India has crossed a major economic milestone, overtaking Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, according to figures outlined in New Delhi’s latest end-of-year economic review.

The development underscores the country’s sustained growth momentum and strengthens expectations that India could soon rise even further in the global economic hierarchy.

The review estimates India’s gross domestic product at approximately $4.18 trillion, placing it ahead of Japan and behind only the United States, China, and Germany, reports dw.com

Based on current growth trajectories, Indian policymakers believe the country is on track to surpass Germany within the next three years, potentially securing third place worldwide.

Economic expansion has accelerated faster than earlier projections. Real GDP growth reached 8.2 percent in the second quarter of the 2025–26 fiscal year, the strongest performance in six quarters.

This rebound has been supported by resilient domestic demand, with private consumption emerging as a key driver despite lingering global trade uncertainties.

India’s export sector has also shown renewed strength. Merchandise exports climbed steadily through the year, reaching more than $38 billion in November, buoyed by strong demand for engineering products, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and refined petroleum goods. Officials say this diversification has helped cushion the economy from external shocks.

The Reserve Bank of India recently raised its full-year growth forecast to 7.3 percent, reflecting confidence in the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals. Government economists described the current phase as a rare moment of balance — robust growth paired with relatively contained inflation — supported by healthier corporate balance sheets, steady credit availability, and years of structural reform.

Looking ahead, the review projects India’s GDP could expand to $7.3 trillion by 2030, positioning the country as the world’s third-largest economy, trailing only the US and China. However, officials caution that headline economic size masks deeper challenges.

Despite its growing aggregate output, India’s per capita income remains far below that of advanced economies. Average income levels are a fraction of those in Japan and Germany, highlighting the scale of development still required to translate national growth into widespread prosperity.

Demographics add both promise and pressure. More than a quarter of India’s 1.4 billion citizens are between the ages of 10 and 26, making job creation a central policy challenge.

The government acknowledges that sustaining growth will depend on generating quality employment capable of absorbing a rapidly expanding workforce.

Recent policy measures, including tax relief and labor reforms, are aimed at sustaining consumption and improving competitiveness. Yet risks remain, including currency pressures, global trade tensions, and the need to secure long-term investment.

Still, officials argue that India’s trajectory reflects a structural shift rather than a temporary surge—marking a decisive step in the country’s ambition to emerge as a leading global economic power by the centenary of its independence in 2047.

The Kuwait Human Rights Association (KHRA) has launched its first electronic service through the government’s “Sahel” application, introducing the “Submit a Complaint” feature as part of efforts to enhance accessibility and digital transformation.

The new service enables users to file human rights complaints directly via the KHRA services menu on the “Sahel” platform, reports Al-Rai daily.

Complainants can provide full details of their case and upload supporting documents electronically, without the need for in-person visits.

The Association said the initiative aims to simplify procedures, strengthen communication with the public, and ensure efficient handling of complaints in line with modern digital service standards.

Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) has confirmed the enforcement of significant fines under the new residency law, which includes penalties for failing to register newborns and obtain residence permits on time.

Under the updated residency law, failure to register a newborn within the legally defined period can result in a fine of up to KD 2,000, emphasizing the government’s commitment to accurate and timely registration of residents and dependents. The law has come into effect as of Dec 23, according to local news reports.

The Ministry’s executive regulations under Article 9, state foreigners entering Kuwait on visas — including government, private sector employment, family reunification, study, temporary contracts, commerce, or medical treatment — are required to secure a residence permit within the legally specified period.

Failure to do so triggers fines as follows:

• KD 2 per day for each day of delay during the first month
• KD 4 per day for each day after the first month
• Maximum total fine capped at KD 1,200

For domestic workers who enter Kuwait with an entry visa but do not complete their residency formalities, the fines are similar, though the maximum is KD 600.

These measures are part of the Ministry’s broader initiative to strengthen governance, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that residency regulations are fully observed and administrative processes remain effective.

