Esteemed members of Media in Kuwait,

The Embassy of India in Kuwait cordially invites members of the media to the Indian Mango Festival 2026, celebrating the rich diversity and exquisite flavours of Indian mangoes.

The festival will showcase a wide variety of premium Indian mangoes and offer visitors an opportunity to experience the taste, aroma, and cultural significance of India’s “King of Fruits.”

📍 Venue: The Avenues, Kuwait
📅 Date: 11 June 2026
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

You are warmly invited to cover the festival and relish the rich flavours of India’s finest mango varieties.

The Ministry of Interior issued a circular to regulate domestic worker recruitment, specifying the countries from which recruitment is permitted, as well as a list of countries from which recruitment is prohibited. This is part of updating the procedures and regulations related to domestic worker recruitment.

According to a source, the circular specifies 10 countries from which domestic workers (male and female) can be recruited:

The countries are South Africa, Benin, Senegal (males only), Eritrea, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, India, Vietnam, and Nepal.

Recruitment procedures will be completed within the governorates.

The circular includes a list of 27 countries from which recruitment is prohibited. This measure was taken based on observations and recommendations from several official bodies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Health, and the Public Authority for Manpower.

In some of these countries, the ban applies only to females.

The source indicated that some of the countries on the lists have diplomatic representation in the country, while others do not have embassies in Kuwait, Al-Anba daily reports.

The source confirmed that the relevant authorities circulated the decision to the residency affairs departments and service centers to operate accordingly starting from the date of the update the day before yesterday.

The Kuwait National Guard (KNG) marks its 59th anniversary on June 7, commemorating nearly six decades of distinguished service in safeguarding the homeland, protecting vital installations and providing support to state institutions as part of Kuwait’s national security and defense system.

The KNG was established under Decree-Law No. 2 of 1967, issued by the late Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, on June 7, 1967. The decree created the National Guard as an independent body separate from the Armed Forces and public security agencies, operating under the Supreme Defense Council.

On the same day, another Amiri decree appointed the late Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Salem Al-Sabah as Chief of the National Guard. He undertook the responsibility of building the institution and laid the foundations for a national force dedicated to serving and protecting Kuwait.

Throughout his leadership, Sheikh Salem Al-Ali guided the National Guard through decades of development, helping establish its standing among Kuwait’s defense and security institutions.

His efforts were supported by successive national leaders, including the late Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Amir and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, KNG Chief Sheikh Mubarak Al-Humoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, former Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and Sheikh Faisal Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah when they assumed the position of Deputy Chief of the KNG, contributing to advancing the Guard’s capabilities and operational readiness.

The National Guard carries out the tasks required of it efficiently and professionally, which it proved during the recent aggressive Iranian attacks on Kuwait, as they showed readiness and performed their tasks efficiently and competently.

Furthermore, strategic planning has been a cornerstone of the National Guard’s development efforts. In 2010, it launched its first strategic plan under the slogan “Security is the Foundation of Development,” followed by subsequent plans aimed at strengthening institutional performance, operational readiness and inter-agency cooperation, leading to the strategic plan (2030 – Protecting the Homeland) These plans focused on developing skills, enhancing technical capabilities and expanding cooperation with military and security institutions in friendly and neighboring countries.

They also sought to promote innovation and modern management practices across all sectors of the organization. Among the achievements resulting from this strategic vision was the introduction of rotary-wing aviation capabilities to support rescue, evacuation and operational missions.

The National Guard also implemented integrated security systems and digital transformation projects that enhanced administrative efficiency and electronic communications. The National Guard has further expanded its role as a national support force by establishing specialized units dedicated to assisting state agencies during emergencies. Through training, planning and cooperation agreements, it has strengthened Kuwait’s preparedness to confront crises and ensure continuity of essential services.

Large numbers of National Guard personnel have been also enrolled in academic and professional programs inside and outside Kuwait, while specialized training centers have been established to enhance technical skills, language proficiency and the use of modern technologies.

KNG’s leadership has also invested in upgrading infrastructure and training facilities, including advanced shooting ranges and modern military training complexes, as well as medical centers, support facilities and service projects for personnel, all in line with international standards.

