The fraudulent messages claim that traffic violations, such as running a red light, come with a settlement order of KD4.500. However, the actual fine for such a violation is KD50. This discrepancy raises a red flag about the authenticity of the message.

Upon clicking the link provided in the message, recipients are likely to encounter numerous errors, both in the content and the link itself. The message and its associated link contain numerous fallacies, further confirming the fraudulent nature of the communication.

The Ministry of Interior has clarified that traffic fines can only be paid through official channels such as the Ministry of Interior's website or the Sahel application. Individuals should avoid making payments through any external links provided in suspicious messages.

Additionally, the Ministry of Interior does not send messages using international phone numbers. Any message received from an unfamiliar international number should be treated with caution, and the sender's identity must be verified.

Responding to fraudulent messages can lead to significant risks, including financial loss. The Ministry has warned that providing personal or banking details in response to such messages can result in the theft of funds from the recipient's bank account.

In a press statement, Al-Mutairi commended the efforts of Sheikha Amthal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, head of the Volunteer Work Center, and the committee members from government agencies and the private sector.

A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Ooredoo, owner of Fast Telecommunications Company and operator of the (51) digital platform. The presentation revealed a global celebration project featuring international stars, which will align with Kuwait's national holiday celebrations in February. The project will continue to engage the public through digital platforms, enhancing the festivities.

Additionally, the organizing team for the Kuwait Shopping Festival 2025 (Ya Hala) presented an update on the festival’s achievements. The visual presentation showcased the festival’s success since its inception, including impressive statistics and upcoming events.

The festivities will begin on February 2nd, with the flag-raising ceremony marking the start of the celebrations. Draws for prizes will commence on February 1st, followed by a series of events and shows.

• Over 9,000 participating companies and shops
• 300+ draw boxes deployed across the country
• Tourism and entertainment events catering to all age groups

These efforts aim to provide an inclusive and festive atmosphere for all participants, with something for everyone to enjoy.

Kuwait's Ambassador to India, Meshal Alshemali, commended India's cultural, religious, and ethnic diversity while celebrating its Republic Day and Constitution Day. Speaking to a news agency, he shared his impressions after attending the reception and military parade, marking the occasion at the invitation of Indian President Droupadi Murmu.

Ambassador Alshemali highlighted that the Republic Day celebrations showcased India's military advancements, technological innovation, and cultural diversity. The grand military parade demonstrated the capabilities of all military sectors while celebrating India's rich heritage and achievements in various fields, including technology and arts.

During his remarks, Ambassador Alshemali conveyed his well wishes to the Indian leadership and people for continued success and peaceful coexistence. He emphasized Kuwait’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, a relationship deeply rooted in mutual respect and shared interests.

Ambassador Alshemali referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuwait last December, which laid the groundwork for a more strategic partnership between the two countries. The visit fostered collaboration across political, trade, economic, defense, and cultural domains, further solidifying the relationship between Kuwait and India.

In closing, the ambassador reiterated Kuwait's desire to deepen bilateral cooperation with India, fostering initiatives that serve the interests of both nations and their peoples.

The Ministry of Education in Kuwait has launched a significant initiative to reduce the weight of school bags by up to 50% for the 2024-2025 academic year. This move aligns with the directives of Minister of Education, Jalal Al-Tabtabaei.

Several key sectors within the Ministry, including educational research, curricula, general education, and finance, have worked together to find solutions that balance educational efficiency with student safety.

One of the notable solutions is the printing of school books for the second semester of the 2024-2025 academic year, incorporating special specifications aimed at lightening the weight of school bags.

The Ministry has made the decision to divide second-semester textbooks into two parts. This change is in alignment with the curricula approved by the General Technical Guidance for all educational levels, ensuring quality educational content remains intact.

In addition to reducing bag weight, the Ministry has confirmed that all changes have been made without additional financial costs. The budget allocated for printing the school books has been adhered to, demonstrating the Ministry’s commitment to efficiency.

This initiative reflects the Ministry’s deep commitment to safeguarding the physical health of students by reducing the risks associated with carrying excessive loads. The goal is to create an environment that supports both the educational and health development of students.