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) has announced the launch of a new electronic service ‘Resident Cancellation’ through the government’s “Sahel” application, making it available to private housing property owners.

PACI said the introduction of the service reflects its ongoing efforts to expand digital services and enhance the efficiency and accuracy of data updates across government systems, reports Al-Anba daily.

Under the new service, property owners can electronically remove individuals registered as residents at their property, should they wish to do so, after activating the pre-registration service for resident data.

The authority emphasized that the initiative aims to simplify procedures, improve data governance, and provide faster, more reliable services to users through secure digital platforms.

The Court of Appeal has ordered Agility Public Warehousing Company (Makhazen) to pay KD 13.694 million to the Ministry of Industry as compensation for failing to utilize the Phase Four site in the South Amghara area.

According to the ruling issued on December 26, 2025, the amount represents unpaid rent owed to the Public Authority for Industry for land allocated to the company but left unused.

The compensation covers the period from November 1, 2018, until the date of the last payment specified for each plot, as detailed in the expert committee’s report.

The disputed plots, located in the South Amghara industrial area, span a total area of 939,323 square meters. The court ruled that the authority was deprived of the benefit of these sites due to their non-utilization, warranting financial compensation.

The judgment was based on the findings of the expert committee report dated January 22, 2023, issued in Appeal No. 2022/836, which assessed the rental value and period of non-use for the allocated land.

Agility Public Warehousing disclosed the expected impact of the ruling, stating that it intends to challenge the Court of Appeal’s decision and that it is currently unable to determine the financial implications of the judgment on the company’s results.

It is noteworthy that the Court of First Instance had previously ruled the case inadmissible due to prior adjudication, ordering the plaintiff, in his capacity as Director General of Industry, to pay court expenses and KD 50 in attorney’s fees.

However, the appellate court overturned that outcome and issued a ruling in favor of the Ministry of Industry.

The case highlights the importance of adhering to land utilization requirements in industrial zones and reflects the authorities’ efforts to ensure optimal use of state-owned assets in line with development and planning objectives.

India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation has granted no objection certificates (NOCs) to two new airlines — Al Hind Air and FlyExpress — in a move to ease the heavy concentration in India’s domestic aviation market.

The approvals come amid mounting concern over the sector’s growing duopoly, with IndiGo and the Air India Group together accounting for more than 90 per cent of domestic air traffic.

IndiGo alone controls over 65 per cent of the market, fueling worries about excessive dependence on a single carrier.

These concerns were underscored earlier this month when widespread operational disruptions at IndiGo triggered major schedule disruptions, affecting thousands of passengers and exposing vulnerabilities in a highly concentrated industry, Indian news agencies report.

Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu confirmed the clearances in a post on X on Tuesday, stating that the ministry had held discussions with teams from Shankh Air, Al Hind Air and FlyExpress.

While Uttar Pradesh-based Shankh Air had already received its NOC and is expected to begin commercial operations in 2026, Al Hind Air and FlyExpress were granted approvals this week.

The entry of new players is part of the government’s broader effort to widen participation in the aviation sector. Currently, only nine scheduled domestic airlines are operational in India, a number that declined further in October after regional carrier Fly Big suspended its scheduled services.

Al Hind Air is promoted by the Kerala-based Alhind Group, while FlyExpress joins a growing list of aspirant airlines seeking to enter a market where scale, pricing power and network reach remain concentrated among a few dominant players.

The minister said encouraging new airlines has been a consistent policy objective, particularly in light of rapidly growing air travel demand. He highlighted initiatives such as the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, which focuses on boosting regional connectivity by enabling smaller carriers to operate on underserved routes.

Under UDAN, airlines including Star Air, IndiaOne Air and Fly91 have expanded services to smaller cities, helping integrate them into the national aviation network. The government believes significant growth potential remains in this segment.

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s current scheduled domestic airlines include IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, Alliance Air, Akasa Air, SpiceJet, Star Air, Fly91 and IndiaOne Air.

