Kuwait, who are under five years old. The Director General of the Residency Affairs General Department at the Interior Ministry can exempt these cases from the KD 800 salary requirement, based on regulations and conditions specified by the department.

According to Article Two, the undersecretary of the ministry responsible for implementing this decision will put it into effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette. Residency affairs departments in the governorates have already begun receiving family visa applications from expatriates who do not hold a university degree but have a salary of at least KD 800.

This resolution marks a significant change in family visa regulations, offering more flexibility for expatriates in Kuwait to reunite with their families under specific conditions.

The new Kuwait International Airport (T2) is set to revolutionize the country's aviation sector. This significant investment in airport infrastructure is expected to boost economic growth and enhance the passenger experience in Kuwait.

Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan, Minister of Public Works and State Minister for Municipal Affairs, has voiced strong support for the civil aviation sector, emphasizing its role as a key driver of economic progress. In a recent meeting with key government agencies involved in the T2 project, Dr. Al-Mashaan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the project's success.

The meeting, which included the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Sheikh Hamad Al-Mubarak, and representatives from various government departments, focused on addressing and overcoming challenges to expedite the project’s progress, as reported by Al-Anba newspaper.

Dr. Al-Mashaan highlighted the importance of interagency collaboration to meet the project’s deadlines. "Effective cooperation is essential to ensure the project is completed on schedule," she stated.

Potential challenges, such as traffic congestion and cybersecurity threats, were also discussed. The minister stressed the need for a unified approach to tackle these issues effectively.

Key areas of focus for streamlining the project include:

• Coordinating with the Civil Aviation Authority to relocate security barriers.
• Securing land for waste disposal.
• Expediting subcontractor approvals for aircraft fueling systems in collaboration with KAFCO.

Additionally, close cooperation with the Kuwait Oil Company is essential to resolve conflicts and determine the best route for the new airport road.

Cybersecurity is a top priority for the T2 project. Dr. Al-Mashaan revealed that workshops are being held in collaboration with the National Cybersecurity Center to meticulously review the security specifications in the project contract. "Safeguarding sensitive information is paramount," she emphasized, reflecting the government’s commitment to a secure digital environment.

Kuwait Airways has announced that flight KU125, which was en route to Sarajevo, had to return to the airport due to a technical malfunction.

Safe Landing and Passenger Safety

In an official statement, the airline assured that the aircraft landed safely without any damage, confirming that all passengers are unharmed. The flight crew implemented all necessary safety measures and is now coordinating with passengers to complete their travel to their final destination.

Ongoing Investigation

The company stated, “Investigations are currently underway to determine the causes of this technical failure, in accordance with approved procedures. We thank everyone for their understanding and cooperation in maintaining the safety of passengers.”

Coordinating with Passengers

Kuwait Airways is actively coordinating with the affected passengers to ensure they reach their final destination as soon as possible. The airline is committed to maintaining high safety standards and providing excellent customer service during this process.

In a tragic incident on July 24, 2024, a Saurya Airlines plane crashed at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal. The Bombardier CRJ 200 aircraft was en route to Pokhara when it experienced a runway excursion during takeoff, leading to a catastrophic crash that resulted in the deaths of 18 people. The plane was carrying 19 passengers, including 17 maintenance crew members, with the pilot being the sole survivor and currently in stable condition.

The plane was taking off from the southern end of the runway when it flipped, causing its right wing tip to hit the ground. This impact led to the aircraft catching fire and ultimately plunging into a gorge on the eastern side of the runway. Eyewitnesses reported thick smoke billowing from the crash site as rescue teams worked to recover the bodies and assist the injured.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about air safety in Nepal. The country’s challenging terrain, rapidly changing weather conditions, and aging aircraft fleet contribute to frequent air accidents. Nepalese airlines have faced international scrutiny and sanctions, including a ban from operating in EU airspace since 2013, due to safety concerns.

Verifying the validity of your Civil ID address in Kuwait is essential for ensuring that your personal information is accurate and up to date. Utilizing modern tools like the Sahel app and the PACI website, residents can effortlessly check their Civil ID status and address validity. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to check your Civil ID address using both the Sahel app and the PACI website, providing you with a seamless way to manage your civil documentation. Whether you prefer using a mobile application or an online portal, this article covers all the necessary steps to ensure your address information is correct, helping you stay compliant with the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) requirements.