The Supply and Warehouses Department has already started distributing the textbooks to schools at all educational levels. This distribution is happening according to a well-organized plan to ensure that schools are prepared for the second semester of 2024-2025.

According to a groundbreaking legal study conducted by lawyer Hawra Al-Habib, nearly 3,000 medical-related cases have been registered in Kuwait over the past three years. The majority of these cases involve violations in private medical clinics, with approximately 600 relating specifically to medical errors. Of these, about 60% stem from cosmetic surgeries performed in private clinics.

While medical error cases are challenging to prove, they are considered extremely serious due to their potential life-threatening consequences. In many cases, the damage caused cannot be reversed and may lead to severe complications if not addressed promptly. The study noted that some cases are resolved privately through waivers or agreements, often before reaching court.

Misdiagnosis is a major factor contributing to medical errors in Kuwait. According to the study, some individuals have been initially diagnosed with malignant diseases, only to discover later that they did not have any illness. There are also cases where patients traveled abroad based on incorrect diagnoses from Kuwaiti hospitals, only to find that they required no surgery. These misdiagnoses often result in claims for compensation.

Penalties for medical errors in Kuwait can include fines, imprisonment, and disciplinary actions. However, criminal punishment is only applied when the error is deemed intentional or caused by gross negligence. The study highlighted that proving medical error requires expert research, and investigations can take extensive time to conclude. Moreover, doctors rarely admit to making errors, as it could result in professional and legal consequences.

The most common causes of medical errors include infections acquired post-surgery, delayed diagnoses, incorrect medical prescriptions, and insufficient follow-up care. Additionally, some medical errors may be attributed to patients failing to follow medical instructions, leading to complications.

The Padma Awards are among India’s highest civilian honors, presented annually to celebrate exceptional contributions across various domains. These awards are categorized into three levels:

• Padma Vibhushan: For exceptional and distinguished service.
• Padma Bhushan: For distinguished service of a high order.
• Padma Shri: For distinguished service in any field.

Each year, the awards are announced on the eve of Republic Day and presented at a grand ceremonial function held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of the President of India.

In a significant recognition of her dedication to promoting yoga and wellness in the Gulf region, Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al Jaber Al Sabah of Kuwait has been conferred the esteemed Padma Shri Award by the Government of India.

Sheikha Shaikha has been instrumental in popularizing yoga as a holistic approach to health and well-being in Kuwait and its neighboring countries. Her initiatives have significantly boosted awareness about yoga's benefits, fostering cultural exchange between India and Kuwait.

This award underscores the increasing global recognition of yoga as a practice that enhances physical, mental, and spiritual health. It also highlights the deepening cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Kuwait, strengthened by Sheikha Shaikha’s efforts in the wellness sector.

For the year 2025, the President of India has approved a total of 139 Padma Awards, distributed as follows:

• 7 Padma Vibhushan
• 19 Padma Bhushan
• 113 Padma Shri

The list includes 23 women, 10 Foreigners/NRI/PIO recipients, and 13 posthumous honorees. These awards will be ceremoniously presented in March or April 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

The conferring of the Padma Shri Award on Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al Sabah signifies more than individual achievement; it highlights the strengthening bilateral relations between India and Kuwait. Through her advocacy of yoga, Sheikha Shaikha serves as a bridge connecting the two nations, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

The Padma Awards serve as a platform to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of individuals and promote the values of excellence and service across the globe.

Parents and students in Kuwait have expressed significant frustration over the decision to shut down the CBSE section of an Indian school in Abbasiya. The move has left the academic future of hundreds of students uncertain.

The school’s management recently announced that it plans to phase out the CBSE curriculum to introduce an American curriculum as part of its expansion. The administration cited the Ministry of Education's restrictions on operating multiple curricula within a single campus as the primary reason for this decision.

By the end of the academic year, students enrolled in the CBSE section are set to be transferred to a nearby campus. While the management assured parents that the new campus has adequate facilities and space, concerns about practicality and the disruption to students' education remain.

Many parents view the decision as abrupt and unsettling. A concerned parent commented,

“This decision seems to be driven by profit rather than the needs of students. It’s deeply unsettling for children who now face uncertainty about their education.”