However, the push for increased competition comes against a backdrop of repeated airline failures. In recent years, carriers such as Jet Airways and Go First ceased operations due to mounting debt and operational challenges, highlighting the volatility and high-risk nature of India’s aviation sector despite rising demand.

Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi has issued Ministerial Decision No. 354 of 2025, dated December 25, 2025, ordering the closure of Royal Pharmacy and the cancellation of its operating license.

Article One of the decision stipulates the revocation of license No. (3500081) granted to Royal Pharmacy, in accordance with Clause (10) of Article Two of Ministerial Decision No. 327 of 2025, reports Al-Qabas daily.

Article Two states that the decision shall be communicated to all concerned parties for implementation, shall take effect from the date of issuance, and repeals any provisions that conflict with its contents.

In this regard, the Minister of Health addressed a formal letter to the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Khalifa Al-Ajil, enclosing the ministerial decision and requesting that the relevant authorities be instructed to close the pharmacy in compliance with the order.

The Minister also called for the necessary measures to be taken to cancel the pharmacy’s commercial license and all related licenses and approvals issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

These include advertising permits, electronic platform licenses, trademark usage rights, and any other related records, in accordance with established procedures.

He further requested that the Ministry of Commerce inform the Ministry of Health of the actions taken, stressing the urgency and importance of the matter.

Meanwhile, the Al-Rai daily said, the Ministry of Health announced yesterday that, at its request and in accordance with the relevant decisions, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry had closed 15 private pharmacies and revoked their licenses after it was found that their owners failed to meet one of the required licensing conditions.

Informed sources clarified that the pharmacies subject to the closure decisions do not belong to a single entity or chain, but rather include different pharmacies. The sources stressed that the measures were taken in line with the approved regulations and controls.

They added that the affected pharmacies are entitled to resume operations once they rectify their status and comply with the conditions and requirements approved by the Ministries of Health and Commerce and Industry.

The National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) announced on Wednesday the discovery of significant archaeological finds at Al-Qusur Monastery in the center of Failaka Island, including pottery inscribed with Syriac writings and evidence dating to the Umayyad and early Abbasid periods.

The Acting Assistant Secretary-General for Antiquities and Museums Mohammad bin Redha told KUNA that the joint Kuwaiti-French mission uncovered large architectural remains, early examples of artificial basalt, and pottery bearing Syriac script, indicating the presence of a Christian community that likely followed Eastern Syriac traditions.

Excavations, ongoing since 2011, have documented a monastic settlement dating from the mid-7th to mid-9th centuries CE. Professor Hassan Ashkanani of Kuwait University described the discovery as a landmark for Failaka Island, shedding light on the transition from the Christian period to early Islam.

The finds include Syriac and Persian inscriptions on ostraca, coins, an ornate perfume bottle, and food-processing installations, offering rare insight into daily, economic, and religious life on the island more than 1,200 years ago.

French mission supervisor Dr. Julie Bonneric said the site includes a monastery with a large church, refectory, and extensive food-preparation complex, highlighting evidence of Christian-Islamic coexistence during the early Islamic era.

She added that the current excavation season-the 12th-began on Nov. 17, 2025, and focuses on the monastery’s earliest phase and the daily lives of its monks. Members of the Kuwaiti archaeological team Saif Al-Batti Boutaiban, Ahmad Al-Thawadi, and Anwar Al-Tamimi, said that among the most notable discoveries was a food-processing building opposite the church. The team uncovered a flour mill featuring two low mud-brick pillars designed to support rotating grinding stones.

They explained that part of the grinding equipment was made from local stone, likely sourced from Failaka Island, while other grinding stones were produced from artificial basalt. Although this material closely resembles natural basalt rock, it was manufactured from clay and sand and fired at extremely high temperatures in large kilns. This advanced process, known as “pyrotechnology,” involved melting and recrystallizing materials to replicate the mechanical properties of volcanic basalt.

