Starting November 3rd, 2024, Kuwait will implement updated regulations governing the transfer of workers from government contracts and projects to the private sector. The new rules, set by the Public Authority for Manpower, introduce specific conditions that must be met before workers can change their employment status.

The key conditions for the transfer process include:

Project Completion: The government contract or project must be officially terminated.

Confirmation Letter: The Public Authority for Manpower must receive an official letter confirming that the project has been completed and that there is no further need for the labor force.

Minimum Employment Period: Workers must have completed at least one year of employment with the project before applying for a transfer.

Employer Approval: Workers must obtain approval from their current employer before initiating the transfer.

Transfer Fee: An additional fee of 350 dinars will be charged for the transfer process.

These amendments aim to streamline labor mobility while ensuring that the transfer process aligns with project timelines and workforce needs.

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and Defense, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousuf, has confirmed that Kuwait’s new traffic law will be announced in the coming days, introducing harsher penalties for serious traffic violations. The law aims to protect road users from reckless drivers who pose significant risks to public safety.

Sheikh Fahad emphasized that while the new law focuses on stricter penalties for serious offenders, those who follow the rules will not face these severe consequences. The law targets violations such as speeding, running red lights, reckless driving, and other dangerous behaviors that threaten road safety.

On the sidelines of a security campaign he supervised in Hawally, Sheikh Fahad reiterated that Kuwait’s field security agencies are actively working around the clock to monitor traffic and residency law violations across all governorates. He stressed that the goal is to ensure safety by holding reckless drivers and lawbreakers accountable.

Key Provisions of the New Traffic Law

Major General Yousef Al-Khadda, Assistant Undersecretary for Traffic and Operations Affairs at the Ministry of Interior, highlighted some of the serious violations that will incur harsher penalties under the new law:

Speeding and running red lights

Parking in spaces designated for the disabled

Reckless driving

Failure to wear seat belts

Using a mobile phone while driving

To enforce these regulations, the General Traffic Department (GTD) has installed 252 new cameras across the country to capture violations like seat belt infractions and phone use while driving. These cameras will be fully operational within two months and are part of the 24/7 traffic control system aimed at improving road safety.

In conjunction with the law's introduction, the Public Relations and Security Media General Department will conduct a public awareness campaign to inform citizens and residents of the new rules and penalties.

Comprehensive Monitoring and Public Awareness

Kuwaiti authorities are taking a proactive approach by enforcing a stricter traffic law that will help deter dangerous driving behaviors and safeguard the lives of road users. The comprehensive monitoring system, coupled with increased public awareness, is expected to significantly reduce traffic violations and improve road safety across the country.

Kuwait has extended the validity of expatriates' driving licenses from 1 year to 3 years, following a new ministerial decision by the First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef.

This amendment to the Traffic Law allows expatriates to renew their licenses every 3 years. Renewals will now be done through the "My Kuwait Identity" mobile app, eliminating the need for paper documentation.

In a recent Gallup global safety survey, Kuwait has been classified as the safest country in the world for 2024. An impressive 99% of respondents reported feeling safe walking alone in the streets of Kuwait, surpassing other countries in the ranking. Singapore follows in second place with 94%, while Norway and Saudi Arabia both recorded 92%.

Top Scores on the Law and Order Index

Kuwait also achieved the highest score on the Law and Order Index, receiving 98 out of 100, reaffirming its position as one of the safest nations globally since 2019. The index assesses citizens' sense of personal security and their confidence in local law enforcement.

Travel Safety Index

In addition, Hellosafe has released its “Travel Safety Index,” rating countries based on 35 criteria, including societal violence, natural disasters, health infrastructure, and involvement in conflicts. According to this index, Europe stands out as the safest continent, with Iceland ranked the safest globally, followed by Singapore and Denmark. While Kuwait ranks highly in safety, Qatar also secured a top spot, placing 11th with 23.33 points.

