Kuwait in a Week, Thursday, January 29, 2026

Kuwait University President Inspects Admission Hall to Ensure Smooth Student Enrollment

As part of her commitment to monitoring workflow and easing the application process for admission to Kuwait University for the second semester of the 2025/2026 academic year, Kuwait University President Dr. Dina Al‑Mailam conducted a field visit yesterday morning to the Admission and Registration Hall at Sabah Al‑Salem University City.

During the visit, she reviewed the registration process and listened to students’ feedback, affirming the university’s dedication to offering all forms of support and facilitation to its students. She emphasized that this ensures the completion of registration procedures smoothly and efficiently, reflecting the administration’s commitment to making the student enrollment experience positive and well‑organized.

Kuwait Highlights Failaka Island’s Heritage in UNESCO Nomination Efforts

  Kuwait’s Minister of Information and Culture, Abdulrahman Al‑Mutairi, emphasized the importance of preserving Failaka Island’s cultural heritage and advancing national and international efforts to safeguard its historical value. Speaking after meeting a delegation from the World Monuments Fund alongside the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), Al‑Mutairi said the island represents a cornerstone of Kuwait’s cultural identity. He noted that the nomination project for UNESCO’s World Heritage List aligns with Kuwait’s strategy to protect heritage sites, activate them culturally, and promote sustainable tourism. The cooperation produced conservation and management plans, interpretive narratives, and frameworks consistent with UNESCO standards. Al‑Mutairi stressed institutional coordination as key to presenting a successful national model reflecting Kuwait’s deep history globally.

IICO Completes Rehab Program for 200 People with Disabilities in Kuwait

  International Islamic Charitable Organization (IICO) has completed a rehabilitation project benefiting 200 people with disabilities in Kuwait, funded by the General Secretariat of Awqaf. Launched in November 2024 with a budget of KD 114,286, the initiative targeted individuals with physical, mental, and sensory disabilities, as well as those with learning difficulties, autism, and various syndromes. The program delivered 12,453 specialized sessions, including cognitive, language, life skills, behavioral modification, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. IICO reported significant improvements in motor, behavioral, and cognitive abilities among participants, helping them gain greater independence and social integration. The project reflects Kuwait’s commitment to empowering people with disabilities and enhancing their quality of life through sustainable humanitarian initiatives.

Kuwait to Host 13th Gulf Union Cancer Conference in February 2026

  Kuwait will host the 13th Annual Conference of the Gulf Union for Combating Cancer on February 2–3, 2026, at the Symphony Hotel, under the patronage of Health Minister Dr Ahmad Al‑Awadhi. Organized with the Kuwait Society for Smoking and Cancer Prevention, the event coincides with the Gulf Union’s new status as an observer at the World Health Organization, aligning regional strategies with global health priorities. Forty experts from the GCC and abroad will participate, with highlights including a workshop on continuous care for cancer survivors and a research competition featuring 34 papers. The conference also launches the 11th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week (Feb 1–7) under the theme “United in Excellence,” promoting early detection, healthy lifestyles, and regional cooperation.

Al‑Najat Charity: 438 Job Applications Received During Recruitment Day in Cooperation with the Public Authority for Manpower

Al‑Najat Charity Society announced that its Recruitment Day, held on January 12 in cooperation with the Public Authority for Manpower, attracted 438 job applications for positions within the society and its schools. Director General Dr. Jaber Al‑Wonda confirmed that applications are currently being reviewed, with interviews scheduled next week to select qualified candidates under Ministry of Education standards and the society’s regulations. He emphasized that the initiative reflects Al‑Najat’s policy of attracting and empowering young national talents to strengthen institutional work. The society’s schools remain committed to entrusting dedicated Kuwaiti educators with shaping future generations.

Kuwaiti Photographers Win Top Honors at UK Travel Photography Awards

  Two Kuwaiti photographers have earned top recognition at the UK’s Travel Photographer of the Year 2025 competition, which attracted entries from over 160 countries and 20,000 images. Mohammad Murad won first place in the Portfolio category for his series on Arabian red foxes, photographed in Kuwait’s Doha area after months of observation. He also received an Excellence Award for a wildlife image of a baby elephant in Tanzania, marking his 13th international award for the fox series. Suliman Alatiqi placed second in the Single Image category for Landscape, Weather and Climate with underwater photographs of water lilies in Quintana Roo, Mexico. Both photographers described the achievement as a proud moment for Kuwait, highlighting its presence on the global art scene.