Steps to Check the Validity of Your Civil ID Address via Sahel App 

Checking the validity of your Civil ID address in Kuwait is easy using the Sahel app. Follow these steps to ensure your address information is accurate and up to date:

• Open the Sahel App: Launch the Sahel app on your mobile device.
• Access Services: Tap the second tab from the bottom to navigate to the 'Services' section.
• Select PACI Services: In the Services section, locate and click on the PACI (Public Authority for Civil Information) logo.
• Navigate the PACI Menu: In the PACI dropdown list, click on the third menu option.
• Choose Address Check: Select the second last menu item to proceed.
• View Your Civil ID Number: Your Civil ID number will be displayed. Click on it to check if your address is valid. 

These steps will help you quickly verify the status of your Civil ID address using the Sahel app.

 Steps to Check the Validity of Your Civil ID Address via PACI Website 

• Click on the link given here. Select 'Address Availability'.
• Enter your civil ID number.
• It will show you whether you have a valid address or not. 

Keeping your Civil ID address valid is essential for smooth interactions with Kuwait's government services. The Sahel app and PACI website provide easy methods to verify your address and ensure your information is current. Try these tools today and share your experience in the comments below!

In a significant development for Kuwait’s oil industry, plans are underway to merge four oil companies into two entities by 2025. An official document obtained by Al-Seyassah reveals that the Kuwait Gulf Oil Company (KGOC) will be merged with the Kuwait Oil Company (KOC), marking the second stage in the consolidation process. The Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) is overseeing the transfer of shares from KGOC to KOC.

Sources close to the matter indicate that the final stages of the merger are being meticulously managed to avoid any disruption to the operations of the eight oil companies involved in the consolidation. Sheikh Nawaf Al-Saud Al-Sabah, CEO of the Petroleum Corporation, is personally leading the merger efforts, emphasizing a careful approach to ensure smooth integration. The merger is expected to yield significant financial benefits, with an estimated annual savings of approximately $1.25 billion. These savings will be achieved through reduced costs, streamlined maintenance operations, and other efficiencies.

The consolidation plans are set to unfold over the next few years, with the ultimate goal of merging no fewer than four oil companies into two entities by 2025. The KPC is committed to preserving the rights and benefits of the national workforce, and the CEO has been actively engaging with labor union leaders to address any concerns related to the merger. Future merger activities will focus on integrating companies with similar functions, such as the Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company (KUFPEC) and Kuwait Petroleum International Company, which share similar international activities.

The merger strategy has been informed by international and regional oil industry experiences, with the primary objective being to enhance Kuwait’s oil and gas production capabilities. The consolidation aims to foster greater exploration and production efficiency while adhering to global environmental standards.

Kuwait Municipality has announced the launch of an electronic building files inquiry service through the Sahel application, starting tomorrow, Monday. This initiative marks a significant step towards improving service quality and enhancing digital transformation within the municipality.

Yousef Al-Azmi, Assistant Undersecretary for Development and Information Sector at Kuwait Municipality, stated that the service aims to streamline procedures for citizens. By linking with the Ministry of Justice, the service automatically displays all plots owned by the user.

How to Access the Service?

To access the service, users can:

Enter the Sahel application.

Select the “Construction File” service.

View available plots.

Select the required plot and click on “Upload Technical File” to view the technical file’s contents and any associated documents.

Benefits of the New Service

This new service allows easy electronic access to construction files, eliminating the need for citizens to visit the relevant department. It provides clear visibility of all technical file contents, including:

Ownership documents

Plans

Pledges

Other relevant documents

Enhanced Efficiency and Convenience

The service saves time and effort for citizens by providing a streamlined process for accessing building files. This digital transformation initiative underscores Kuwait Municipality’s commitment to improving service quality and efficiency.

Kuwait Municipality's new electronic building file inquiry service via the Sahel app represents a major advancement in service delivery and digital transformation. This initiative enhances convenience, efficiency, and transparency for citizens, aligning with Kuwait's broader goals for digital innovation.

Along with the recent global glitch known as the “blue screen of death,” experts have raised alarms about the increasing number of victims falling prey to electronic fraud, hackers, and fake brokers. According to Safaa Al-Zaman, a professor of Information Technology at Kuwait University and Head of the Kuwait Society for Information Security, the number of fake broker companies in Kuwait is increasing. These companies adopt misleading tactics to convince victims to engage in trading in capital markets and real estate.