Daily consumption is capped at two cans per person, provided that the caffeine content does not exceed 80 milligrams per 250 milliliters per can. Producers and importers are also required to display clear and prominent health warnings on all packaging.

The decision imposes a comprehensive ban on all forms of commercial advertising and sponsorships related to energy drinks.

Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Abdul Wahab Al-Awadi has issued a ministerial decree regulating the sale, circulation and advertising of energy drinks, introducing strict controls aimed at protecting public health.

According to the decision, the sale of energy drinks is limited to individuals aged 18 and above. Daily consumption is capped at two cans per person, provided that the caffeine content does not exceed 80 milligrams per 250 milliliters per can. Producers and importers are also required to display clear and prominent health warnings on all packaging.

The decision imposes a comprehensive ban on all forms of commercial advertising and sponsorships related to energy drinks, reports Al-Rai daily.

It further prohibits their sale and distribution in government institutions and agencies, as well as in public and private educational institutions at all levels, including schools, institutes and universities.

In addition, the sale and distribution of energy drinks are banned in restaurants, cafés, grocery stores, food trucks, sports clubs, and through self-service vending machines.

The decision also prohibits sales via external ordering and delivery platforms, and regulates permitted product types and sizes.

However, the sale of energy drinks is allowed under specific conditions. Sales may take place only in cooperative societies and supermarkets markets, within designated areas, and under strict supervision by the relevant authorities.

All such sales must fully comply with the stipulated age and quantity restrictions.

The Ministry of Health said the measures form part of broader efforts to regulate the market and limit excessive consumption of energy drinks, particularly among young people.

Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi has issued four key ministerial decisions establishing an integrated regulatory framework for imported medical products, human medicines, and cosmetic materials. The measures aim to align Kuwait’s health market with international best practices while enhancing safety, quality, and regulatory efficiency.

The first decision assigns exclusive authority to the Drug and Medical Products Registration and Control Administration to release and authorize the circulation of medical products. It also sets clear requirements for importing human, veterinary, plant, and herbal medicines, as well as health products, cosmetics, medical devices, and laboratory supplies, ensuring product safety from entry into the country to market distribution, reports Al-Rai daily.

The second decision mandates that all human medicines undergo a pre-registration process, allowing electronic verification of certificates to replace paper documentation. It introduces eight regulatory tracks for medicine registration, offering flexibility based on product type and evaluation requirements.

The third decision implements a comprehensive framework defining procedures and conditions for registering and evaluating human medicines. It sets clear timeframes for evaluation processes, improving transparency, predictability, and decision-making efficiency.

The fourth decision establishes regulations for registering cosmetic products for marketing, specifying regulatory requirements and setting the registration validity period at five years. It empowers authorities to suspend or cancel registrations in cases of proven violations by the product, manufacturer, or marketing company, reinforcing consumer protection.

Together, these measures aim to modernize Kuwait’s regulatory system, streamline processes for industry stakeholders, and enhance public confidence in the safety and quality of health and cosmetic products.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated India’s space scientists and engineers on the successful launch of the LVM3-M6 mission, which carried the BlueBird Block-2 spacecraft of the United States into its designated orbit.

The mission marked the launch of the heaviest satellite ever placed into space from Indian soil, representing a major milestone in India’s space program.

In a message of appreciation, the Prime Minister said the achievement reflects India’s growing technological strength and its commitment to building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. He noted that the successful flight of the LVM3 rocket further establishes India’s reliable heavy-lift launch capability and enhances its standing in the global commercial space market.

“With LVM3 demonstrating reliable heavy-lift performance, we are strengthening the foundations for future missions such as Gaganyaan, expanding commercial launch services and deepening global partnerships,” Mr Modi said. He added that the achievement underscores the growing impact of India’s space sector, driven largely by the energy and innovation of the country’s youth.