The CBSE section, which has served the community for nearly a decade, has been a cornerstone of the school’s offerings. Parents argue that the sudden change undermines students’ stability and mental well-being, especially since they will need to adjust to new surroundings and routines.

The school’s management has emphasized that the transition process will be automatic and seamless. Parents have been given until the end of the month to either transfer their children to the new campus or withdraw them from the school entirely. However, the administration has stated that the decision to close the CBSE section is final.

This development has caused widespread concern within the Indian community in Kuwait. Parents are urging the school to reconsider its decision and calling on authorities to ensure that such significant changes prioritize students' educational needs over administrative and financial objectives.

As the April transition deadline draws closer, families remain in limbo about their children’s academic future. Many hope for a resolution that minimizes disruption and ensures a smooth educational journey for the affected students.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Technical Authority for Supervision of Goods and Price Determination, held a key meeting to assess the readiness of Kuwaiti markets for the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. This meeting, led by Faisal Al-Ansari, Director of the Commercial Control Department, was aimed at ensuring the smooth operation of key commercial sectors during Ramadan.

During the meeting, Al-Ansari met with the heads of the inspection and emergency departments to discuss plans for intensifying market oversight. Key areas of focus will include central markets, cooperative societies, meat and date shops, restaurants, sweet shops, and mills. The goal is to ensure that these businesses adhere to the Ministry’s approved price guidelines and maintain high food safety standards.

Intensive Inspections to Begin Before Ramadan

Al-Ansari announced that comprehensive inspection campaigns would be rolled out starting next week. These campaigns will focus on monitoring price stability and ensuring compliance with the ministry-approved pricing, especially as prices may fluctuate during Ramadan. Inspectors will compare prices before and after Ramadan to detect any irregularities.

Ensuring Food Safety During Girgean

In addition to price monitoring, Al-Ansari stressed the importance of inspecting sweet shops to ensure the safety of food items, particularly those prepared for the traditional Girgean celebration during Ramadan. The ministry is committed to protecting consumers by ensuring that all food products meet health and safety standards.

The Ministry of Electricity and Water has successfully completed approximately 30% of its maintenance work on power stations in preparation for the upcoming summer season. This statement was made by the Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Power Plants and Water Distillation, Engineer Haitham Al-Ali, during a mock evacuation exercise at the Doha West Power Plant conducted by the National Guard on Tuesday.

Al-Ali shared that while 30% of the maintenance on power stations has been finished, around 60% of the work on water stations is already completed. The ministry has devised a detailed plan and schedule to ensure the power stations and water facilities are ready in time for the summer. The work began in September and is expected to conclude by June of the upcoming year.

Energy Conservation Efforts

In light of the ongoing preparations, Al-Ali emphasized the importance of energy conservation. He urged citizens, government institutions, and private companies to play an active role in conserving energy. This collaborative effort is crucial to preventing power outages and ensuring a stable energy supply throughout the summer season.

Coordination with Gulf Interconnection Authority

The Ministry of Electricity and Water is also coordinating with the Gulf Interconnection Authority to enhance the stability of the energy grid. This coordination will facilitate the exchange of electrical energy, with approximately 1,000 megawatts expected to be transferred from neighboring Gulf countries, further bolstering Kuwait’s energy resources.

Kuwait's consumer price index (CPI), a primary indicator of inflation, rose by 2.5% in December 2024 compared to the same period in the previous year, according to the Central Administration of Statistics. On a monthly basis, inflation increased by 0.45%, reflecting the economic shifts during the period.

Food and Beverages Sector

The food and beverages group registered a 5% price surge, making it the largest contributor to overall inflation. Rising costs of essential goods in this category underscore the increasing strain on household budgets.

Clothing and Footwear

Prices in the clothing sector rose by 5.13%, driven by higher production and retail costs.

Healthcare

The health sector saw a 4% increase in prices, adding to the upward inflationary trend.

Education Services

Education costs experienced a moderate rise of 0.71%, reflecting increased fees for educational services.

Home Furnishings

The home furnishings group recorded a 3.51% rise, marking steady growth in household expenses.

