The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) has inaugurated a new shelter in Hawally for male expatriate workers, reinforcing Kuwait’s commitment to labor rights and human dignity. The facility offers essential services, including healthcare, housing, and legal assistance, ensuring proper support for workers facing challenges.

Acting Deputy Director General of the Manpower Protection Sector, Dr. Fahad Al-Murad, highlighted that the shelter meets international standards and accommodates 200 to 300 workers. It provides legal aid, medical care, and secure living conditions while coordinating with relevant authorities to address workers’ concerns.

Workers can seek shelter voluntarily or be referred by government agencies, diplomatic missions, or civil society organizations. The initiative aligns with Kuwait’s commitment to protecting expatriate laborers, particularly those in vulnerable conditions.

Upon arrival, the Ministry of Interior assists in verifying workers’ identities. If a worker lacks identification, fingerprinting is conducted to determine their status. In cases involving legal disputes or absconding reports, authorities coordinate to resolve issues appropriately.

For workers involved in labor disputes, the shelter offers temporary accommodation until the matter is settled amicably or through legal proceedings. Workers can either return to their home countries or pursue their claims through the judiciary.

The shelter also extends its services to expatriates violating residency and labor laws. Legal coordination with the Ministry of Interior ensures their stay until legal matters are resolved, particularly in cases involving complaints or disputes.

The facility follows a national referral system for suspected human trafficking cases. If indications of human trafficking emerge during interviews, workers are referred to criminal investigations. Confirmed cases proceed through judicial channels, ensuring justice and protection for affected individuals.

Dr. Al-Murad emphasized that the shelter is a civil institution, not a detention facility. Workers are free to leave following specific procedures, except in cases involving legal matters, which are managed by the Ministry of Interior.

The shelter also accommodates workers with juvenile-age children in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Supreme Council for the Family. Plans are underway to transfer female workers to the Hawally shelter while male workers remain in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh.

The opening of the shelter underscores Kuwait’s dedication to upholding human rights, preventing labor exploitation, and combatting human trafficking and migrant smuggling. Through a comprehensive strategy of prevention, protection, legal prosecution, and international cooperation, Kuwait continues to enhance labor welfare and reinforce its global commitment to fair treatment of expatriate workers.

In a groundbreaking debut in Kuwait, BotLab Dynamics lit up the night sky with a mesmerizing 1500-drone show at the Ya Hala Shopping Festival 2025. Building on their success from Oman’s Sultan Accession Day, the performance celebrated Kuwait’s rich cultural heritage and the festival’s national significance.

Event Details

Festival Dates:
January 21 – March 31, 2025
The Ya Hala Shopping Festival is the largest shopping celebration in Kuwait’s history, featuring over 70 days of sales promotions, giveaways, and a prize pool exceeding $8 million—including 120 luxury cars.

Drone Show Schedule:

• 2 February 2025: Al Shaheed Park
• 6 February 2025: Al Khairan Mall
• 14 February 2025: Marina Crescent
• 22 February 2025: Sulaibikhat Sports Club
• Next Show: 25th or 26th February (Location to be announced)

Drone Show Highlights

BotLab Dynamics’ inaugural performance in Kuwait was designed with twelve distinct formations that paid tribute to national pride and heritage:

• Kuwait National Flag: The show opened with a radiant formation showcasing the Kuwaiti flag, symbolizing unity and national pride, enhanced by an orchestral soundtrack.
• Falcon in Flight: A soaring falcon symbolized resilience, transitioning into the Kuwait emblem to reflect the nation’s enduring spirit.
• Desert: A camel traversing a vast desert formation evoked Kuwait’s geographical roots and natural beauty.
• Traditional Dhow Boats: Iconic boats gracefully glided across the sky, honoring Kuwait’s maritime heritage and its historic trade links.
• Kuwait Towers: Modernity met tradition as the Kuwait Towers illuminated the sky, representing growth and prosperity.
• “YA HALA” Display: Glowing Arabic and English letters spelled out “Ya Hala,” extending a warm welcome to all and celebrating Kuwait’s renowned hospitality.
• Shopping Bags Transforming: Reflecting the vibrant commerce of the festival, shopping bags morphed into the event’s logo, capturing the essence of the celebration.
• Beautiful Kuwait: The final tribute was a visual homage to Kuwait’s cultural richness and natural beauty, leaving the audience inspired and united.