Kuwait National Guard continues to strengthen its capabilities and reinforce its role as a pillar of national security, committed to protecting the homeland and supporting state institutions in accordance with its founding mission and strategic vision for the future.

Source: KUNA

The Ministry of Interior has announced the addition of four new categories eligible to obtain visas for domestic workers and drivers through the unified government electronic services application “Sahl”, as part of ongoing efforts to streamline and expand digital government services.

In a press statement, the ministry said the newly launched service enables the electronic issuance of visas for domestic workers and drivers according to clearly defined eligibility categories.

These include a single female, who is entitled to one driver and one domestic worker; a single male, eligible for one driver only; a divorced or widowed woman with children, eligible for one driver and one domestic worker; and married, divorced, or widowed males, who are entitled to one driver and up to three domestic workers.

The ministry emphasized that the initiative reflects its commitment to enhancing digital transformation and simplifying procedures for citizens and residents through the “Sahl” platform, reducing the need for in-person transactions and improving service efficiency.

The Kuwait Fire Force (KFF) has introduced a new electronic service designed to improve emergency response times for people with disabilities, as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance public safety through digital transformation.

Brigadier General Mohammed Al-Gharib, Director of Public Relations at the KFF, said the service enables the registration of data related to persons with disabilities within the systems linked directly to the operations center. The initiative allows emergency responders to identify a caller’s condition and special requirements in advance when receiving emergency reports.

Al-Gharib explained that the platform enables users to record details including the type and degree of disability, contact information, and emergency contact numbers of family members. This information helps fire and rescue teams respond more effectively and take appropriate action immediately upon arrival at the incident site.

He added that the operations center functions around the clock using advanced technical systems to receive and process emergency reports, further enhancing the readiness of fire and rescue teams and supporting an integrated safety and security framework for all members of society.

The Ministry of Health announced on Wednesday that the Central Blood Bank is continuing to receive blood donors across several affiliated centers as part of efforts to support the national strategic blood reserve and enhance the country’s health preparedness.

In a press statement, the ministry clarified that the Central Blood Bank in Jabriya welcomes donors from Sunday to Thursday between 7:30 am and 8:30 pm, on Friday from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and on Saturday from 7:30 am to 8:00 pm.

It added that the Cooperative Blood Transfusion Center, located next to Al-Adan Hospital, operates on the same schedule, ensuring consistent donor access throughout the week.

The Sheikha Salwa Al-Sabah Center, adjacent to the Maternity Hospital, receives donors from Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm, while additional branches at Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital and the New Jahra Hospital also operate during the same weekday timings, according to an Arabic daily.

Meanwhile, the donation branch at Hamad Al-Humaidhi and the Sheikha Al-Sudairawi Medical Center in Shuwaikh Residential area receive donors from Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 am to 1:00 pm.

The Ministry of Health emphasized that expanding donor reception hours across multiple centers reflects its commitment to maintaining adequate blood supplies and strengthening emergency readiness.

The Al-Ujairi Scientific Center has announced a series of notable astronomical events expected to light up Kuwait’s skies during June 2026, including planetary conjunctions, the summer solstice, and the appearance of the full “Strawberry Moon.”

The month begins with a major celestial highlight on June 9, when Venus and Jupiter will appear in close conjunction. The two planets will be separated by just 1 degree and 38 arcminutes, with the event visible from Kuwait City at around 7:02 pm as night falls.

On June 13, the sky will feature a conjunction between the Moon and Mars, as the 27-day-old Moon passes 5 degrees and 38 arcminutes south of the planet. The phenomenon will be visible shortly before dawn at approximately 2:43 am.

June 15 will mark the occurrence of the new moon, when the Sun and Moon align on opposite sides of the Earth, rendering the Moon invisible from Earth.

Two notable conjunctions will occur on June 17. The Moon will pass close to Jupiter at a distance of 2 degrees and 32 arcminutes, followed by an exceptionally close approach to Venus at just 16.2 arcminutes. In some regions of the world, this alignment may result in a lunar occultation of Venus, where the Moon briefly obscures the planet. The events will be visible from Kuwait around 7:05 pm after sunset, offering a striking view for skywatchers.

