Kuwait in a Week 13: 20 November 2025

Amir honors distinguished teachers and schools on World Teachers’ Day

Under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al‑Ahmad Al‑Jaber Al‑Sabah, Kuwait celebrated World Teachers’ Day with a ceremony honoring distinguished teachers and schools for the academic years 2023‑2024 and 2024‑2025. Held at Abdullah Al‑Salem University, the event was attended by the Crown Prince, the Prime Minister, senior officials, and began with the national anthem and Quran recitation.

Minister of Education Jalal Al‑Tabtabaei praised teachers as “pillars of renaissance and guardians of national identity,” highlighting their role in shaping generations and supporting 600,000 students through curricula and training. He outlined the Education Reform Plan 2025‑2027, focusing on governance, transparency, infrastructure modernization, and digital transformation in line with New Kuwait 2035.

Teacher Khalil Saud Al‑Harbi expressed gratitude to the Amir for elevating educators’ status. The ceremony featured a short film, a song tribute, and concluded with the Amir personally presenting commemorative awards to honored teachers and schools.

Kuwait's Amir receives BlackRock Chairman, CEO

 His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received on Monday BlackRock's Chairman and CEO Larry Fink and members of the company's board of directors, who are on a visit to the country. His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah attended the meeting.

His Highness the Amir affirmed Kuwait's strong commitment to improving pathways for new investment and expanding economic cooperation, expressing appreciation for BlackRock's decision to open an office in Kuwait. The move will contribute to improving the business environment, supporting global institutions, and encouraging capital investments that help drive the country's development, he noted.

Meanwhile, Fink commended Kuwait's longstanding efforts of more than two decades, which he said contributed to the economic transformation witnessed under the leadership of His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Crown Prince, and His Highness the Prime Minister. He stressed the company's aspiration to further strengthen its partnership with Kuwait in support of its economic vision for prosperity and sustainable growth.

Fink also expressed gratitude for the trust placed in BlackRock, noting that the company is proud to be the first global asset management firm operating at full capacity in Kuwait, a reflection of the shared commitment to advancing the country's development objectives. — KUNA  

“Social Affairs”: Coordination to Settle Dues of Foreign Entities Dealing with Charitable Associations

 Kuwait’s Ministry of Social Affairs, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has authorized charitable associations to settle outstanding dues owed to foreign entities for contracts predating the suspension of financial transfers in January 2025. The move aims to shield Kuwaiti charities from potential legal repercussions arising from halted commitments.

The Ministry of Social Affairs, through its Department of Charitable Associations and Endowments, permitted transfers only under strict conditions. Payments must be tied to contracts signed before the suspension decision, covering the period from January 2025 to the present. Charities are required to submit copies of agreements and contracts for projects that remain incomplete before initiating any transfer.

Transfers must be conducted exclusively through accredited banks, with all necessary approvals and permits secured. Proof of completed transactions must be provided to the Ministry. A firm deadline of December 1 has been set to finalize all transfers related to earlier contracts, while future dealings with suspended foreign entities remain prohibited.

Officials emphasized that this allowance is intended solely to fulfill existing contractual obligations, thereby preserving the credibility of Kuwaiti charitable work abroad. Oversight bodies stressed full compliance with financial regulations to ensure transparency and prevent misuse of funds.  

Kuwait’s Namaa Charity Implements New Relief and Development Projects in Somalia

Namaa Charity of Kuwait has launched new relief and development projects in Somalia, reflecting Kuwait’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities. The initiatives address urgent humanitarian needs caused by poverty and recurring drought, while also promoting sustainable development.

The charity performed 100 eye surgeries, restoring sight to patients and improving the lives of families dependent on visually impaired breadwinners. In parallel, food baskets, hot meals, and meat were distributed to 400 families, providing vital sustenance in drought‑stricken areas. Field teams reached remote villages to ensure aid reached the most deprived households.

Beyond immediate relief, Namaa supported 15 families with halal income‑generating projects, such as livestock raising and small businesses, helping them escape poverty and build local economic resilience. Khaled Al‑Shammari, Head of Development, emphasized Kuwait’s humanitarian role, thanking national leadership. These efforts, part of a field tour, reaffirm Kuwait’s international standing in relief and sustainable development.

Kuwait Participates in 56th Annual International Women’s Club Charity Bazaar in Jakarta

The Embassy of the State of Kuwait in Indonesia took part on Wednesday in the 56th annual charity bazaar organized by the International Women’s Club in Jakarta, attended by Mrs. Silvy Aibran Ra Kabuming, spouse of the Vice President of Indonesia.