Posting on social media platform X, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the mission as “a significant stride in India’s space sector,” highlighting its importance for both national capability and international collaboration. He said the successful deployment of BlueBird Block-2 not only reinforces India’s launch credentials but also signals its expanding role in the global space economy.

Modi also stressed that the enhanced capacity demonstrated by the LVM3-M6 mission will benefit future generations. “Powered by India’s youth, our space program is getting more advanced and impactful,” he said, adding that the boost to self-reliance and technological capability would have long-term benefits for the country.

He concluded by congratulating the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and all those involved in the mission, saying India continues to “soar higher in the world of space.”

The Middle East is witnessing a remarkable surge in artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, outpacing global averages in both usage and workforce upskilling. Driven by government mandates, corporate digital transformation, and a tech-savvy workforce, AI is increasingly shaping productivity, creativity, and economic growth across the region.

According to a recent PwC survey, nearly 75% of employees in the Middle East used AI tools in their work over the past year, compared with a global average of 69%. Generative AI (GenAI) tools are also gaining traction, with 32% of the regional workforce using them daily, surpassing the 28% global average.

The UAE has seen the fastest growth, with AI usage among professionals rising from 56% to 80% within a year, second only to India.

PwC estimates that AI could contribute US$320 billion to the Middle East economy by 2030, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia expected to lead the potential GDP impact. Employees report significant benefits: around 8 in 10 say AI has boosted their productivity, enhanced work quality, and increased creativity.

Additionally, 69% of employees have acquired new skills in the past year, while 81% prefer roles offering transferable skill development.

The rise of AI is also reshaping the job landscape. While some routine and entry-level roles face automation risks, new opportunities are emerging in AI strategy, ethics, and innovation management.

The traditional notion of job security is shifting; 85% of employees now link stability to adaptability and technological fluency. Challenges remain, including leadership readiness, data privacy concerns, and potential skill erosion if AI outputs are used without verification.

Governments and industry leaders are actively promoting AI adoption.

The UAE and Saudi Arabia are embedding AI into national strategies, such as UAE Vision 2031, establishing specialized institutions like the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), and integrating AI into public services—the UAE’s HR AI Agent now automates 80% of self-service HR transactions.

Corporates, including Saudi Aramco and G42, are investing in proprietary AI models and data centers, supporting hybrid human-AI teams and workforce training at scale.

As the Middle East positions itself as a global AI hub, employees and organizations alike are embracing innovation while navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Meanwhile, reports show global investment activity in data centers surged to a record high in November, fueled by soaring demand for computing infrastructure needed to support the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence technologies.

According to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence, more than 100 data center transactions were completed during the month, with a combined value of nearly $61 billion. The deals included mergers and acquisitions, asset sales, and equity investments, underscoring strong investor confidence in the sector.

Interest in data centers has accelerated throughout the year as major technology firms and AI-focused companies commit billions of dollars to expand their digital infrastructure. These investments are seen as critical to meeting the growing needs of AI models, cloud computing, and data-intensive applications.

By the end of November, total global investments in data centers had already exceeded $60.81 billion, surpassing the previous annual record set in 2024.

In North America alone, the cumulative value of data center deals in the United States and Canada since 2019 has reached approximately $160 billion. The Asia-Pacific region recorded around $40 billion, while Europe accounted for about $24.2 billion over the same period.

AI-related companies have been a key driver behind the strong performance of US stock markets this year. However, analysts have also raised concerns about high valuations and the growing reliance on debt-financed spending, questioning how quickly companies will be able to convert massive infrastructure investments into sustainable profits.

An Air India Boeing 777-300ER flight bound for Mumbai returned safely to Delhi on today morning after a technical issue was detected in its right-hand engine.

Flight AI887, carrying approximately 335 passengers, was airborne for nearly an hour following takeoff around 6:30 am when the crew observed that the engine oil pressure on the right engine had dropped to zero during flap retraction. according to PTI.