Global Rankings and Safety Highlights

The Travel Safety Index and Gallup survey continue to position Kuwait as a top destination for safety, reassuring citizens and travelers alike. Kuwait’s commitment to security and law enforcement plays a pivotal role in maintaining this global recognition.

Kuwait's Subsidies Committee has announced that petrol and diesel prices will remain fixed from October 1 until the end of December 2024, as reported by Al-Seyassah Daily.

Current Fuel Prices:

91-octane (premium) gasoline: 85 fils

95-octane (special) gasoline: 105 fils

98-octane (ultra) gasoline: 205 fils

Diesel and kerosene: 115 fils

The decision to maintain these prices provides stability for consumers amid fluctuating global oil prices.

For years, expatriates living in Kuwait who do not understand Arabic have faced significant challenges when navigating government services. Much of this frustration stemmed from the fact that most essential services were available only in Arabic, especially with the increasing reliance on the Sahel app. From civil ID updates to residency renewals, expats had to manage everything through the app, which was exclusively in Arabic, making it difficult to access and understand.

However, there is great news for the expat community: the Sahel app is now available in English for both Android and iOS users, offering a long-awaited solution to this persistent problem. The launch of the English version has brought a wave of relief and joy to expatriates who have been struggling with the language barrier.

A Long-Awaited Solution for Non-Arabic Speakers

For years, expats who don’t speak Arabic have often found themselves relying on others to translate or guide them through the various procedures on the Sahel app. The language barrier caused delays, confusion, and often led to mistakes in completing important tasks. Everything from renewing residency permits, paying traffic fines, booking appointments, and updating civil ID details had to be done through the Sahel app, which became the cornerstone of accessing government services.

Yet, the absence of an English option added stress to what was already a complex and essential task. The expat community had been waiting for an English version of the app that would allow them to complete these tasks independently, without relying on others for assistance.

Sahel App English Version: A Game-Changer for Expats

With the launch of the Sahel app in English, expats are thrilled to finally have a user-friendly way to manage government services. The new version offers them the independence to access essential features like residency renewals, civil ID updates, paying government fines, and much more—all without the hurdle of the Arabic language.

Now, expats can log in, easily navigate through the app, and complete necessary procedures with confidence. This update marks a significant step toward making everyday processes smoother for the many expats who call Kuwait home.

Steps to Change the Sahel App to English (Available for Android and iOS)

To access the new English version of the Sahel app, follow these simple steps for both Android and iOS users:

• Update the App: Make sure you have the latest version of the Sahel app from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS).
• Login: Enter your credentials to access your account.
• Change Language:
  • Click on the three lines in the top left corner.
  • Select the globe icon (third option).
  • Choose English to switch the app’s language.

This simple update is already making a huge difference in how expatriates interact with the app and handle important government-related tasks.

English Version Now Available for iOS Users

The much-anticipated English version of the Sahel app is now also available for iPhone users. You can download the updated version from the Apple App Store to enjoy the same convenience and ease of access as Android users.

A Positive Reception from the Expat Community

The release of the English version has been met with widespread excitement and gratitude among the expat community. It is not just a technological update but a significant improvement that will transform the way non-Arabic speakers in Kuwait engage with government services. The barriers they once faced in accessing essential services have now been dramatically lowered.

With Kuwait’s growing expat population, this update is a long-awaited move that reflects the country’s commitment to providing better services for all its residents, regardless of language barriers.

For more information on using the Sahel app in English and other government services, visit Kuwait Local for regular updates and helpful guides!

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy (MEW) has announced essential maintenance work on several secondary transformer stations across all six governorates of Kuwait. This necessary maintenance is scheduled to begin tomorrow and will continue until October 5, resulting in temporary power outages for residents.

Details of the Maintenance Work

According to the ministry’s press statement, the maintenance is aimed at ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the power supply system. The scheduled work will affect various regions, and residents are encouraged to prepare for possible disruptions in their electricity service.