Housing Services

Housing services prices increased by 0.9%, reflecting stable growth in the sector.

Entertainment and Culture

This group witnessed a 2.64% price rise, contributing moderately to overall inflation.

Restaurants and Hotels

Prices in the restaurants and hotels sector rose by 2.03%, indicating higher costs in dining and hospitality services.

Various Goods and Services

The various goods and services category surged by 5.43%, highlighting broader price pressures.

In contrast to other sectors, transportation costs declined by 1.47% year-on-year, offsetting some of the inflationary pressure. Despite rising fuel prices, the drop reflects a temporary reprieve in travel-related expenses.

When excluding the food and beverages sector, Kuwait's inflation rate stood at 2.02% in December 2024. This figure highlights the substantial impact of other sectors on overall inflation.

Kuwait's inflationary trends in December 2024 reveal a complex economic landscape shaped by rising costs in essential sectors like food, clothing, and healthcare, while the transportation sector provided a slight respite. Monitoring these trends remains crucial for assessing the country's economic health.

On Sunday afternoon, the General Fire Force responded swiftly to a building collapse that occurred during a demolition process in the Al-Shaab Al-Bahri area. Teams from the Salmiya, Hawally, and Search and Rescue Centers were immediately deployed to the site to assess the situation and ensure no one was trapped beneath the rubble.

Upon arrival, the Fire Force teams conducted a thorough search and inspection operation. The primary goal was to confirm that there were no individuals trapped under the debris, and fortunately, no significant injuries were reported. The operation was carried out efficiently and without delay, demonstrating the preparedness of the Fire Force units.

According to the Fire Force's official statement, there were no major injuries following the building collapse. The teams worked diligently to ensure the site was secure, and after the search operation, the scene was handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation and action.

The Fire Force's quick response and effective safety measures highlight the importance of readiness during demolition processes. The authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collapse to prevent future incidents and enhance safety protocols.

The Kuwait Ministry of Education has officially launched the first phase of its new digital fingerprint system, designed to track employee attendance and departure efficiently. This innovative system forms part of the Ministry's broader push for digital transformation in employee management, utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as facial recognition and GPS geolocation for precise and secure tracking.

The system eliminates the need for traditional fingerprint devices by allowing employees to log in and out using their smartphones. This modern approach leverages facial recognition to verify identity and GPS to confirm employees are at their designated work locations. According to the Ministry, the system’s user-friendly interface is highly secure, with encrypted data to ensure privacy and accuracy.

First Phase Implementation in Key Ministry Offices

The first phase of the digital attendance system is being implemented in the Ministry's general office, educational districts, and central administrations. This initial phase will help streamline attendance tracking and provide real-time reports on employee presence and departure times, contributing to improved operational efficiency.

Second Phase to Include Schools Across Kuwait

Following the first phase, the second phase will extend the digital system to school administrations and all Ministry employees, ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the Ministry of Education.

The Ministry emphasized that the new system offers several key benefits, including:

• Simplified Administrative Processes: Employees can log in and out of work directly through their smartphones, saving time and reducing manual entry.
• Cost Reduction: The system helps cut operational costs by eliminating the need for traditional fingerprint devices and paper-based attendance records.
• Increased Transparency and Efficiency: Instant access to attendance reports provides valuable data for monitoring employee performance.

This move aligns with the Ministry’s vision to create a modern, efficient work environment, contributing to the sustainability of institutional work. The goal of the first phase is to optimize operations within the Ministry’s central departments and offices, with the second phase aiming for full implementation across the educational sector.

By implementing this digital system, the Ministry of Education expects to enhance transparency in monitoring employee performance, reduce operational costs, and simplify the management of attendance data. The system will also support the Ministry's long-term goals of improving administrative service delivery and fostering a modernized educational environment.

The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) is conducting a review of its regulations for granting the profession of driver to consumer demand distribution companies in an effort to reduce traffic congestion and improve road safety in Kuwait. These regulations, which were implemented over a year ago, aim to set clear conditions and controls for vehicles and drivers employed by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) involved in delivery services.