In a statement, the Embassy noted that during her tour of the bazaar, the Vice President’s spouse visited the Kuwaiti pavilion, where Kuwait’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Khaled Al‑Yaseen, presented her with a special souvenir produced by Beit Al‑Sadu.

The pavilion showcased traditional heritage items, locally manufactured food products, as well as models and artworks reflecting Kuwait’s environment and culture, as part of the Embassy’s efforts to engage with Indonesian society and official institutions.

The statement added that a quarter of the bazaar’s proceeds will be donated entirely to Indonesian charities through the International Women’s Club.

The bazaar is considered one of the oldest social activities linked to the diplomatic corps in Indonesia, held annually for over five decades, with the aim of raising funds for local humanitarian and charitable initiatives through the participation of diplomatic missions presenting cultural and heritage products. KUNA

Al-Najat Charity: 55,000 Beneficiaries of “Food Provision” Project in Kuwait

Dr. Jaber Al‑Wonda, Director General of Al‑Najat Charity, announced that more than 55,000 people in Kuwait have benefited from the “Food Provision” project since its launch in 2019, at a cost exceeding 2 million Kuwaiti dinars. He emphasized that the initiative reflects the association’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the culture of charitable and humanitarian work in Kuwait and to promote values of solidarity and generosity within society.

Al‑Wonda explained that the project supports struggling families and the most vulnerable groups, including orphans, widows, divorcees, patients, and children of prisoners, among others facing difficult circumstances. He noted that beneficiaries represent 38 different nationalities.

The project provides monthly food coupons enabling recipients to purchase essential items from contracted supermarkets, preserving their dignity and privacy while allowing them to choose what suits their needs. In addition, the initiative includes the distribution of food baskets and other forms of support and assistance.

Inspection Teams Formed to Protect Charitable Work During Ramadan

Bushra Shaaban reported that Nasser Al‑Ammar, Director of the Department of Charitable Associations and Endowments, announced that the Committee for Monitoring Charitable Work will hold its regular meeting to approve a six‑month work plan. In addition, field inspection teams will be formed to safeguard charitable activities during the holy month of Ramadan from individuals who enter the country with the aim of soliciting donations.

Al‑Ammar stressed that the committee will take strict measures against any commercial institution that allows its imported labor force to engage in fundraising. Such violations will result in the permanent closure of the institution’s file and referral of its owners to the competent legal authorities.

Wall Street Journal: Kuwait Invests in $100 Billion Global AI Infrastructure Project

Brookfield announced Wednesday the launch of the Global Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure Program, valued at up to $100 billion, in partnership with NVIDIA and Kuwait’s Public Investment Authority. The initiative aims to strengthen large‑scale investments in the technological backbone of energy, computing, and data centers worldwide.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the program will be anchored by Brookfield’s AI Infrastructure Fund (BAIIF), which targets $10 billion in equity commitments. The fund has already secured $5 billion from strategic partners, including Brookfield, NVIDIA, and Kuwait’s sovereign wealth fund.

Brookfield stated that the capital, combined with co‑investments and smart financing, will be used to acquire AI infrastructure assets across the full value chain—from energy and land to advanced computing and data centers—reaching $100 billion in total.

Iskander Rashid, Brookfield’s Head of AI Infrastructure, described the effort as one of the largest infrastructure projects in history, comparable to building electricity and telecom networks but at a faster and larger scale. He estimated $7 trillion will be needed globally over the next decade to meet energy and computing demands.

NVIDIA founder Jensen Huang emphasized that AI has become a core technology for every nation and industry, noting the partnership will deliver deployable AI cloud systems based on NVIDIA’s DSX design to support rapid expansion of advanced applications.

Minister of Information: Kuwait, Homeland of Thought and Creativity

Kuwait’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al‑Mutairi, inaugurated the 48th Kuwait International Book Fair, representing Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al‑Abdullah. He described the fair as a “call for dialogue, interaction, and renewal” and affirmed Kuwait’s role as a beacon of thought, creativity, and cultural exchange. Al‑Mutairi emphasized that youth are the nation’s true wealth, underscoring the importance of instilling a love of reading and providing a cultural environment that fosters inquiry and innovation.