Timeline of the Maintenance

• Start Date: Tomorrow
• End Date: October 5

Impact on Residents

Residents are advised to take necessary precautions during this maintenance period. MEW is working to minimize inconveniences and will communicate any changes to the schedule through their official channels.

The Kuwaiti government is preparing to align gasoline prices with global market rates, targeting expatriates and visitors with a price hike, while ensuring citizens remain unaffected. According to an informed government source, this initiative aims to address the significant difference in population numbers between expatriates and citizens, as well as rising global fuel costs.

A government source disclosed to Al-Qabas that expatriates and visitors, whose numbers far exceed those of citizens, will face higher gasoline prices in the near future. "It is unreasonable for expatriates and visitors to enjoy gasoline at low prices when their numbers are double that of citizens," the source remarked.

The proposal is currently under review, with discussions on the exact percentage of the price increase still ongoing. Once finalized, the plan will be submitted to the Economic Affairs Committee for approval.

To protect citizens from any potential financial burden caused by the fuel price adjustment, the government is introducing a financial support program for fuel consumption. This initiative ensures that citizens will not feel the impact of the proposed gasoline price hike. The source confirmed that the government’s priority is to shield its citizens from any economic consequences arising from changes in fuel prices.

The government's plan to increase gasoline prices for expatriates comes as part of a broader effort to adjust local pricing in accordance with international market trends. This aligns with Kuwait’s economic objectives to manage subsidies while ensuring that essential resources like fuel are priced fairly for all residents.

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) has announced that it will suspend all Civil ID transactions and applications for individuals who have not completed their biometric fingerprint procedure. The deadline for compliance, set by the Ministry of Interior, is September 30, 2024.

PACI urges citizens and residents to ensure they complete the biometric fingerprint process before the deadline to avoid service interruptions. Failing to comply will result in the suspension of all Civil ID-related services.

Starting October 1, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has announced the cessation of biometric fingerprinting services at shopping malls across Kuwait. Residents and citizens who still need to complete biometric fingerprinting must do so at assigned centers under the personal identity verification departments of the Public Department for Criminal Evidence.

Available Centers and Appointment Scheduling

From October 1 onward, those needing to perform biometric fingerprinting can visit the designated centers, which operate daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. To access these services, individuals must book an appointment via the Sahel application, the MoI confirmed in an official statement.

Deadline for Mall-Based Fingerprinting

Until September 30, biometric fingerprinting can still be conducted at 360 Mall, The Avenues, Al-Assima, and the Ministries Complex without prior appointments. After this deadline, all mall-based biometric stations will cease operation.

This transition is part of Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to streamline services through centralized locations and digital platforms.

Following a recall in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait's Ministry of Commerce and Industry has announced the recall of five Anker lithium-ion batteries used in the Anker 335 (20,000mAh, 22.5W) power bank, Model A1647. These batteries pose a fire risk due to a manufacturing defect that causes them to overheat, potentially leading to melted plastic components, smoke, and fire hazards.

The recall affects products with the following serial numbers:

AHJ5W51E10600062

AHJ5W51E08200551

AHJ5W51E10600493

AHJ5W51E10600066

AHJ5W51E08200143

Consumers are advised to stop using these products immediately and contact Astore or Anker Innovations stores for a replacement.

The Ministry of Finance has strongly denied recent rumors circulating on social media that suggested the imposition of taxes on salaries, goods, tickets, and non-essential services. In an official statement, the Ministry stressed that these claims are entirely unfounded, reassuring citizens and residents that no such taxes are being introduced.

In addition to addressing the rumors, the Ministry highlighted its ongoing efforts to improve tax education in Kuwait, particularly among middle and high school students. Since 2005, a comprehensive tax and financial literacy program has been in place, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. This initiative aims to promote awareness of tax concepts through the Tax Media Department under the Ministry’s Tax Administration.

The Ministry emphasized the importance of building a financially literate society, ensuring that students understand taxation and financial responsibility from a young age. The program is part of a broader partnership with state institutions to enhance financial knowledge among the youth.