Following standard operating procedures, the pilots decided to return to Delhi, where the aircraft made an emergency landing without incident.

Air India confirmed that all passengers and crew disembarked safely and expressed regret for the inconvenience caused.

The plane is currently undergoing inspections, and alternative arrangements have been made to transport passengers to Mumbai.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation noted that a review of previous records did not indicate any abnormal oil consumption.

Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadi has issued the executive regulations for Law No. 1 of 1999, as amended, governing health insurance for foreigners, making health insurance mandatory for obtaining residency and visit visas and defining the applicable fees. The regulations are set to take effect on December 23.

Under the new regulations, a 5-dinar fee is imposed for eight categories of entry visas for residency, including:

• Employment in the government sector
• Employment in the private sector
• Engagement in commercial or industrial activities
• Family reunification
• Study
• Foreign investors
• Temporary government contracts
• Temporary employment in the oil sector

The regulations also state that health insurance fees for visit visas are determined in accordance with the private sector health insurance system and apply to nine types of visit permits, namely — government visits, business visits, family visits, private visits, medical visits, multiple-entry visits, tourist visits, sports-related visits, and cultural or social visits, reports Al-Rai daily.

A 5-dinar fee is also set for four additional visa categories — transit entry visas, entry visas for drivers of transport vehicles (trucks and buses), emergency entry visas, and a newly introduced entry category.

For residency permits, the regulations set a health insurance fee of 100 dinars for 10 categories — government and private sector employees, foreign partners, foreign investors, foreign students, foreigners who sponsor themselves, property-owning foreigners, certain categories of former illegal residents (bedoun) who have obtained foreign passports, religious figures such as imams and preachers of Husseiniyas, as well as a newly introduced residency category.

A 10-dinar fee is imposed for establishing work in the private sector under Article 18 for specific professions, including agricultural workers, fishermen, camel and sheep herders, and employees of dairy companies.

The regulations exempt domestic workers and similar categories serving Kuwaiti families from health insurance fees for the first three workers, while a 10-dinar fee is applied for the fourth domestic worker and above.

In addition, the health insurance fee for family reunification has been set at 100 dinars, depending on the residency status of the sponsor.

This applies to family members of government and private sector employees, foreign partners and investors, students, self-sponsored residents, property owners, religious figures, and foreigners who are children of Kuwaiti women who acquired citizenship through dependency.

Meteorologist Issa Ramadan said that today, December 21, will be the longest night and shortest day of the year, as a result of the beginning of the winter solstice, which is an annual astronomical phenomenon.

Ramadan explained the sun will rise at 6:39 am and set at 4:54 pm, making the night hours on this day the longest of the year, compared to the shortest daytime period.

He pointed out that this astronomical event represents the beginning of winter astronomically in the northern hemisphere, after which daylight hours gradually increase, while the night gradually shortens.

The Ministry of Interior has launched a new digital service through the government’s unified “Sahel” application, enabling citizens and residents to verify the status of domestic worker visas before beginning the recruitment process.

The initiative aims to curb duplication, reduce rejected applications, and enhance transparency in a sector considered highly sensitive in the country, The Economic Times (India) reports.

According to the ministry, the service allows users to confirm whether a visa has already been issued for a specific worker, helping streamline procedures and limit administrative errors.

Officials said the move supports broader efforts to modernize public services and protect the rights of all parties involved in domestic labor recruitment.

In a separate development, the Supreme Committee for the Investigation of Kuwaiti Citizenship, chaired by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, announced decisions to revoke citizenship in a number of cases.

Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi shared glimpses of the closing ceremony of the Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine held in New Delhi, underscoring India’s commitment to integrating traditional healthcare with modern medical systems.

In his posts on X, the Modi emphasized that the focus of traditional healthcare must go beyond meeting present needs. “We carry an equally important responsibility towards the health and well-being of future generations,” he noted, highlighting India’s vision for a sustainable and holistic approach to wellness.