Key Regulations for Delivery Companies

Understanding PAM’s Key Stipulations

• Driver-to-Vehicle Ratio: Each vehicle licensed for use must have 1.5 drivers assigned to it. This ensures that there is adequate coverage for the vehicle while minimizing fatigue among drivers.
• Vehicle Age Limit: Cars involved in delivery services must not be older than seven years. This regulation helps ensure that vehicles are safe and efficient for business operations.
• License Renewal Requirements: Failure to renew a vehicle’s license within the specified period will result in a suspension of the license until the legal status is rectified.
• Rental Vehicle Requirements: Rental vehicles must be sourced from approved companies or official car dealers. They cannot exceed three years of age, and the minimum rental period is set at one year.
• Rental Agreement Documentation: Companies must submit rental contracts, continuity certificates, and payment proofs every six months to maintain compliance.
• Motorcycle Usage: Motorcycles used for delivery must be manufactured within the last four years. They also require specific approvals from PAM’s Business Owners Service Needs Assessment Unit.
• Vehicle Inspection and Recordkeeping: PAM requires that companies provide a historical record of vehicles for review by PAM employees every six months to ensure compliance with vehicle standards.
• Bank Transfer and Rental Certificates: Companies must submit a bank transfer certificate every six months for rented vehicles and provide a valid certificate from the rental agency confirming ongoing agreements.

PAM’s Ongoing Review

Enhancing Road Safety and Traffic Management

PAM is currently refining these measures to further improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion. By revisiting and updating regulations, the authority aims to address challenges and ensure that vehicles and drivers meet the required safety standards.

Compliance and Inspections

How Companies Can Stay Compliant with PAM's Rules

All owners of vehicles used for delivery services must comply with the rules set by PAM, issue declarations of compliance, and allow for periodic inspections. Regular reviews of vehicle records and rental agreements will help ensure that all requirements are consistently met, contributing to safer roads and reduced traffic accidents.

In the 2025 edition of the World Cost of Living Index, Kuwait has emerged as the second least expensive Gulf country in terms of overall cost of living. The country ranked 12th in the Arab world and 80th globally out of 139 countries evaluated.

Understanding the World Cost of Living Index

The World Cost of Living Index is an annual report that compares the cost of living in various countries based on five primary criteria. These include average rental prices, overall cost of living (including rent), grocery prices, restaurant prices, and the purchasing power of the local currency, with New York City serving as the reference point.

Kuwait’s Cost of Living Breakdown

Kuwait scored 40.4 points on the overall index, meaning that the cost of living in Kuwait is 40.4% of the cost of living in New York City, which is used as the baseline with a score of 100 points.

Breakdown of Kuwait’s Rankings in Key Criteria:

• Rental Prices: 21.9% of the cost of New York City
• Overall Cost of Living (Including Rent): 32.2% of the cost of New York City
• Grocery Prices: 33.7% of the cost of New York City
• Restaurant Prices: 40.8% of the cost of New York City
• Purchasing Power: 174% (1.74 times higher than the US dollar in New York)

Kuwait’s Position in the Gulf Region

In the Gulf region, Kuwait ranks second for the lowest cost of living, following Oman. The ranking is as follows:

1. Oman
2. Kuwait
3. Saudi Arabia
4. Qatar
5. Bahrain
6. UAE

Kuwait’s Cost of Living Compared to Other Countries

Globally, countries with the lowest cost of living according to the index include:

• Pakistan
• Libya
• Egypt
• India
• Afghanistan
• Madagascar
• Bangladesh
• Russia
• Paraguay

On the other hand, countries with the highest cost of living are:

• Switzerland
• US Virgin Islands
• Iceland
• Bahamas
• Singapore
• Hong Kong (China)
• Barbados
• Norway
• Papua New Guinea
• Denmark

How the Cost of Living Affects Kuwait’s Residents

Despite the relatively lower cost of living, the purchasing power in Kuwait is notably higher. The local currency, the Kuwaiti dinar, is stronger than the US dollar, which significantly impacts daily expenses, making it easier for residents to maintain a higher standard of living.