Upcoming Shows and Future Prospects

Following the initial success, BotLab Dynamics will extend its collaboration with the Ya Hala Shopping Festival. With three shows already completed in Kuwait, additional drone performances are planned across the country. Details on upcoming dates and locations will be revealed shortly, offering both locals and visitors more opportunities to experience this cutting-edge visual storytelling.

This series of drone shows not only reinforces BotLab Dynamics’ position as a global leader in drone light shows but also highlights Kuwait’s innovative approach to national celebrations.

Technical and Engagement Enhancements

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• Image Optimization: Use high-quality images or video clips from the drone shows with descriptive filenames and alt text featuring keywords like "Kuwait drone show" and "Ya Hala Shopping Festival 2025."
• Internal and External Linking: Include internal links to related articles on Kuwait events and external links to authoritative sources to enhance credibility and provide additional context.

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The spectacular drone show by BotLab Dynamics at the Ya Hala Shopping Festival 2025 marks a new chapter in Kuwait’s celebration of culture, innovation, and national pride. With a meticulously orchestrated display of 1500 drones, the event captivated audiences and set the stage for more visually stunning performances. Stay tuned to kuwiatlocal.com for further updates on upcoming shows and more exciting stories from Kuwait.

Bank officials in Kuwait are currently reviewing a proposal to adjust customer service hours during the upcoming month of Ramadan. The proposed plan suggests introducing an evening shift, which would allow banks to operate in two shifts instead of the current single shift.

According to sources, several banks have submitted proposals to modify operating hours for Ramadan. If approved, morning hours will remain unchanged from last year, operating from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Additionally, an evening shift is proposed from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Last Ramadan, bank branches in shopping malls followed a two-period schedule, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Meanwhile, branches at Kuwait International Airport operated 24 hours to accommodate travelers.

Opinions on the proposed changes remain divided among banking officials. Some banks advocate for maintaining last year’s schedule, emphasizing that customers can conveniently manage transactions through mobile banking apps and ATMs. However, others argue that extending banking hours would better serve customers, particularly those who find it more convenient to visit bank branches in the evening.

Discussions among financial institutions are ongoing, with a final decision expected before the start of Ramadan. The move aims to balance customer convenience with operational efficiency while ensuring that banking services remain accessible during the holy month.

Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has introduced new penalties aimed at improving road safety and environmental protection, effective from April 22, 2025. The updated regulations target vehicles that violate roadworthiness and environmental standards, ensuring safer and cleaner roads.

Under the new measures, vehicles will face strict penalties for the following violations:

• Emitting excessive noise, thick smoke, or unpleasant odors.
• Transporting hazardous or flammable cargo that may spill or leak onto the road.
• Operating in unsafe conditions due to accidents, unbalanced tires, or mechanical defects affecting roadworthiness.

Motorists found guilty of these violations can settle their fines by paying 75 KWD. However, severe cases referred to the court could result in harsher penalties, including:

• Fines ranging between 150 KWD and 300 KWD.
• A prison sentence of up to three months.
• Both fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation.

The Ministry of Interior is urging all motorists to adhere to the new regulations to enhance road safety and minimize environmental harm. Drivers are encouraged to maintain their vehicles properly and follow traffic laws to avoid penalties.

Kuwait's Civil Service Commission (CSC) has formally requested the Ministry of Finance to conduct a comprehensive financial study evaluating the budgetary implications of recent amendments to employee cash allowances and leave entitlements. These modifications, previously approved by the Civil Service Council, aim to reduce government financial liabilities and improve fiscal efficiency.

The study will assess the projected cost savings of each amendment separately to ensure they align with Kuwait’s financial strategy.

Key Amendments and Financial Implications

1. Reduction in Cash Allowance for Service Termination

• Previously, employees were entitled to receive a cash allowance for up to 180 days of unused leave upon termination.
• The new amendment caps this benefit at two years’ worth of leave balance instead.
• The financial study will analyze expected savings resulting from this reduction.