The fair, held under the patronage of Kuwait’s leadership, highlights the country’s longstanding commitment to culture and knowledge. Oman was welcomed as Guest of Honor, with recognition of its rich literary and cultural heritage under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq. The event also honored Mohammed bin Al‑Zubair for his contributions to Omani cultural identity. Officials stressed that the fair embodies Kuwait’s vision of culture as a foundation for dialogue, unity, and sustainable development.

WHO: Exploring Recognition of Kuwait as a Global Center of Excellence

Dr. Asaad Hafiz, representative of the World Health Organization, revealed that discussions are underway with Kuwait’s Medical Responsibility Authority to explore the possibility of recognizing Kuwait as a global center of excellence in this field, expressing hope that such recognition will be achieved soon.

Health Minister Dr. Ahmad Al‑Awadhi described the Medical Responsibility Authority as a cornerstone for strengthening good governance in the health system and for upholding justice and transparency in handling medical complaints and cases. Speaking at the opening of the Authority’s second conference, he emphasized its role in safeguarding patient rights, supporting medical professionals, and building trust across the healthcare system.

Authority President Dr. Salman Khalifa Al‑Sabah noted that the conference aligns with Kuwait Vision 2035, highlighting achievements since the enactment of Law No. 70 of 2020. He explained that the Authority has evolved from a legislative text into a comprehensive institutional framework, improving investigative committees’ efficiency and positively impacting the judiciary by reducing litigation times and enhancing the handling of medical cases through precise technical reports.

Al‑Nouri Charity: $1 Million in Aid for Gaza

The Sheikh Abdullah Al‑Nouri Charity Society announced Monday the provision of urgent humanitarian aid worth $1 million to the people of Gaza, in cooperation with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). The initiative is part of joint efforts to alleviate the worsening humanitarian crisis in the besieged enclave.

Advisor Jassim Al‑Nouri stated that the aid responds to the dire living, health, and food conditions in Gaza. He noted that the association visited WFP warehouses in Jordan to oversee preparations and ensure compliance with international humanitarian standards before the shipments are delivered to Gaza in coordination with Jordanian authorities. The assistance includes infant formula, nutritional supplements, and ready‑to‑eat meals, targeting the most vulnerable groups—particularly infants and nursing mothers.

Abdulatif Al‑Dawas, Director of Resources and Media, emphasized that the aid is offered on behalf of the Kuwaiti people, reflecting their values of solidarity and compassion. He praised the constructive partnership with WFP, stressing that cooperation with trusted UN institutions guarantees transparent and fair distribution, while showcasing Kuwait’s honorable role in global humanitarian work.

Kuwait Reaffirms Commitment to Fighting Corruption at INTERPOL Conference

Kuwait’s Anti‑Corruption Authority (Nazaha), led by Chairman Abdulaziz Al‑Ibrahim, underscored the country’s dedication to combating corruption and strengthening transparency during the INTERPOL Global Anti‑Corruption and Asset Recovery Conference in Abu Dhabi. Al‑Ibrahim stated that Kuwait’s participation reflects its commitment to collective international action and its role in shaping global strategies against corruption.

He highlighted the importance of building sustainable networks with regional and international organizations to exchange expertise, enhance national capabilities, and improve information sharing to track illicit financial flows. The conference, which gathers law enforcement, oversight bodies, and financial intelligence units worldwide, offers Kuwait valuable opportunities to learn about the latest mechanisms for asset recovery and anti‑money laundering, while supporting national legislation and judicial cooperation.

Al‑Ibrahim emphasized that combating corruption is a shared responsibility requiring coordination among nations, and noted Kuwait’s reforms to protect public funds and reinforce integrity systems.

Al‑Othman Mosque Restoration Nears Completion, Wins Regional and Global Recognition

The restoration of Kuwait’s historic Al‑Othman Mosque, underway for nearly 18 months, is in its final stages and set to reopen by Ramadan. Engineer Adnan Abdullah Al‑Othman explained that delays stemmed from efforts to faithfully replicate the mosque’s original 1958 design, using archival photos and a digitized 1960 inauguration video to preserve authentic colors, patterns, and details.

The mosque holds deep cultural significance, having hosted Kuwait’s first charitable committee, Zakat Al‑Othman, and preacher Hassan Ayyoub in the 1970s. Original features such as ironwork, doors, windows, and terrazzo flooring were preserved, while modern smart systems for lighting and air conditioning were added to enhance sustainability.