Al-Zaman revealed that the number of banking fraud victims among citizens and residents has reached 200,000 over four years, disclosing that she herself fell victim to electronic fraud. She recounted being informed by a fellow citizen of losing KD 300,000 to a fake trading company. She expressed concern over how these fraudulent companies manage to operate from well-known complexes in Kuwait, using names and labels similar to trusted companies with slight alterations to deceive clients.

Al-Zaman warned individuals that these companies employ non-Kuwaiti workers fluent in Kuwaiti dialect to promise gains exceeding 100 percent of the capital. She also expressed dismay that some local banks facilitate money transfers abroad through applications, which fraudsters could exploit. Al-Zaman indicated that fraud companies might exploit a bank’s identity, hack its email, and reroute victims’ funds to themselves instead of the intended bank account.

Bader Al-Khudhari, an Information Technology professor at the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET), highlighted a rise in the number of fake broker companies, indicating that the elderly and less educated are particularly vulnerable. He expressed astonishment over reports that the number of fraud crimes in Kuwait reached 128,000 during the period between 2020 and 2022. Al-Khudhari questioned the actions taken by regulatory institutions in response to these figures and stressed the importance of communication companies strengthening regulations on SIM card purchases to help safeguard the public.

Shafi Al-Ajmi, CEO of Kuwait Petroleum International (KPI), is actively overseeing the company’s branches across Europe and Asia, as well as its global investments, to assess the impact of the recent global technical failure. Despite widespread technical disruptions, all of the company’s international fuel stations continued to operate normally without interruptions. KPI’s supply lines for jet fuel, crucial for global air navigation, remained stable, underscoring the company's resilience and effective management in maintaining operations amidst global challenges.

Sheikh Khaled Ahmad Al-Sabah, Acting CEO of the Kuwait Oil Tanker Company, has assured that the company’s tankers are continuing their global voyages uninterrupted despite the recent global technical glitch. He emphasized that the company is maintaining a close watch on operations and conducting continuous risk assessments to navigate these emergency circumstances effectively.

Similarly, Ahmad Al-Kreibani, CEO of Kuwait Airways, confirmed that the airline’s systems are functioning normally and without interruption around the clock. The airline has ensured continuous communication with passengers, external stations, and security sectors to guarantee the safety of both passengers and aircraft. Al-Kreibani highlighted the swift actions taken by the Cyber Security Sector and the Information Technology Department at Kuwait Airways to isolate any affected systems quickly, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to maintaining uninterrupted operations and providing seamless services to its customers.

As the threat of electronic fraud and fake brokers grows, it is imperative for regulatory institutions, communication companies, and individuals to take proactive measures to protect against these risks. The recent experiences of various industry leaders in Kuwait highlight the importance of resilience and effective management in maintaining operations amidst global challenges.

Starting Sunday, July 21, the moon will reach its full phase, known as the Muharram full moon, with a brightness of 100 percent. This event will provide an excellent opportunity for skywatchers to view a fully illuminated moon.

Mercury's Maximum Eastern Elongation on July 22

On July 22, Mercury will achieve its maximum eastern elongation, positioning itself at its highest point above the western horizon just after sunset. This moment is ideal for observing and photographing the planet.

Moon and Saturn Conjunction on July 24

Following this, on July 24, the moon will rise in conjunction with Saturn, creating a captivating view as both celestial bodies will appear side by side in the night sky until sunrise the next morning.

Mercury and Regulus Alignment on July 25

Additionally, on July 25, Mercury will align with the star Regulus, the brightest star in the constellation Leo, known for its prominent visibility in the night sky.

Delta Aquarid Meteor Shower Begins on July 28

The final notable event of the week will occur on July 28, when the moon transitions to its second quarter phase, rising late after midnight. This day will also mark the beginning of the Delta Aquarid meteor shower, which is expected to last for two days. This meteor shower, characterized by a medium density, is anticipated to produce up to 20 meteors per hour.

Public Encouragement for Skywatching

The Al-Ojairi Scientific Center encourages the public to take advantage of these celestial events for both viewing and educational purposes.