2. Mandatory Use of Annual Leave

• Employees are now required to take at least 15 days of periodic leave annually.
• Unused leave from this quota will be automatically deducted from their balance.
• The financial assessment will determine the impact of this change on government leave expenditures.

3. Reduction in Maximum Leave Accumulation

• The permissible accumulation of unused periodic leave has been reduced from five years to two years.
• Any unused leave beyond this limit will be forfeited.
• The study will estimate the cost reduction resulting from this measure.

4. Elimination of Cash Allowance for Unused Leave During Service

• Previously, employees could claim a cash allowance for accumulated leave once every 10 years.
• The new amendment removes this entitlement entirely.
• The Ministry of Finance will assess the long-term budget impact of this cancellation.

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The Civil Service Bureau confirmed in an official letter dated February 16 that this financial study is a preliminary step before the amendments are formally resubmitted to the Civil Service Council for final approval. The results will directly shape the final decree governing leave policies and cash allowances.

The Bureau emphasized that conducting this study is essential to ensuring financial sustainability while maintaining fair public sector employment policies.

The General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers has directed the Legal Affairs Committee to reassess the amendments before full implementation. As part of this process, the Civil Service Bureau, Ministry of Finance, and Fatwa and Legislation Department will collaborate to develop a comprehensive legislative proposal incorporating recommendations from the review committee.

These amendments were first approved in Civil Service Council Meeting No. 12 (2024) on October 24, 2024. However, their full implementation depends on the outcome of the financial study, which will determine their economic viability.

This development signals a major shift in Kuwait’s public sector employment policies, reinforcing the government’s commitment to budget efficiency while maintaining equitable labor standards.

The Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy has announced scheduled maintenance on multiple power transformer stations, leading to partial power outages in 26 areas, including Al-Sabah Health Region.

The power cuts will last four hours daily from February 9 to February 15, 2025, starting at 8:00 AM. Affected areas include Mahboula, Dasma, Sabah Al-Salem, Salwa, Fahaheel, Jahra, and others.

The Ministry has also signed a memorandum of understanding with a private company to establish a 300-megawatt power generation station under the independent supplier system.

Key Highlights of the Agreement:

• Marks Kuwait’s first independent power generation initiative.
• Aims to reduce state expenses on building new power plants.
• Ensures faster project execution with private sector involvement.
• Supports Vision 2035 by boosting renewable energy integration.

While experts like former Minister of Electricity and Water, Mohammad Bushehri, have praised this initiative, concerns remain about potential private sector control over electricity and water pricing.

Renewable energy expert Suad Al-Hussein emphasized the need for clear legal frameworks to regulate private participation, particularly in solar energy production. She stressed that approving an energy purchase law for solar providers could create new job opportunities in electrical engineering and renewable energy sectors.

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, the Commercial Control Department at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched intensive inspections across markets and shops in Kuwait. These inspections aim to maintain market stability, prevent price manipulation, and protect consumer rights.

The Ministry has outlined key objectives for these inspections:

• Ensuring price stability by monitoring fluctuations and enforcing compliance with pricing regulations.
• Preventing price manipulation and unethical profiteering amid increased demand during Ramadan.
• Protecting consumer rights by ensuring the availability of essential goods at fair prices.

The Kuwaiti government remains dedicated to safeguarding consumers from unjustified price hikes. By closely monitoring businesses, authorities aim to deter retailers from exploiting the seasonal surge in demand. The Commercial Control Department has urged businesses to comply with pricing regulations and avoid deceptive practices.

Regular inspections play a vital role in:

• Identifying violations and imposing penalties on non-compliant businesses.
• Ensuring sufficient stock levels to meet consumer demand.
• Monitoring the quality of products to uphold health and safety standards.

Consumers are encouraged to report any cases of unjustified price hikes or fraudulent activities. The Ministry has set up hotlines and digital platforms where customers can file complaints, ensuring swift action against violations.

By maintaining transparency and accountability, the Ministry aims to create a fair and stable market environment during Ramadan.

The General Traffic Department has intensified its enforcement of speed limits by summoning drivers caught exceeding legal limits through traffic cameras. As part of its measures, authorities will impound violators’ vehicles for 60 days.