Gulf Red Crescent Workshop Highlights Legal Alignment for Stronger Humanitarian Action

  The Kuwait Red Crescent Society hosted a Gulf workshop titled “Experiences of Red Crescent Societies in Aligning National Laws with Humanitarian Legislation”, with participation from GCC Red Crescent associations, the GCC Secretariat, and the Kuwait Institute for Judicial and Legal Studies. Chairman Khaled Al‑Mughamis emphasized the importance of harmonizing national laws with international humanitarian frameworks to strengthen neutrality, independence, and effective humanitarian response. The two‑day event, held in line with recommendations from the 21st GCC Red Crescent meeting, provided a platform to exchange experiences, address challenges, and develop legal systems that keep pace with humanitarian needs. Speakers from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain highlighted the role of national societies in supporting legal frameworks, empowering youth, and enhancing Gulf cooperation.

  Kuwait Tightens Oversight of Foreign Charities to Ensure Transparency in Humanitarian Work

  Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Social Affairs are coordinating to regulate overseas humanitarian projects, ensuring transparency and accountability. Assistant Foreign Minister Hamad Al‑Meshaan explained that accrediting foreign charities requires strict conditions, including official licensing, audited budgets, financial health certificates, and joint bank withdrawal authorization. Accreditation is valid for one year and subject to renewal, with applications submitted through Kuwaiti embassies. The Foreign Ministry also enforces continuous monitoring via reports and field visits to guarantee proper project implementation. Social Affairs Undersecretary Iman Al‑Anzi confirmed that while accreditation is the Foreign Ministry’s responsibility, local charities may cooperate with foreign organizations once officially registered, reinforcing Kuwait’s commitment to organized humanitarian work and safeguarding aid delivery.

Kuwait Remains Australia’s Largest Middle Eastern Investor: Australia Ambassador

  Australia’s Ambassador to Kuwait, Melissa Kelly, reaffirmed that Kuwait continues to be the largest Middle Eastern investor in Australia, underscoring strong economic trust and deep bilateral partnership. Speaking during the 125th Australia Day celebration in Kuwait, attended by senior officials and diplomats, Kelly highlighted the growing presence of Australian food products—particularly meat, wheat, and vegetables—on Kuwaiti tables, driven by quality and consumer confidence. She noted that while official estimates place Kuwaiti investments at around USD 13 billion, discussions suggest the actual figure may be higher. Bilateral trade exceeds half a billion dollars, with fluctuations tied to global commodity markets. Livestock exports remain seasonal, with Australian chilled and locally slaughtered meats widely available in Kuwait’s markets.

Over 350,000 Beneficiaries in 11 Countries from Al‑Hayat Charity Projects in 2025

Al‑Hayat Charity Society announced that 364,562 people benefited from its humanitarian and charitable projects in 2025. The society implemented 127 projects across 11 countries, including Kuwait, ranging from emergency relief to developmental and seasonal initiatives.

Chairman Abdullah Fahad Al‑Sabaa expressed gratitude to donors and supporters, noting that Kuwaitis have long been known for their generosity, humanitarian spirit, and readiness to aid those in need. He emphasized that the achievements of 2025 reflect Kuwait’s broader developmental role through its charitable organizations, which provided essential needs, alleviated suffering, and extended humanitarian support to hundreds of thousands worldwide.

Al‑Sabaa highlighted four projects carried out within Kuwait, including Qur’anic programs such as Hayat Qur’anic Circles and Teach Me Al‑Fatiha, alongside seasonal initiatives like Iftar for the Fasting and Fazaat Khair. These benefited nearly 12,000 people, produced 168 Qur’anic certifications, processed 2,300 assistance requests in cooperation with the Sabah Falcons team, and supported 38 humanitarian cases through the Ministry of Social Affairs platform.

He concluded by inviting the public to follow the society’s achievements and contribute to its charitable and humanitarian projects via social media, its website alhyat.org, or the hotline 1844455.

Salwa Zakat Projects Benefit 71,000 People in 2025

 Salwa Zakat, part of Al‑Najat Charity Society, announced that 71,000 people benefited from its humanitarian and developmental projects in 2025. Director Eng. Thamer Al‑Suhaib highlighted achievements including the construction of 33 mosques in countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Yemen, Benin, and Mauritania, alongside homes for the poor, Islamic centers, and medical clinics. The society also dug 107 wells in 10 countries, providing clean water, improving health, and supporting education. Food security initiatives distributed over 10,600 baskets and Ramadan meals, reaching 46,000 beneficiaries. Beyond aid, Salwa Zakat launched economic empowerment projects—such as livestock, fishing boats, beekeeping, and sewing machines—to transform families from dependency to productivity. Health efforts included 853 eye surgeries, hospital support in Yemen, and sponsorship of 94 orphans.

