Kuwait in a Week

 Kuwaiti aid races to reach Gaza amid border hurdles

 Kuwaiti humanitarian organizations, including the Al-Rahma International Society and the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS), have mobilized to deliver urgent aid to Gaza despite significant obstacles. In a recent interview, Dr. Waleed Al-Anjari of Al-Rahma's Palestine Office highlighted the urgent need for clean water, food, temporary shelter, and medicine for families in Gaza.

To address the immediate need for shelter, Al-Rahma has pre-positioned 3,000 tents in Al-Arish, Egypt, which will be sent into Gaza as soon as access is granted. The organization is also focusing on repairing damaged wells to provide safe drinking water. Al-Rahma and the KRCS have also partnered to send tons of food supplies, which were sourced from the Kuwait Flour Mills to ensure high quality and a long shelf life, into Gaza.

The aid delivery process requires careful coordination with the Palestinian and Egyptian Red Crescent societies. The Egyptian Red Crescent will oversee the entry and distribution of the aid to ensure the safety of Kuwaiti volunteers. KRCS General Manager Fawaz Al-Mazrouei emphasized that the humanitarian effort is ongoing, with overwhelming generosity from donors.

However, aid delivery faces significant challenges. According to reports, hundreds of trucks carrying essential supplies have been held up at the Rafah crossing. UN officials, aid workers, and volunteers have reported that shipments are often rejected for minor flaws, "dual-use" concerns, or other seemingly arbitrary reasons, even when pre-approved by the UN. Supplies such as oxygen tanks, medical equipment, and shelter materials have faced delays for weeks or months. One UN staffer noted that it appears they are rejecting anything that can provide a semblance of humanity.

In addition to shelter, a pressing concern is the care of orphaned children. Al-Anjari noted that the number of children needing support has surged from 6,000 to over 60,000. He also lamented the destruction of the Kuwait Specialized Hospital in Gaza, which had served the community for years. Despite the ongoing challenges at the border crossings, Kuwaiti aid groups remain dedicated to providing relief and hope for a ceasefire to allow aid to reach those in need.

 Localization of charitable work ‘a top priority’

  Acting Director General of Zakat House Dr Majed Al-Azmi affirmed Tuesday that localizing charitable work in Kuwait remains one of the institution’s top priorities. Speaking after a meeting with Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs Dr Khaled Al-Ajmi, Al-Azmi said the approach aligns with Kuwait Vision 2035 and the directives of the country’s leadership.

The discussions focused on enhancing joint cooperation in the field of social welfare, particularly in supporting social funds and strengthening partnerships to better serve the most vulnerable groups. Al-Azmi underscored Zakat House’s commitment to transparency and adherence to quality standards in safeguarding the rights of beneficiaries, noting that this contributes to consolidating its role as a pioneering model for charitable work in Kuwait.

KUNA

 Kuwait committed to Palestinian cause: FM

Addressing the extraordinary ministerial meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya reaffirmed Kuwait's strong commitment to supporting the Palestinian people. He emphasized the importance of a complete and immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the targeting of civilians and infrastructure.

Al-Yahya called for all crossings to be reopened so that humanitarian and medical aid can be delivered to Gaza, noting that Kuwait has recently launched a $32 million campaign to provide urgent relief. He also voiced Kuwait’s opposition to settlement policies and any attempts at forced displacement that would alter the demographics of Palestinian territories.

The minister condemned remarks by Zionist authorities regarding a "Greater Israel," calling them a blatant violation of international law. He also condemned the use of starvation as a method of warfare and urged all Muslim countries to take a firm stance against such practices and protect Palestinian civilians. Al-Yahya concluded by reiterating Kuwait's unwavering support for a two-state solution, with an independent Palestinian state based on the June 4, 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as its capital.

KUNA

 Kuwait Condemns Israeli Incursions into Syria

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the State of Kuwait's condemnation and denunciation of the continued violations by Israeli occupation forces and their incursions into the territory of the Syrian Arab Republic. It considered this a flagrant violation of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, international law, the UN Charter, and relevant international legitimacy resolutions.

The State of Kuwait affirmed its full support for the brothers in Syria in confronting these aggressions and renewed its backing for all measures taken by the Syrian government to preserve its security and stability.

The Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry called on the international community to assume its responsibilities in stopping these repeated violations, ensuring respect for Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and preserving the security and stability of the region.

Syrian News Agency

 Kuwait Vision 2035 emphasizes private sector, Kuwaitization

   The Kuwait Vision 2035 development plan focuses on fostering a dynamic private sector that drives economic growth alongside the public sector, diversifies income sources, and creates quality jobs for Kuwaiti nationals.

Central to this effort is “Kuwaitization,” ensuring the integration of national talent into private sector employment while balancing market needs with national development goals. On challenges and decisions in this regard, Director of Public Relations and Media at Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower, Mohammad Al-Muzaini, told KUNA that the development plan includes legislative measures to increase the proportion of Kuwaiti employees, specialized training programs, and incentives such as higher fees for hiring foreign workers in positions that can be filled locally.