This initiative aligns with Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to enhance traffic control, minimize reckless driving, and ensure the safety of all road users. The department reaffirmed its commitment to strictly enforcing the law to protect lives and property.

Starting April 22, 2025, drivers who exceed the speed limit will face harsher legal consequences, including:

• Prison sentences ranging from one to three years
• Fines between KD 600 and KD 1,000
• Court referrals for severe violations

In addition, reconciliation fines will range between KD 70 and KD 150, depending on the extent to which a driver exceeds the specified speed limit.

The implementation of these penalties reflects Kuwait’s dedication to reducing traffic violations and ensuring safer roads. Authorities urge all motorists to comply with traffic regulations to avoid penalties and contribute to a safer driving environment.

The Ministry of Education has launched the "Excellence Award for School Libraries" in collaboration with the Kuwait Libraries and Information Association. This initiative aims to encourage the development of school libraries by recognizing outstanding efforts in enhancing educational and cultural services.

According to Adel Al-Harbi, Acting Director of the Libraries Department, the award is open to all educational levels, including:

• Kindergarten
• Primary Schools
• Middle Schools
• High Schools
• Religious Schools
• Special Education Schools

Schools meeting the set evaluation criteria are encouraged to apply before the March 3 deadline. The arbitration process will take place from April 2 to April 20, during which a panel of experts will assess the libraries based on predefined standards.

One outstanding library from each educational stage will be selected for recognition. A special award ceremony, under the patronage of Education Minister Sayed Jalal Al-Tabtabaei, will honor the winners for their contribution to cultural and community engagement.

The primary goal of the award is to:

• Enhance the quality of school libraries
• Encourage competition among schools to improve their library services
• Support educational curricula through enriched resources
• Promote cultural awareness and community participation

By introducing this initiative, the Ministry of Education aims to elevate the standards of school libraries in Kuwait, making them a hub of knowledge and learning for students. Schools interested in participating should ensure compliance with the evaluation criteria and submit their applications before the deadline.

The Technical Committee of the Municipal Council has referred a proposal from the Governor of the Capital, Sheikh Abdullah Salem Al-Ali, to the municipality's executive body. The proposal suggests establishing a mechanism to regulate calorie limits in restaurants and cafés, aiming to promote healthier food options. The committee has requested a detailed study on the feasibility and implementation of such regulations.

During the meeting, chaired by Munira Al-Amir, the committee also addressed a support request seeking approval to include pharmacies in fuel stations as part of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) funded by the National Fund for SME Development. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility to essential pharmaceutical services while supporting local entrepreneurs.

The committee approved a reorganization plan for a section of Plot 3 in the East area, focusing on restructuring the remaining portion of a specific property. The reorganization aligns with ongoing urban development efforts to optimize land use in Kuwait.

A proposal submitted by Abdul Latif Al-Da’i and Sherifa Al-Shalfan regarding the utilization of water collection basins and rainwater drainage channels was postponed. The committee deemed it necessary to conduct further studies before making a decision on the matter.

In addition, the committee reviewed a scientific report outlining a strategic vision for the future of tourism in Kuwait. The report highlights key areas for development and investment to position Kuwait as a competitive tourism destination in the region.

Conclusion: The Technical Committee’s latest meeting covered a wide range of critical topics, from public health initiatives to small business support and urban planning. As Kuwait continues to refine its policies, these discussions reflect a broader effort to enhance the country’s economic and social landscape.

The General Traffic Department in Kuwait has intensified its efforts to enhance road safety by summoning drivers caught by traffic control cameras for exceeding speed limits. In a decisive move, authorities are preparing to enforce stringent legal measures, including impounding vehicles for 60 days. This initiative aims to strengthen traffic law enforcement and reduce reckless driving, ensuring the safety of road users.

Effective April 22, 2025, drivers who exceed speed limits will face severe legal repercussions. Upon referral to the court, penalties may include:

• Imprisonment ranging from one to three years
• Fines between 600 to 1,000 Kuwaiti dinars
• Either of the above penalties, at the court’s discretion

Additionally, a reconciliation order will be imposed, ranging from 70 to 150 dinars, depending on the road’s speed limit and the extent of the violation.