Kuwait Secures Vice President Seat at Arab Publishers Association

  Kuwait has won the position of Vice President of the Arab Publishers Association for the 2026–2028 term following elections held in Cairo. Saud Al‑Mansour, General Manager of That Al‑Salasil Publishing House, was elected Vice President, marking his fifth consecutive term on the board. Mohamed Rashad of Egypt was chosen as President. The elections saw 29 candidates competing for 16 seats, with the new board comprising representatives from 11 Arab countries. The General Assembly also reviewed the 10th session’s report (2022–2025), highlighting key activities, events, and financial and administrative performance. Established in 1962 by the Arab League, the Association is headquartered in Cairo and includes over 1,250 publishers from 20 national unions, working to protect intellectual property and advance publishing.

Kuwait’s Population Reaches 5.23 Million by End of 2025

  Official data show Kuwait’s population rose 5% in 2025 to 5.23 million, an annual increase of nearly 250,000 people. Citizens declined slightly to 1.562 million, while expatriates grew 7.4% to 3.674 million. The Indian community remained the largest at 1.059 million, followed by Egyptians at 667,173 and Bangladeshis at 324,100. The labor force totaled 3.21 million, including 462,538 Kuwaitis and 2.749 million expatriates. Public sector employment reached 525,522, while 1.825 million worked in the private sector and 859,127 in household labor. Births rose 5.5% to 49,433, with Kuwaiti births at 33,016 and non‑Kuwaiti births at 16,417. Deaths increased 12.5% to 7,857, including 4,283 Kuwaitis and 3,574 expatriates, reflecting demographic shifts across the country.

Tunisian Ambassador Praises Kuwait’s Global Humanitarian Role

  Tunisian Ambassador to Kuwait, Mohamed Boudali, affirmed that Kuwait holds a distinguished position in humanitarian work regionally and internationally, thanks to its pioneering initiatives that embody solidarity and generosity. Speaking to KUNA after meeting Khaled Al‑Mughamis, Chairman of the Kuwait Red Crescent Society, Boudali said the visit aimed to strengthen cooperation between the Kuwaiti and Tunisian Red Crescent societies, enhancing joint efforts and exchanging expertise for sustainable impact. Al‑Mughamis emphasized the society’s commitment to building effective partnerships that deliver lasting humanitarian outcomes and praised the ambassador’s role in fostering collaboration. He added that Kuwait’s relief and development efforts reflect the leadership’s vision, stressing that humanitarian work remains a cornerstone of Kuwait’s national and international mission.

Kuwait’s Tanmiya Charity Launches Housing Village for Displaced Families in Yemen

  Kuwait’s Tanmiya Charity Society has laid the foundation stone for a housing village in Yemen’s Marib Governorate, part of the “Kuwait Is By Your Side” campaign in its 11th year. The project will provide 50 residential units, each with two rooms, a kitchen, bathroom, and courtyard, along with essential facilities including a water project, a six‑classroom school, a health unit, and a mosque. Marib Deputy Governor Nasser Raqeeb praised Kuwait’s humanitarian role in easing the suffering of displaced families and supporting Yemen during difficult times. Imad Abdulrahim of Al‑Tawasul Foundation, which is implementing the project, said the initiative covers 15,000 square meters and coincides with Kuwait’s national celebrations, symbolizing solidarity and deep ties with the Yemeni people.

“Talabat for Giving” Raises €6.45 Million in Charitable Contributions Across the Region

 Talabat announced its 2025 Giving and Community Impact Report, highlighting Kuwait as one of the most generous markets in the Middle East and North Africa. Users across the region contributed over €20 million in tips to delivery riders, with Kuwait accounting for €1.562 million. Additionally, Talabat’s in‑app Giving Program raised €6.45 million through partnerships with more than 50 licensed charities. These initiatives, designed to integrate donations and tips seamlessly into the ordering experience, ensure transparency and direct support for riders and communities. Talabat continues to embed social impact into its platform, reinforcing its role as a leading digital supporter of daily giving.

 Qatar Scouts Vice Chairman Praises Kuwait’s Distinguished Scouting Legacy

Qatar Scouts Association Vice Chairman Salem Al‑Harami, also Director of Projects at Qatar’s Ministry of Education, praised Kuwait’s long history and achievements in volunteerism and scouting during his visit to the Kuwait Scouts Association. He highlighted Kuwait’s pioneering role in the Gulf, noting its diverse activities, strong community service, and success in youth leadership development. Al‑Harami said the visit aimed to learn from Kuwait’s experience and programs. Kuwait Scouts Chairman Dr. Abdullah Al‑Turaiji welcomed the delegation and announced plans for a joint Kuwaiti‑Qatari cultural scouting week to strengthen cooperation, exchange expertise, and promote Gulf brotherhood through youth engagement.