On June 21, the summer solstice will take place, marking the astronomical beginning of summer in the northern hemisphere. It is the longest day of the year, with daylight lasting approximately 14 hours and two minutes in Kuwait.

The month will conclude on June 29 with the full moon, known globally as the “Strawberry Moon,” a name originating from Native American traditions linked to the strawberry harvesting season.

The Al-Ujairi Scientific Center said these events provide exceptional opportunities for astronomy enthusiasts to observe rare celestial alignments, many of which will be visible to the naked eye under clear skies.

The Public Authority of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has announced new check-in counter closure times for passengers traveling through Kuwait International Airport, with the revised procedures set to take effect from June 1, 2026.

According to an official notice issued by the DGCA, the move is part of efforts to improve operational efficiency, facilitate smoother passenger processing, and ensure flights depart on schedule during periods of increasing travel demand.

Under the new regulations, passengers traveling to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and other Arab destinations must complete check-in procedures at least one hour before their scheduled departure time, as check-in counters will close exactly 60 minutes prior to takeoff.

For passengers traveling to all other international destinations, check-in counters will close one hour and 30 minutes before departure, requiring travelers to arrive at the airport well in advance to complete check-in, baggage drop-off, and security procedures.

The DGCA urged all passengers to take note of the revised timings and plan their journeys accordingly, particularly during peak travel periods and holiday seasons when airports typically experience higher passenger volumes.

Aviation officials emphasized that passengers arriving after the designated check-in closure times may not be permitted to complete travel procedures or board their flights, even if they hold confirmed reservations.

Kuwait has been ranked second in the Gulf region and 40th globally among 82 countries included in the “Global Migration Index 2026” issued by Remitly, which evaluates the world’s most attractive destinations for expatriates and migrant workers.

The index assesses countries based on living standards, employment opportunities, income levels, safety, public services, and overall quality of life, offering a comprehensive overview of conditions that influence migration decisions worldwide.

According to the report, Kuwait advanced one position compared to last year, ranking second globally in terms of the density of expatriate populations relative to total population.

The findings highlight Kuwait’s continued reliance on expatriate labour across key sectors, including energy, healthcare, construction, and domestic services.

The report also noted Kuwait’s strong economic environment, citing its relatively low unemployment rate, where it ranked fifth globally among the ten countries with the lowest unemployment levels.

This reflects the resilience of the national economy and its ability to generate stable employment opportunities for both citizens and expatriates.

At the regional level, the United Arab Emirates maintained its position as the country with the highest proportion of foreign residents globally, while Kuwait followed in second place, reinforcing the Gulf’s dominance as a major global hub for migrant labour.

Luxembourg and Oman also featured prominently in the rankings, reflecting their growing attractiveness to foreign workers due to strong financial sectors and expanding infrastructure and energy projects.

The index was compiled using 34 indicators across 16 migration categories, drawing on data from international institutions including the World Bank, OECD, and leading academic research centers.

Countries were assessed on a standardized scale covering income, healthcare, safety, infrastructure, integration, and overall migrant experience.

The report further highlighted that Switzerland topped the 2026 global ranking, followed by Iceland, Luxembourg, Australia, and Germany, underscoring strong performance among advanced economies with high living standards and well-developed social systems.

It added that Kuwait’s position reflects the continued importance of expatriate communities in shaping its demographic and economic landscape, particularly as the country advances development across public and private sectors.

The Public Authority for Manpower has begun implementing measures to enforce Kuwait’s annual midday outdoor work ban, which takes effect next Monday.

The regulation is aimed at protecting workers from extreme summer heat and ensuring compliance with international labor agreements related to workers’ rights and occupational safety.

Muhammad Al-Ajmi, Head of the Occupational Safety and Labor Welfare Department at the Capital Governorate Administration, said the decision aligns with international standards designed to provide a safe working environment and shield workers from direct exposure to high temperatures and intense sunlight during the summer months.