The General Traffic Department has reaffirmed its dedication to enforcing traffic laws to protect lives and property. The stricter penalties are expected to deter speeding violations and promote safer driving habits across Kuwait. Authorities urge motorists to adhere to speed limits and traffic regulations to avoid severe penalties.

Brigadier Ali Al-Ustadh, Director of Operations Department in the Public Security Sector at the Interior Ministry, has announced the establishment of 23 fixed security checkpoints across all governorates in preparation for Kuwait’s National and Liberation Day celebrations. These security measures align with directives from Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, emphasizing heightened vigilance.

During a televised interview, Brigadier Al-Ustadh revealed that three primary security checkpoints have been strategically positioned at:

• Gulf Street (opposite the Scientific Center)
• Bneid Al-Gar
• Julai’ah

Additionally, extra security personnel will be deployed in residential areas to ensure comprehensive coverage. These checkpoints are equipped to handle medical emergencies, featuring coordinated efforts with Kuwait Fire Force (KFF) and Kuwait Municipality, ensuring swift response to incidents.

Brigadier General Mohammed Bader Al-Gharib, Director of Public Relations at KFF, has reaffirmed the Fire Force’s readiness for the 64th National Day and 34th Liberation Day celebrations. According to a press release, the KFF has implemented strict fire safety protocols to safeguard celebration sites and gathering areas.

In addition, KFF has commenced preparations for the holy month of Ramadan, ensuring the safety of mosques and prayer halls, particularly during Taraweeh prayers, which attract a large number of worshippers. Fire safety equipment at these locations is being inspected to maintain operational efficiency.

To ensure seamless safety enforcement, 18 strategic security sites have been designated across Kuwait’s six governorates. The KFF has deployed:

• Fixed security points at celebration and gathering sites
• Rapid intervention units for emergency response
• Standby alerts for all fire stations to enhance preparedness

Furthermore, the Prevention Sector has conducted thorough safety inspections at all designated celebration venues to ensure compliance with fire prevention measures. Brigadier General Al-Gharib has urged citizens and residents to maintain clear access routes for firefighting vehicles, as congestion at event sites may hinder emergency response efforts.

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has emphasized the importance of adhering to the new decision regarding official working hours during the holy month of Ramadan. The decision introduces a flexible working system with four and a half hours for both morning and evening shifts.

As per the CSC's decision, work during Ramadan will begin from 8:30 AM and end by 10:30 AM. The commission clarified that government agencies can determine the exact start and end times based on work needs. For the evening shift, the working hours will also be four and a half hours, with a 15-minute grace period at the start of the shift, and a similar grace period for female employees at the end of their workday. All evening shifts must conclude by 6:45 PM.

The Civil Service Commission reiterated that the fingerprint verification system must continue to be used during Ramadan to ensure compliance with the established rules and regulations regarding official working hours. This system plays a crucial role in monitoring attendance and work schedules across government agencies.

The commission has stressed the importance of government agencies adhering strictly to the prescribed working hours, including the evening shifts. It is essential that all agencies follow the guidelines to maintain an efficient and consistent work environment during Ramadan.

A team from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, including the Commercial Control Department and the Technical Authority for Supervision of Goods and Price Determination, conducted an inspection tour in Shuwaikh Industrial. The focus was on date markets, as well as coffee, tea, and food mills.

This initiative, led by Director of Control Faisal Al-Ansari, is a part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to regulate prices and ensure compliance with standards.

The campaign uncovered several violations, resulting in nine citations and seizure reports against businesses. These included discrepancies in the weights of coffee products, missing price tags on food items, failure to indicate the country of origin, and the display of expired goods.

The shops involved will be referred to the Commercial Prosecution for further investigation.

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has also secured pledges from shops to avoid raising prices during this time.

The ministry’s Price Authority Department has actively ensured that businesses comply with the pledge to maintain price stability, especially during the peak shopping season for food items.

Kuwait has updated its passport issuance and renewal fees with the introduction of Ministerial Resolution No. 180 of 2025, issued by Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef. This resolution amends Ministerial Resolution No. 20/1971 and outlines changes in fees for services handled by the General Administration of Nationality and Travel Documents.