The Ministry also addressed concerns related to the organizational structure of the Tax Administration. Some social media users had raised questions about its operational framework. In response, the Ministry confirmed that the structure follows Administrative Resolution No. 404 of 2003, which governs the tax administration's functions. It was reiterated that the Ministry applies tax laws consistently to both foreign and Kuwaiti companies, in accordance with the law.

By providing these clarifications, the Ministry of Finance seeks to dispel any confusion and ensure transparency in its operations, reaffirming Kuwait's position as a country with no taxes on individual salaries or goods.

As of Monday, September 23, 2024, the Ministry of Interior has introduced a new service allowing domestic workers in the driver profession to access their driving licenses via the Sahel application. This initiative is designed to simplify the process for obtaining or renewing driving licenses, ensuring greater convenience for both workers and employers.

The move aligns with the government’s broader strategy to digitize public services and reduce bureaucracy, offering a streamlined experience for domestic drivers seeking to manage their legal documentation.

Simplified Access via Sahel App

The Sahel app now enables domestic workers to:

Apply for a new driving license

Renew an existing driving license

Access and track the status of their application in real-time

This digital shift is part of the Ministry’s efforts to enhance the overall efficiency of public services, reduce waiting times, and make the process more user-friendly.

For more information on the new service, users are encouraged to visit the Sahel app or contact the Ministry’s support team.

The Embassy of India in Kuwait has announced the temporary suspension of all passport-related services due to scheduled maintenance of the Passport Seva Portal. This includes essential services like TATKAAL Passport and Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) applications. The maintenance window will last from 20th September 2024, 17:30 Kuwait time (20:00 IST) to 23rd September 2024, 03:30 Kuwait time (06:00 IST).

The suspension affects both the Embassy of India in Kuwait and all Indian Consular Application Centres (ICACs) in Kuwait, located in Kuwait City, Fahaheel, Jleeb Al Shuwaikh, and Jahra. However, consular and visa services will remain fully operational, ensuring uninterrupted access to other important services for the Indian expatriate community.

Key Information:

• Dates of Disruption: From 20th September 2024, 17:30 (Kuwait time) to 23rd September 2024, 03:30 (Kuwait time).
• Services Affected: All passport-related services, including TATKAAL Passport and PCC applications.
• Locations Affected: Indian Embassy in Kuwait and ICACs in Kuwait City, Fahaheel, Jleeb Al Shuwaikh, and Jahra.
• Services Unaffected: Consular and visa services will continue as normal at all ICACs.

Contact Information:

Indian Embassy in Kuwait:

Website: Embassy of India, Kuwait
Phone: +965 22530600 / 22530612 / 22530620
Email: amboff.kuwait@mea.gov.in
Address: Diplomatic Enclave, Arabian Gulf Street, P.O. Box 1450, Safat 13015, Kuwait

Indian Consular Application Centres (ICACs) in Kuwait:

• Kuwait City: Jawahara Tower, Building No. 10, Mubarak Al Kabeer St, Sharq, Kuwait
  Phone: +965 22215150
• Fahaheel: Block 7, Plot 93, Fahaheel, Kuwait
  Phone: +965 22215150
• Jleeb Al Shuwaikh: Building No. 255, Street No. 4, Block 1, Jleeb Al Shuwaikh, Kuwait
  Phone: +965 22215150
• Jahra: Al Nuzha Commercial Centre, Building No. 5, Shop No. 14, Jahra, Kuwait
  Phone: +965 22215150

Stay updated with official announcements from the Embassy of India in Kuwait by visiting their website.

The Ol-Ajairi Scientific Center has announced that Neptune will be at its closest point to Earth today, Saturday. During this event, the giant blue planet will be fully illuminated by the sun, making it visible throughout the night and shining brighter than at any other time this year.