Kuwait is currently experiencing a period of cold weather, influenced by a high-pressure system extending from Eastern Europe. The cold air mass is expected to result in cold daytime temperatures and very cold conditions at night, with a significant possibility of frost formation in agricultural and desert areas.

Forecast for Saturday: Cold with Cloudy Skies

According to Dharar Al-Ali, Director of the Meteorological Department, the weather on Saturday will be cold during the day, with northwesterly to variable winds blowing at speeds between 8 to 32 kilometers per hour. Light to moderate winds will occasionally become active, which will enhance the cold feeling, especially at night.

• Daytime Temperatures: 16 to 18°C
• Wind Speed: 8 to 32 km/h
• Sea Conditions: Light to moderate waves, ranging from 1 to 3 feet

At night, temperatures will drop significantly, and frost is expected in agricultural and desert regions.

• Nighttime Temperatures: 1 to 3°C
• Wind Speed: 6 to 28 km/h
• Sea Conditions: Light to moderate waves, ranging from 1 to 3 feet

Sunday's Forecast: Cold and Cloudy with Rain Chance

On Sunday, the cold weather will continue, with increasing cloud cover and a shift in wind direction. The winds will shift from variable to northwesterly, blowing at speeds of 8 to 30 km/h.

• Daytime Temperatures: 17 to 19°C
• Wind Speed: 8 to 30 km/h
• Sea Conditions: Light to moderate waves, ranging from 1 to 3 feet

At night, the weather will remain cold, with a chance of scattered light rain later in the evening.

• Nighttime Temperatures: 6 to 8°C
• Wind Speed: 8 to 28 km/h
• Sea Conditions: Light to moderate waves, ranging from 1 to 3 feet

Monday's Forecast: Cold with Scattered Rain and Thunder Possible

Monday’s weather will be cold with partly cloudy to cloudy skies, and there is a chance of scattered rain. Winds will be southeasterly to variable, blowing at speeds of 10 to 35 km/h.

• Daytime Temperatures: 17 to 19°C
• Wind Speed: 10 to 35 km/h
• Sea Conditions: Light to moderate waves, ranging from 1 to 4 feet

At night, the weather will continue to be cold with scattered rain, potentially accompanied by thunder.

• Nighttime Temperatures: 11 to 13°C
• Wind Speed: 10 to 40 km/h
• Sea Conditions: Light to moderate waves, ranging from 2 to 6 feet

Precautions and Recommendations

Al-Ali advised citizens and residents to stay updated on weather conditions by visiting the Kuwait Meteorological Department’s official website, as well as their app and social media channels (KuwaitMet), to ensure they take the necessary precautions.

The Kuwait Municipality has issued a new circular to regulate the transportation and disposal of damaged and used tires. This move comes in line with the Cabinet’s decision from October 29, aiming to streamline the waste management process for tires and ensure proper recycling methods are followed.

Key Regulations for Transporters of Damaged and Used Tires

Article 1: Transporting Tires to Designated Recycling Factories

According to the new circular, damaged and used tires must be transported to specific recycling factories located in Salmi. These factories are marked by precise coordinates and a QR code to ensure proper disposal.

Article 2: Tire Transport Statement (Manifest) Requirement

Transporters must complete and submit the tire transport statement (manifest) provided by the municipality. This form includes critical details needed for proper record-keeping and monitoring.

Article 3: 24/7 Availability of Recycling Factories

The recycling factories in Salmi will be open around the clock to accept damaged and used tires, providing convenience for transporters to deliver the materials at any time.

Article 4: Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with the transport regulations will result in fines and penalties as per the applicable waste management laws and regulations.

Article 5: Monthly Reporting Requirements

At the end of each month, transporters are required to submit a copy of the tire transport statement (manifest) to the Kuwait Municipality’s Environmental Affairs Department located in Masayel.

Article 6: Prohibition of Unlicensed Transporters

Transporting damaged and used tires through unlicensed waste carriers is strictly prohibited. Only waste carriers approved by the municipality are allowed to handle these materials.

Article 7: Complaints and Inquiries

Individuals with any complaints or inquiries related to the tire transportation regulations can directly contact the Kuwait Municipality for further assistance.