Issuance and Renewal Charges at Airports

Under the revised resolution, two new clauses (8 and 9) have been added to Article 1 of Ministerial Resolution No. 20/1971, introducing the following fees for passport issuance and renewal at airports:

• Passport valid for five years: 13 Kuwaiti dinars
• Passport valid for ten years: 16 Kuwaiti dinars

According to Article 2 of the resolution, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior is responsible for enforcing these changes. The amendments will officially come into effect upon publication in the Official Gazette.

This move aligns with Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to streamline travel document services and ensure efficient processing at airport facilities.

For further insights into Kuwait’s travel policies and administrative changes, refer to:

• Recent updates on visa regulations and renewal procedures
• Changes in residency renewal fees and travel document policies

Kuwait's Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi, has announced an update to the country's drug and psychotropic substance regulations, reinforcing measures to safeguard public health and prevent substance abuse. The ministerial decision involves classifying additional substances under the legal framework governing narcotics and psychotropics, ensuring stricter control over their circulation and use.

New Additions to Controlled Substance Lists

As part of the updated regulatory measures, the Ministry of Health has made the following amendments:

List No. 1 (Law No. 74/1983 - Drug Control)

• Butonitazene has been added due to its potential for misuse and high-risk effects.

List No. 2 (Law No. 45/1987 - Psychotropic Substances Regulation)

• Chloromethcathinone
• Dipentylone
• Fluorodischloroketamine
• Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL)

List No. 4 (Law No. 45/1987 - Psychotropic Substances Regulation)

• Bromazolam has been added following scientific and legislative recommendations to control its misuse.

The Ministry of Health reiterated its commitment to continuously updating drug control laws to align with global scientific advancements and ensure public protection. This move reinforces Kuwait’s efforts to:

• Regulate the pharmaceutical market and prevent drug abuse.
• Monitor emerging narcotic and psychotropic substances for potential risks.
• Enforce stringent legal measures to combat illicit drug distribution.
• Enhance public safety measures in line with best international practices.

The ministry emphasized that these regulatory updates form part of its strategic vision to curb drug abuse, ensure proper medical usage of controlled substances, and promote public health security.

The Ministry of Interior's General Traffic Department has announced strict enforcement measures against vehicles that violate safety and durability regulations and produce excessive noise on the roads. Authorities stress that these actions are taken to ensure road safety and curb disturbances affecting public comfort.

In its statement, the MoI confirmed that any vehicle found breaching safety standards or emitting disturbing noises will be impounded for 60 days in the designated traffic impoundment garage. Additionally, legal measures will be imposed on the driver.

The ministry emphasized that these regulations aim to protect road users, minimize traffic-related risks, and address negative behaviors that disrupt social harmony.

To enforce these regulations, the MoI has launched intensive traffic campaigns targeting violators. Security forces will be deployed across key roads and highways to monitor compliance with traffic laws. The ministry urges all motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations to avoid penalties.

The Ministry of Interior reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, highlighting that these measures align with broader efforts to enhance Kuwait’s traffic system. Authorities continue to work towards reducing accidents, noise pollution, and reckless driving incidents.

India's recent overhaul of its income tax legislation introduces significant changes that directly impact Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), especially those residing in Gulf Countries such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. These nations are known for their absence of personal income tax, making the new Indian tax provisions particularly relevant for NRIs.

Key Changes in the Income Tax Legislation

1. Deemed Residency Provision

Criteria: An Indian citizen earning more than ₹15 lakh (₹1.5 million) from Indian sources and not liable to pay tax in any other country will be deemed a resident of India for tax purposes.

Implication: NRIs in countries without personal income tax may fall under this provision, making them liable for Indian taxation on their global income.

2. Residency Determination Based on Physical Presence

Standard Rule: An individual spending 182 days or more in India during a financial year is considered a resident.

Alternative Condition: Spending 60 days or more in India during a financial year and 365 days or more over the preceding four years also qualifies an individual as a resident.

Exceptions for NRIs:

• For Indian citizens or persons of Indian origin visiting India, the 60-day requirement is extended to 182 days.
• If such individuals have Indian-sourced income exceeding ₹15 lakh, the threshold is reduced to 120 days.