This rare alignment presents the best opportunity for stargazing and photography. According to the center, Neptune will appear as a small blue dot in the sky when viewed through a small telescope in Kuwait. For those with larger telescopes, more detailed views of the planet’s features will be possible.

Upcoming Celestial Event

In addition, the center noted that tomorrow, Sunday, the moon will rise around 10 PM, coinciding with the Pleiades star cluster. This conjunction will be visible with the naked eye in the eastern sky and will remain observable until it fades at sunrise.

In a significant move to regulate the sale of vehicles, Commerce and Industry Minister Khalifa Al-Ajeel has issued a decision to ban cash transactions for vehicle sales, as well as for brokers selling light and heavy vehicles on commission. The decision, which was published in the official gazette Kuwait Al-Youm, will come into effect three days after its issuance.

Penalties for Violating the Law

The penalties for those violating this decision are outlined in Article 13 of Decree Law No. 117/2013. They are severe and depend on the nature of the violation:

Fines ranging from KD100 to KD1,000 for violating clauses one and two of Article One.

Jail sentences of one month to two years and/or fines between KD500 and KD5,000 for violating clauses three and four. Additionally, the violator's goods and tools may be confiscated, and the vehicle used in the crime can be seized.

Other penalties include:

Violations of Clause Two: Jail sentences of one to six months and fines between KD50 and KD1,000.

Violations of Clause Three: Jail sentences of three months to three years and fines between KD500 and KD3,000.

Closure of Establishments

The law also grants the Ministry of Commerce and Industry the power to temporarily close any establishment where violations have occurred, with the possibility of reopening depending on the court's decision. In the case of repeat offenses, penalties are doubled, and the establishment's license may be permanently revoked.

As the academic year 2024-2025 commences, the Ministry of Education has introduced a new school bus service equipped with tracking systems for female middle and secondary school students across all educational regions in Kuwait. This initiative aims to enhance student safety by monitoring bus routes and traffic in real-time.

The Ministry stated that the tracking system allows relevant departments within the educational districts and the General Office of the Ministry to oversee the movement of the buses and ensure that students are transported safely. Female students wishing to use the service are encouraged to register through their school administrations.

In total, 1,996 buses have been allocated to various educational districts, including:

100 buses for the Capital Educational District

100 buses for the Hawalli Educational District

155 buses for the Farwaniya Educational District

86 buses for the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Educational District

360 buses for the Ahmadi Educational District

130 buses for the Jahra Educational District

125 buses for religious education institutes

200 buses for the Special Education Department

40 buses for the Sabah Al-Ahmad Center for Talent and Creativity

20 buses for scholarship students

This program demonstrates the Ministry's ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students during their daily commute.

Yousef Kazem, spokesperson for the Sahel application, has announced a temporary suspension of services starting at 12:15 AM on Friday for routine maintenance. The maintenance aims to enhance the app's capabilities and improve user experience.

In a statement to KUNA, Kazem assured that the technical team is working diligently to restore services as soon as possible. He expressed gratitude for users' patience, emphasizing that these updates are crucial for maintaining the app’s efficiency and effectiveness.

Key Points:

Service Interruption: Sahel app services will be unavailable starting 12:15 AM Friday.

Reason for Suspension: Routine maintenance to ensure smoother service delivery.

App Impact: Since its launch, Sahel has processed over 60 million electronic transactions for more than 2.3 million users, offering around 400 services across 37 government agencies.

Kazem emphasized that periodic updates are essential for enhancing the app's functionality, allowing citizens to continue benefiting from a wide range of government e-services.

The Central Bank of Kuwait has announced a new security measure for electronic payments by introducing an additional step when using payment links. This enhancement is designed to offer users an extra layer of security, providing a second opportunity to review and verify the payment details before finalizing the transaction.

When opening a payment link, users will now be shown crucial details such as the recipient’s name, transaction amount, and the purpose of the payment. The user must approve this information before proceeding to the payment page.

The Central Bank has urged all users to carefully review the displayed details to ensure accuracy and prevent any fraudulent transactions.