Under the regulation, outdoor work in open areas will be prohibited annually from June 1 until the end of August between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Al-Ajmi explained that the measure is intended to reduce heat stress and sun-related injuries while also strengthening labor market oversight and preventing employers from forcing workers to operate during restricted hours.

He added that field inspection teams will conduct daily monitoring tours starting at 11:00 a.m. Employers found violating the rule will first receive a warning notice and a one-day grace period to correct the violation. Repeat offenses will be referred to judicial authorities, where legal penalties and fines may be imposed.

Al-Ajmi stressed that the ban will not delay projects, as companies can reorganize work schedules by shifting operations to evening hours or other suitable times, especially in infrastructure and construction sectors.

He also called for cooperation from the public and workers to support implementation efforts and announced the launch of a reporting platform where violations of the midday work ban can be reported to authorities.

The rapid pace of technological advancement is transforming the way institutions operate, with artificial intelligence (AI) emerging as one of the most influential innovations of the modern era. From streamlining routine processes to enhancing strategic decision-making, AI is redefining administrative work and setting new standards for efficiency, productivity, and organizational excellence.

As businesses and public institutions increasingly embrace digital transformation, the integration of artificial intelligence into administrative functions is no longer viewed as a luxury but as a strategic necessity. AI-powered tools are enabling organizations to optimize resources, improve service delivery, and create smarter, more agile work environments.

Understanding Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence refers to the capability of computer systems and software to mimic aspects of human intelligence, including learning, reasoning, analysis, and decision-making. Powered by technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing, and advanced data analytics, AI enables systems to perform complex tasks with minimal human intervention. Its growing sophistication has opened new possibilities across industries, particularly in administration, where repetitive processes and data-heavy decision-making are common.

Transforming Administrative Functions

AI is playing an increasingly significant role in modern management by improving operational efficiency and supporting organizational objectives. One of the most immediate benefits of AI is its ability to save time and reduce manual effort. Routine administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, preparing reports, organizing documents, and sending reminders can now be automated, allowing employees to focus on more strategic responsibilities.

AI also enhances decision-making by processing vast volumes of data in a fraction of the time required by human teams. Through predictive analysis and pattern recognition, management can make faster, more informed decisions based on accurate insights.

Efficiency gains are another major advantage. By reducing human error and standardizing processes, AI improves consistency, increases productivity, and strengthens operational reliability.

Customer service has also been revolutionized through AI applications. Intelligent chatbots and automated support systems provide round-the-clock assistance, respond instantly to customer inquiries, and improve the overall service experience.

In document and records management, AI simplifies the secure storage, organization, and retrieval of digital files, reducing paperwork while improving accessibility and administrative control.

Key Areas of Application

Artificial intelligence is now widely used across multiple administrative functions. In human resources, AI supports recruitment by screening job applications, assessing candidate suitability, organizing interviews, and monitoring employee performance. In customer service, virtual assistants and AI-powered communication platforms provide immediate responses to inquiries, ensuring continuous engagement and faster issue resolution.

For data management, AI systems analyze complex information, generate detailed reports, identify trends, and even forecast potential operational challenges while suggesting preventive measures.

Meeting and schedule coordination has become more efficient with AI-enabled systems that automatically arrange appointments, send reminders, and manage follow-ups with minimal manual oversight.

Strategic Advantages

• The adoption of AI in administration offers numerous strategic benefits.
• Organizations can complete tasks faster, lower operational costs, and significantly improve accuracy while minimizing costly errors. Enhanced efficiency contributes to higher service quality, while AI-driven innovation encourages institutional growth and modernization.
• These advantages make AI an increasingly valuable asset in competitive and performance-driven work environments.

Challenges That Cannot Be Ignored

• Despite its transformative potential, AI adoption also presents challenges.
• The implementation of advanced intelligent systems often requires substantial investment, which may be difficult for smaller organizations. Additionally, employees need training to adapt to new technologies and workflows.
• Data privacy and cybersecurity remain critical concerns, particularly when AI systems process sensitive organizational or customer information.
• There is also growing debate over the impact of automation on employment, as some traditional administrative roles may be reduced or redefined.