During a recent briefing, KFF Director Brigadier Mohammad Al-Ghareeb emphasized the critical importance of possessing and knowing how to use fire prevention equipment. Essential items include fire blankets, smoke and gas detectors, and fire extinguishers. These tools are vital in mitigating fire risks and ensuring safety in the home and workplace.

Electrical Safety Measures

Brigadier Al-Ghareeb highlighted that electrical faults, often resulting from overloaded circuits, are a major cause of fires. To minimize this risk, he advised the public to shut off unnecessary electrical devices, especially during peak usage times. Regular inspections and maintenance of electrical systems are also crucial in preventing such hazards.

Gas Stove Hazards

The KFF director also cautioned about the dangers associated with gas stoves. He advised residents to ensure proper maintenance and operation of gas appliances to prevent leaks and potential explosions. Regular checks and adherence to safety protocols can significantly reduce the risk of gas-related incidents.

Vehicle and Elevator Maintenance

In addition to household safety, Al-Ghareeb underscored the importance of regular vehicle and elevator maintenance. Ensuring these systems are in good working order can prevent tragic accidents and enhance overall safety during the extreme heat period.

An official spokesperson for the General Directorate of Civil Aviation has announced that all technical systems at Kuwait International Airport have been restored to their normal operations. The airline systems at the airport have also returned to their standard functioning.

Key Role of the Emergency Business Continuity Plan

The spokesperson emphasized that the rapid response and the implementation of the emergency business continuity plan, approved by civil aviation, were crucial in minimizing the negative impacts of the disruption. The effectiveness of this plan played a significant role in restoring normal operations swiftly.

Appreciation for the Efforts

The spokesperson expressed gratitude to everyone involved in activating the plan, including civil aviation employees, the Ministry of Interior, Customs, ground services companies, and airlines. Their combined efforts were instrumental in overcoming the challenges faced by some flights at Kuwait International Airport.

In a heart-wrenching tragedy, a family of four lost their lives in a fire at their apartment in Abbasiya. The incident occurred on Friday night, claiming the lives of Mathew Mulackal, his wife Lini Abraham, and their two children, Isack and Irine.

The Incident

The family, originally from Kerala, had just returned from a vacation on Friday morning. Initial reports indicate that the fire started from the air conditioning unit in their apartment. Despite efforts to contain the blaze, the family could not escape the deadly flames.

About the Family

Mathew Mulackal was employed with Reuters, while his wife, Lini Abraham, worked as a staff nurse at Adan Hospital. Their children were students at Bhavans Kuwait, making the loss even more profound for the local community and their school.

Response and Community Impact

The tragic incident has cast a pall over the community, prompting an outpouring of grief and condolences from friends, colleagues, and neighbors. Local authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire and to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Safety Measures

In light of these incidents, it is crucial to revisit and reinforce fire safety measures within homes and communities. Regular maintenance of electrical appliances, installation of smoke detectors, and having an emergency escape plan can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related tragedies.

Updating your Civil ID address in Kuwait is crucial if you've moved to a new building or your previous building has been demolished. Failing to update your address can result in fines of up to 100 KD. Here’s a comprehensive guide on who needs to update their Civil ID address, the required documents, how to get a PACI appointment, and common issues faced during the process.

Who Needs to Update Their Civil ID Address?

• Moved to a New Building: If you've relocated to a new building but haven't updated your Civil ID address.
• Demolished Building: If your building has been demolished and you've moved to a new residence without updating your Civil ID address.

Required Documents for Updating Your Civil ID

• Vasika Paper: This document, issued by the municipality, is typically held by the building owner. Request a copy from your haris (building caretaker).
• Sanad Aghad (Rental Agreement): Provide both the original and a copy of your rental agreement.
• Rental Receipts: Copies of the last two months' rental receipts.
• Two Color Photos: Recent color photographs.
• Passport Copy: A copy of your passport.
• Civil ID Copy: A copy of your current Civil ID.
• Work Permit (Isnamil): In some cases, a work permit is required.
• Ithama Thokia: Additional document specific to your situation.

Special Cases

If the rental agreement is not in your name and you are sharing the residence with someone else, you must provide all the above documents along with the Civil ID copy of the person whose name is on the rental agreement. This person also needs to sign the form.