The project earned the Gulf Excellence Award 2025 for energy efficiency and a preliminary LEED Gold certification, making it the first heritage mosque worldwide to achieve this status. Documentation led by Ksenija Graovac and Zahra Ali Baba uncovered hidden Islamic art and ensured compliance with international heritage standards.

48th Kuwait International Book Fair Opens with Global Participation, Oman as Guest of Honor

Kuwait’s Minister of Information and Culture, Abdulrahman Al‑Mutairi, inaugurated the 48th Kuwait International Book Fair on behalf of the Prime Minister, highlighting its role as a leading cultural platform and international publishing hub. This year’s edition features 33 countries, 433 pavilions, 611 publishers, and over 270,000 book titles—an increase of 35,000 from last year.

Al‑Mutairi praised Oman’s selection as Guest of Honor, reflecting deep cultural ties and Gulf cooperation, and emphasized the fair’s alignment with Kuwait’s designation as Arab Capital of Culture and Media 2025. He noted the importance of youth engagement, with 72 percent of Kuwait’s population under 30, and pointed to diverse activities such as the Cultural Hall, Café, and Children’s Pavilion.

Oman’s Minister of Information expressed gratitude, underscoring shared Arab cultural heritage. The fair runs until November 29, with halls named after prominent Kuwaiti literary figures and strong participation from the Kuwait News Agency.

Rare Migratory Birds Documented in Kuwait

Kuwaiti photographer and environmentalist Dr. Abdullah Al‑Zaidan has recorded several rare bird species during their winter migration through Kuwait, underscoring the country’s role as a vital stopover for migratory wildlife. Among the sightings were a long‑eared owl in Shuwaikh Public Park, a short‑eared owl, and an endangered Eastern Imperial Eagle in Jahra Nature Reserve.

Al‑Zaidan noted that long‑eared owl sightings are exceptionally rare in Kuwait, with only 11 recorded during the November–March migration season. Distinguished by its ear‑like feather tufts and striking orange eyes, the owl prefers wooded and shaded habitats. In contrast, the short‑eared owl, with its round pale face and yellow eyes, is more common and active during the day in open environments.

The Eastern Imperial Eagle, larger than the Steppe and Greater Spotted Eagles, is a rare winter visitor characterized by dark plumage, golden neck, and white shoulder patches. Al‑Zaidan emphasized Kuwait’s ecosystems as crucial for sustaining migratory bird populations.

New Discoveries at Bahra 1 Archaeological Site in Northern Kuwait

The National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) announced the discovery of more than 20 ancient kilns dating back 7,700 years at Bahra 1 in Subiya, northern Kuwait. Additional finds include a half‑model of a winged owl, 7,500‑year‑old barley remains, broken pottery vessels, a small clay human head, figurines, a ship model, and pottery linked to food preparation.

Mohammed bin Redha of NCCAL described Bahra 1 as the oldest and largest known Ubaid culture settlement in the Arabian Peninsula, dating to around 5700 BC. The Polish archaeological mission focused on reconstructing aspects of daily life through field studies, laboratory analyses, and radar surveys revealing buried cultural features.

Dr. Hassan Ashkanani of Kuwait University emphasized the discoveries’ importance for understanding early settlement development. Polish team members highlighted evidence of food preparation, pottery production using clay mixed with plants, and bitumen fuel. Bahra 1 has been a key research site since 2009.

AI or EI? Leaders Warn Tech Must Not Replace Humanity

The National Leadership Institute hosted Breaking Barriers III: AI vs EI – The Savior of Business at the Sheikh Jaber Al‑Ahmad Cultural Center, under the patronage of Minister of State for Communication Affairs Omar Saud Al‑Omar. He stressed that while artificial intelligence offers powerful tools, emotional intelligence is vital to ensure technology serves humanity. Al‑Omar linked this balance to Kuwait’s Vision 2035, which seeks a diversified, knowledge‑based economy supported by smart transformation.

NLI CEO Mohammad Al‑Khulaifi emphasized the need for leadership that combines AI’s analytical power with empathy and human values. Sessions featured regional and international speakers, including UAE AI Minister Omar Al‑Olama, who warned against overreliance on AI, noting risks to critical thinking and emotional intelligence. He highlighted the UAE’s rapid AI expansion, aiming for 10,000 companies by 2030. The conference underscored that effective leadership must integrate innovation with humility, collaboration, and emotional awareness.

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Sources: Agencies and Kuwaiti Papers and news sites