Looking Ahead

Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of modern administrative excellence. Its ability to accelerate processes, enhance service quality, and strengthen decision-making positions it as a powerful driver of institutional transformation.

As AI technologies continue to evolve, organizations that proactively embrace innovation and equip their workforce with the necessary skills will be best positioned to thrive in an increasingly digital future.

In the years ahead, artificial intelligence is expected to move from being a supportive administrative tool to becoming an essential partner in organizational leadership and strategic development.

The President of Kuwait’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Sheikh Humoud Mubarak Al-Sabah, announced on Thursday the gradual resumption of operations for Arab and foreign airlines at Kuwait International Airport starting June 1, following the completion of repair and development works at operational facilities and the enhancement of airport systems and infrastructure readiness.

In a statement to Kuwait News Agency, Sheikh Humoud expressed his deep gratitude to Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah for their unlimited support for the civil aviation sector and the DGCA’s vision to modernize Kuwait’s air transport infrastructure.

He also referred to the recent visit by the Prime Minister to Kuwait International Airport to inspect progress on works at Terminal 1 (T1), accompanied by Defense Minister Sheikh Abdullah Ali Al-Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah and DGCA officials.

Sheikh Humoud praised the directives issued by the Prime Minister during a presentation outlining the repair, development, and modernization operations carried out by the DGCA following what he described as the “Iranian attacks” on Kuwait Airport. The presentation also reviewed the proposed plan for the return of foreign airline operations through the terminal, as well as this year’s Hajj flight arrangements.

He said the resumption of operations would take place gradually under an operational plan that takes into account technical and operational readiness to ensure smooth air traffic flow and passenger safety. He stressed that the DGCA would continue evaluating each phase of operations in line with approved plans until the airport reaches full operational capacity.

Sheikh Humoud added that the DGCA is keen to complete all necessary works at Terminal 1 to provide passengers with an upgraded travel experience that meets the highest standards of security, safety, and operational efficiency.

He also thanked all government entities operating at Kuwait International Airport, including the Ministry of Interior and the General Administration of Customs, while praising DGCA employees for their efforts during the exceptional circumstances.

Kuwait’s Ministry of Health inaugurated on Wednesday the country’s first specialized pediatric post intensive care recovery clinic at Jahra Hospital.

In a press statement, the ministry said the clinic operates under the supervision of Head of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Dr. Iman Al-Hashemi, reflecting a modern medical approach focused on continuity of care and comprehensive recovery.

The ministry noted that the clinic aims to provide early detection of complications associated with post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) and improve long-term health outcomes for children through specialized follow-up programs supporting physical, neurological, psychological and behavioral recovery.

The initiative aligns with modern global trends in critical care medicine, which increasingly view medical success beyond survival from critical illness to include quality of life, sustainable recovery and restoration of physical, psychological and neurological functions after intensive treatment, the ministry added.

The ministry affirmed that the initiative represents a qualitative leap in pediatric intensive care services in Kuwait and reflects an advanced medical vision centered on comprehensive recovery and improved quality of life for children and their families.

Speaking on the occasion of International Museum Day, he emphasized that museums are no longer limited to displaying artifacts but have become modern educational and cultural platforms that promote knowledge, dialogue, and tolerance within society.

He noted that this year’s global theme, “Museums uniting a divided world,” reflects the importance of museums in fostering cultural understanding and bridging differences between peoples.

Bin Redha also highlighted that International Museum Day supports key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly reducing inequalities, promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions, and strengthening global partnerships.

He pointed out that this year’s celebration coincides with the 80th anniversary of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), underscoring the global importance of protecting heritage and advancing museum work.

He added that Kuwait continues to develop its museums sector through modernization, digital documentation, exhibitions, and cultural and educational programs aimed at enhancing public engagement with national heritage.

The Ministry of Interior has issued a warning over a surge in online fraud schemes involving fake offers for chalet rentals, hotel bookings, and travel tickets, which are being used to deceive citizens and residents.