Common Issues Faced

• Shared Rental Agreements: PACI may not approve your address update if the rental agreement is not in your name, a common issue for bachelors and families sharing accommodations.
• Demolished Buildings: Many residents of demolished buildings face difficulties updating their address due to shared rental agreements.

How to Get a PACI Appointment

After gathering all the required documents, you need to book an appointment with PACI (Public Authority for Civil Information) to update your Civil ID address. Here’s how you can get a PACI appointment:

1. Visit the PACI Appointment Booking Page
2. Select PACI - Personal Services
3. Choose Change of Address
4. Select Required Branch
5. Book Available Time Slot

Importance of Updating Your Address

This is the last month to update your address to avoid fines. Ensure all your documents are in order and submit your request promptly.

FAQs

1. What happens if I don’t update my Civil ID address?

If you fail to update your Civil ID address, you may face fines of up to 100 KD. PACI has launched a nationwide address verification survey and is urging citizens to update their information to avoid penalties.

2. Can I update my Civil ID address if the rental agreement is not in my name?

If the rental agreement is not in your name, you need to provide all required documents and the Civil ID copy of the person whose name is on the rental agreement. This person also needs to sign the form. However, PACI may still not approve your request, which is a common issue faced by many.

3. What should I do if my building is demolished?

If your building has been demolished, you need to update your Civil ID address immediately. PACI has been deleting residential addresses of demolished buildings and urging residents to update their information.

4. How can I check if my Civil ID has a valid address?

You can check whether your Civil ID has a valid address by visiting the PACI website or contacting their customer service.

In response to directives from the Council of Ministers, the Ministry of Social Affairs is formulating an emergency plan to ensure the provision of essential food and materials for citizens and residents amidst current regional uncertainties. This initiative aims to mitigate potential disruptions in the supply chain of essential and complementary food commodities across central markets and cooperative branches nationwide.

The Ministry of Social Affairs, which oversees the operations, accounts, and purchasing policies of cooperative societies, is emphasizing the importance of maintaining food security during these uncertain times. Cooperative societies are pivotal in maintaining food and commodity stocks, and the ministry’s plan aims to secure these vital supplies.

The emergency plan includes the establishment of a dedicated team to monitor food and commodity supplies and review existing emergency protocols from relevant government agencies. This team will also incorporate experienced individuals from past crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, to enhance the plan’s effectiveness. These efforts underscore the sensitivity of the current situation and the necessity to ensure the availability of critical commodities and supplies.

In a related development, several shareholders of a cooperative society in the Hawalli Governorate have filed a complaint with the Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah. They expressed concern over the ministry’s decision to retain certain board members despite an investigation committee’s report indicating suspected violations.

The shareholders are surprised that these members continue to manage the society’s funds even after being referred to court. The allegations include non-compliance with financial protocols, improper cooperative purchasing practices, and contract regulation breaches. The shareholders are urging Minister Al-Huwailah to suspend these members’ administrative powers to protect the society’s funds and reputation until the case is resolved.

 In an administrative update, the Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Dr. Khaled Al-Ajmi, issued Administrative Decision No. 2386 of 2024. The decision appoints Talal Al-Khudair, Supervisor of the Research and Statistics Department in the Planning and Administrative Development Sector, to carry out the duties of the Director of the Department.

Today, the General Administration of Customs unveiled its latest initiative aimed at bolstering security measures across Kuwait’s customs ports. A state-of-the-art pallet inspection device has been introduced to enhance efforts in detecting and preventing smuggling activities that pose risks to national security.

The new device has been deployed initially at Shuwaikh Port (Gate 3 – Customs Inspection Ram) and Land Customs. This advanced technology integrates seamlessly into existing operational frameworks, following successful implementations at Doha Port and the Air Customs Department. This underscores the administration’s commitment to advancing its security infrastructure.

Manufactured by Smiths Detection, a renowned leader in security solutions, the new device represents cutting-edge technology renowned for its high-precision inspection capabilities. This enhancement aims to fortify Kuwait’s defenses against illicit activities, ensuring robust protection of the country’s borders and economic interests.

The introduction of this advanced inspection tool marks a significant stride in Kuwait’s efforts to maintain rigorous customs enforcement and safeguard national integrity. As global threats evolve, Kuwait remains steadfast in its dedication to leveraging innovative solutions to uphold security standards at its customs checkpoints.