The Indian Premier further stated that India’s sustained efforts at multiple levels demonstrate that traditional medicine can play an effective and meaningful role, even in critical healthcare situations.

The summit’s exhibition showcased a wide array of herbal remedies and ancient medical systems from around the world, illustrating the growing relevance and potential of traditional medicine in the modern healthcare sector.

The display highlighted India’s leadership in promoting Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and other indigenous practices alongside global systems of traditional medicine.

As part of the celebrations, the Prime Minister released a commemorative postal stamp on Ashwagandha, the ancient medicinal herb widely recognized for its adaptogenic and wellness-promoting properties.

During the summit, Shri Modi also held an enriching discussion with WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

The discussion focused on the immense potential of traditional medicine in promoting holistic health, preventive care, and overall wellness. Both leaders underlined the importance of evidence-based practices and international cooperation to further integrate traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare.

India’s leadership at the summit reaffirms the country’s efforts to elevate traditional medicine on the global stage, fostering research, innovation, and collaboration while preserving centuries-old knowledge systems.

The Prime Minister’s participation and remarks signal India’s commitment to advancing a healthcare model that balances modern science with ancient wisdom, ensuring the well-being of both present and future generations.

Many expatriates in Kuwait are bracing for significant changes to visa and residency costs in 2025. The government has overhauled its fee structure for visit visas, residency renewals, and dependent sponsorships – the first major update in years. These changes affect virtually all expat workers and their families, sparking concerns about higher expenses for visiting relatives and renewing iqama (residence permits).

While officials say the reforms will streamline the system and boost state revenue, expats are worried about the immediate impact on their wallets. From a new KD 10 fee on every visit visa to doubled renewal fees for most residencies, the costs of living and bringing family to Kuwait are rising. Below we break down all the updated fees and rules, compare old vs new charges, and explain what they mean for you as an expat in Kuwait.

New Visit Visa Fees in Kuwait (2025)

Kuwait has introduced a flat KD 10 fee for all types of visit visas as part of the 2025 regulations. This applies to every entry visa, whether for tourism, family visits, business, medical treatment, or new employment. Previously, many of these visas were free or charged only a small stamp fee. Now, every visa issuance will cost KD 10.

• Tourist visit visas – KD 10
• Family visit visas – KD 10
• Business/commercial visit visas – KD 10
• Medical treatment visit visas – KD 10
• Work entry visas – KD 10
• Residency entry visas – KD 10

The visit visa can be extended once for another 3 months, and multiple-entry visas valid for 1 year are available (but each stay capped at 30 days).

Updated Residency Renewal Fees

The annual fees for renewing an iqama have increased for most expatriates:

• Government/private sector employees – KD 20/year (was KD 10)
• Students – KD 20/year
• Clergy/religious workers – KD 20/year
• Foreign investors & property owners – KD 50/year (was ~KD 10)
• Self-sponsored expats (Article 24) – KD 500/year (new category)
• Domestic workers – KD 10/year if sponsored by Kuwaitis

This means most working expats now pay KD 20 annually for their own residency. Specialized residencies like investors and self-sponsored pay significantly more.

Family Visa & Dependent Fees – What Expats Must Know

Bringing or keeping your family in Kuwait has become more expensive. Expatriates must earn at least KD 800/month to sponsor a spouse or children on a dependent visa.

Salary Requirement:

• Minimum income: KD 800 per month
• Degree requirement: Removed (salary only matters now)
• Exemptions: Teachers, nurses, imams, government engineers, and similar professions

Annual Residency Fees per Dependent:

• Spouse/children of private or government workers – KD 20/year (was KD 10)
• Spouse/children of investors or clergy – KD 40/year
• Spouse/children of self-sponsored expats – KD 100/year
• Parents or other relatives – KD 300/year (was ~KD 200)

Dependents like elderly parents require special approval, and the fees are significantly higher than for immediate family. Overstaying or falling below salary threshold can trigger cancellation of family visas.