Colonel Othman Mohammed Al-Gharib, Director of the Security Media Department at the Ministry of Interior, said scammers are exploiting seasonal demand and national events to circulate fraudulent links and messages aimed at stealing personal and banking information.

Speaking during an interview on Kuwait Television’s program “Good Morning Kuwait”, Al-Gharib noted that some fraudsters are also taking advantage of the Gulf Cooperation Council Unified Traffic Week by sending fake SMS messages urging recipients to pay traffic fines through unofficial links.

He stressed that traffic violations can only be settled through approved official platforms, including the Sahl App, the Ministry of Interior’s official application, traffic departments across the governorates, and designated service centers nationwide.

Al-Gharib warned that the summer season typically sees an increase in misleading advertisements on social media promoting unusually cheap chalet rentals and travel deals. These schemes, he said, rely on attracting victims with unrealistic prices before disappearing once payments are made.

He added that the Ministry of Interior continues to monitor fake accounts and fraudulent websites, working to identify offenders and refer them to the competent authorities.

The ministry also urged victims of online scams to immediately report incidents to law enforcement, stressing that public awareness and cooperation remain key to combating cyber fraud and protecting society from evolving digital threats.

Kuwaiti banks are tightening lending policies for expatriates, with several lenders now limiting personal loans to amounts tied directly to end-of-service benefits, and in some cases offering financing worth 20 percent less than the employee’s expected indemnity package.

According to banking sources, the stricter measures reflect growing concerns over job security among non-Kuwaiti workers, particularly in sectors vulnerable to Kuwaitization policies and economic uncertainty linked to regional geopolitical tensions.

Sources said some banks have begun implementing revised credit standards that significantly narrow financing opportunities for expatriates, especially employees working in professions placed on internal “red lists”, jobs considered at high risk of localization or layoffs. In certain cases, financing approvals have reportedly been suspended altogether for workers in sectors nearing Kuwaitization targets.

The new approach also takes into account the increasing risks facing some private sector industries affected by the ongoing instability in the Middle East. Bank officials are said to be closely monitoring labor market developments before deciding whether to ease or further tighten lending exposure to residents.

Under the revised policies, banks are increasingly linking loan ceilings to the customer’s accumulated end-of-service benefits, while evaluating each application individually based on employment stability, salary level, employer credibility and overall creditworthiness.

Banking sources noted that employees over the age of 60 working in government entities, as well as residents with fewer than five years of service in the private sector, may now be required to provide a Kuwaiti guarantor before securing financing, particularly if exceptions are granted.

Despite the tightening measures, some categories of expatriate professionals are still expected to receive favorable consideration. These include specialists in medicine, engineering, education, academia, banking, investment and certain technical oil-sector positions that remain outside immediate Kuwaitization plans.

Banks are also prioritizing applicants employed by financially stable companies, particularly firms listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange or those included in preferred banking categories. Sources added that applicants with at least 10 years of service, strong salaries and solid credit histories stand a better chance of securing financing approvals.

The stricter lending environment has also expanded to banks that previously offered loans to residents earning as little as 250 to 300 dinars per month. Many lenders are now reportedly raising minimum salary requirements to above 500 dinars as part of broader risk-management measures.

Meanwhile, premium clients classified under “platinum” banking categories are expected to continue receiving preferential treatment, particularly those backed by deposits, investments, shares or other forms of financial guarantees.

For expatriates employed in the government sector, financing remains possible if their positions are not immediately targeted for Kuwaitization and if their end-of-service benefits comfortably exceed the requested loan amount. However, sources stressed that approvals are now being handled far more selectively than before.

The tightening measures come as Kuwaiti banks seek to rebalance their credit portfolios amid a slowdown in personal financing growth. Industry observers believe lenders may increasingly shift focus toward alternative growth sectors while maintaining a cautious stance toward unsecured retail lending.

Data from the Central Bank of Kuwait showed that total lending activity continued to grow during the first two months of 2026, before the outbreak of the US-Israeli-Iranian conflict. Loans granted in February alone rose by around 1.25 percent month-on-month, reaching approximately 808 million dinars and bringing total