Impact on NRIs in Gulf Countries

Deemed Residency: NRIs in GCC countries, due to the absence of personal income tax, may be classified as residents in India if their Indian-sourced income exceeds ₹15 lakh. This classification subjects them to Indian taxation on their global income, potentially leading to higher tax liabilities.

Residency Based on Stay Duration: NRIs visiting India must monitor their stay duration. Exceeding 120 days in India during a financial year, coupled with Indian income over ₹15 lakh, will classify them as residents for tax purposes.

Examples

1. Deemed Residency Example

Scenario: An Indian citizen residing in the UAE, earning ₹20 lakh from investments in India and ₹30 lakh from employment in the UAE.

Tax Scenario: Since the UAE has no personal income tax, the individual is not liable to pay tax there. Under the new bill, because their Indian income exceeds ₹15 lakh, they are deemed a resident of India. Consequently, their total income of ₹50 lakh (₹20 lakh from India + ₹30 lakh from the UAE) becomes taxable in India.

2. Residency Based on Stay Duration Example

Scenario: An NRI residing in Saudi Arabia visits India for 130 days in a financial year and earns ₹18 lakh from Indian sources.

Tax Scenario: The individual's stay exceeds 120 days, and their Indian income is above ₹15 lakh. Therefore, they are classified as a resident for tax purposes, making their global income subject to Indian taxation.

3. Income Below Threshold Example

Scenario: An Indian citizen residing in Kuwait earns ₹14 lakh from investments in India and ₹30 lakh from employment in Kuwait.

Tax Scenario: Since the individual's Indian income is below ₹15 lakh, the deemed residency provision does not apply. Assuming they spend less than 182 days in India during the financial year, they are considered an NRI. Thus, only the ₹14 lakh earned in India is taxable in India, while the ₹30 lakh earned in Kuwait is not subject to Indian taxation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q1: How does the new Income Tax Bill affect NRIs earning over ₹15 lakh in India?
• A1: NRIs earning more than ₹15 lakh from Indian sources may be classified as "residents" for tax purposes, making their global income taxable in India.
• Q2: What is the "deemed resident" provision in the new tax bill?
• A2: Indian citizens earning over ₹15 lakh from Indian sources and not liable to pay tax in any other country will be deemed residents of India for tax purposes.
• Q3: How will capital gains from the Indian share market affect my tax residency status?
• A3: If your capital gains from the Indian share market exceed ₹15 lakh and you're not taxed in your resident country, you may be deemed a resident in India, subjecting your global income to Indian taxation.
• Q4: How can NRIs manage their tax obligations under the new rules?
• A4: NRIs should monitor their stay duration in India, assess their global income, and consult with tax professionals to ensure compliance and effective tax planning.

The new Income Tax Bill significantly impacts NRIs in Gulf countries without personal income tax. It's essential for affected individuals to understand these changes, assess their financial situations, and seek professional guidance to manage their tax obligations effectively.

In a significant step towards modernizing education, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Education has announced the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a topic in the second part of the computer development textbook for Tenth-grade secondary students. This initiative aims to equip students with essential AI knowledge and prepare them for an increasingly technology-driven world.

During an online introductory session on the "Teams" platform, Mona Salem Awad, General Technical Supervisor of Computers, emphasized that integrating AI into the curriculum is crucial for keeping pace with technological advancements. She highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring students understand AI fundamentals and applications, enabling them to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Awad stressed that AI education is not only about technology adoption but also about fostering innovation and creativity. By introducing AI concepts early, students will be better prepared for the evolving job market, which increasingly demands AI-related skills. She also noted that this initiative aligns with the Ministry’s broader goal of enhancing digital literacy among students.

The Ministry of Education aims to create an interactive learning environment that integrates modern technology at all educational levels. Awad reiterated that incorporating AI into the curriculum is part of a larger educational strategy to strengthen students' digital skills and adaptability in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

By embedding Artificial Intelligence into the school curriculum, Kuwait takes a proactive approach to preparing future generations for the challenges and opportunities presented by AI-driven advancements.