Comparison Table: Old Fees vs New Fees

Work Permit Transfer Fee: KD 150 Standard Charge

Starting 2025, all work permit transfers across companies or sectors will require payment of a KD 150 fee. This applies to:

• Private to private company transfers
• Government to private or vice versa
• Local company to free zone or similar

Previously, transfer fees varied widely or were waived in many cases. The KD 150 rule now standardizes the cost for all types of employer transfers.

Other Important Rule Changes for Expats

• Residency stamping for newborns: Must be completed within 60 days of birth in Kuwait
• Health insurance: Mandatory health insurance required at the time of all visa renewals and new entries
• Converting visit visa to residency: Still allowed in some cases (e.g., for spouses/children or new work permit holders), but not for tourists. Official policy has not changed but enforcement varies.

Golden Visa & Long-Term Residency

While there is no confirmed launch of a UAE-style Golden Visa yet, Kuwait’s 2025 regulations introduced a new self-sponsored residency category (Article 24). It costs KD 500/year and is intended for retirees, investors, or those who want to reside in Kuwait independently without a sponsor.

Golden visa legislation has been discussed in Parliament, but no formal announcement or eligibility criteria have been issued as of November 2025.

Who Will Be Most Affected by the New Visa Fees?

The new visa and residency rules in Kuwait will impact:

• Mid-income expats with family: Especially those earning below KD 800, who cannot sponsor spouses or children anymore
• Workers with aging parents: Sponsoring parents now costs KD 300 annually, with stricter approval
• Frequent visitors: KD 10 applies for every short-term visit visa, even for medical or business purposes
• Investors or retirees: Higher fees (KD 50–500) for staying in Kuwait without employment sponsor

Overall, the changes increase costs for most expats – especially those maintaining dependents or switching jobs.

Practical Tips for Expats Planning Travel or Family Visits

• Budget for higher renewal and visit visa costs in 2025
• Confirm your monthly salary is officially recorded over KD 800 before applying for dependent visas
• Speak to your company PRO or mandoub before transferring or sponsoring dependents
• Consider annual health insurance renewal timing – it is now mandatory alongside residency
• Check visa types carefully before travel or conversion requests – visit visas may not convert easily

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When do the new Kuwait visa fees start?The new fee structure came into effect in 2025, after the executive regulations were published and approved by authorities.How much is the visit visa to Kuwait now?All visit visas now cost KD 10 regardless of type (tourist, family, business, medical, work entry, etc.).What is the new minimum salary to bring family to Kuwait?You must earn at least KD 800/month to sponsor a spouse or child on a dependent visa, with limited profession-based exemptions.How much is the fee to sponsor parents or other relatives?The dependent visa fee for parents and extended relatives is now KD 300 per year. Approval is subject to strict requirements.Are there any exemptions from the new fees?Yes – domestic workers employed by Kuwaiti citizens still pay KD 10. Teachers, medical staff, and clergy may have lower salary rules for family sponsorship.Can visit visas still be converted to residency in Kuwait?Yes, but only in limited cases (e.g., family reunification, approved job offer). Tourists and general visitors cannot convert.Will these fees change again soon?There’s no official statement yet. However, future fee adjustments or exceptions may be made based on government directives or economic needs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Ethiopia’s highest award, ‘The Great Honor Nishan of Ethiopia,’ by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The ceremony was held at the Addis International Convention Centre in Addis Ababa.

The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi stated that the award recognized Prime Minister Modi’s exceptional contributions to strengthening India-Ethiopia partnership and his visionary leadership as a global statesman.

The accolade marks a historic milestone in India-Ethiopia relations and underscores the deepening collaboration between the two nations in areas spanning investment, energy, education, and global governance.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Ethiopia, his first bilateral trip to the country in 15 years, has been hailed as a significant step in advancing strategic cooperation, promoting sustainable development, and fostering people-to-people connections between the two countries.