These challenges also include the need for rare or specialized skills, longer private sector working hours, and the attractiveness of public-sector benefits like job security, maternity leave, patient attendance leave, and other benefits.

Al-Muzaini highlighted initiatives to reduce wage gaps, revise labor support policies, and engage educational institutions to prepare students for private-sector careers through awareness programs, curriculum adjustments, and mandatory internships. The Public Authority for Manpower has also proposed incentives for private companies to create more opportunities for Kuwaitis and has established a Labor Relations Department to protect employees’ rights, he pointed out.

Muhannad Mohammad Al-Sane, Member of the Board of Directors of the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA), stressed the private sector’s historic and ongoing role in Kuwait’s economic growth, including banking, finance, real estate, and services.Al-Sane noted that Kuwaiti youth are well-positioned to lead and innovate in these sectors.

For his part, Former Finance Ministry advisor Mohammad Ramadan added that while wage disparities are less decisive than job security, enhancing private-sector opportunities, regulating pay scales, and linking foreign labor fees to employment of Kuwaitis can make private employment a more viable and attractive option. The Expert emphasized that a carefully planned and well-executed Kuwaitization policy can expand job opportunities without compromising private-sector productivity. — KUNA

 Kuwait Pushes for a Return to Political "Fundamentals"

Kuwait's Government Takes Unprecedented Action to Revitalize the Nation

Kuwait is undergoing a significant governmental shift under its current Amir, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Following his decision to dissolve the National Assembly and suspend its sessions for up to four years, the government has launched a series of reforms aimed at addressing long-standing issues, particularly concerning national identity and citizenship.

A key focus of this initiative is an investigation into the "national identity file," which is led by a special committee that meets weekly to review and revoke citizenship. According to the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, this effort is in response to decades of what he describes as political interference and mistakes. The Minister stated that over 50,000 people have had their citizenship revoked, including more than 30,000 women married to Kuwaiti men. He revealed that 6,000 of these cases involved forgery and that others were the result of political pressure and favors from previous governments and parliament members.

The Minister stressed that the Amir's goal is to "return Kuwait to the Kuwait" of its early, principled political beginnings. He believes the country is facing a heavy legacy of nearly 40 years of errors caused by "weak governments" and "electoral interests." He pointed out that some individuals obtained citizenship through corrupt means, such as financial payments, sham marriages, or by falsely claiming to have performed "great services" for the nation.

In addition to the citizenship crackdown, the government is working on a new citizenship law and a separate law to address the long-standing issue of the Bidoon, or stateless residents, whom the Minister refers to as "illegal residents." He stated that a new law is in its final stages and will aim to provide a legal pathway for these individuals to reside in Kuwait. He also warned that those who fail to correct their status under the new law will be categorized as "refugees or displaced persons."

Beyond the national identity issue, the government is pursuing other reforms, including economic measures, budget reforms, and infrastructure projects. The Minister announced plans for Chinese companies to build new "worker cities" to address overcrowding and confirmed that a modernized visa system is being developed to balance economic growth with national security.

The current government's actions represent a significant departure from the parliamentary politics that have defined Kuwait for decades. By taking direct action on critical files, especially citizenship, the government is attempting to correct historical "errors" and restore what it sees as the nation's core principles. This move is a direct challenge to the political system that has been in place since the 1960s, signaling a new, more centralized approach to governance.

 Kuwait pushes ahead with economic reforms, major projects under New Kuwait 2035 Vision

 Kuwait is undergoing a significant transformation in its project development to align with the "New Kuwait 2035 Vision." This initiative aims to diversify the economy and modernize infrastructure through legislative reforms, strategic partnerships, and improved transparency.

A key part of this strategy is strengthening economic diplomacy with strategic partners. The Ministerial Committee for Monitoring Agreements with China has held 22 meetings to accelerate cooperation, leading to a signed execution contract for the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port project. Kuwait has also elevated its relationship with Japan to a comprehensive strategic partnership, with a focus on trade, renewable energy, and major projects like the Al-Zour North Power Plant.

Internally, Kuwait is implementing reforms to boost efficiency and accountability. The government is creating a central database of all projects and developing new financing mechanisms to attract up to KD 10 billion in private and foreign investment, aiming to create over 50,000 jobs. Recent legislative changes include a new real estate brokerage system, a smart licensing project, and amendments to the Companies Law.

International institutions are optimistic about Kuwait's economic outlook. The World Bank projects a growth rebound to 2.2% in 2025, driven by major infrastructure projects and non-oil sector expansion. S&P Global Ratings and EFG Hermes also forecast continued growth and improved decision-making, which is expected to boost investor confidence. The government's 2025-26 development plan includes numerous construction projects, further highlighting the country's commitment to its transformative vision.

 — KUNA

 Kuwait raises concern over humanitarian crisis in Sudan

 Kuwait’s Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) has temporarily blocked the online game Roblox in the country. The decision was made following public complaints and concerns from authorities about content that poses a risk to children's safety.

CITRA stated that the ban is a temporary measure to protect users, especially children, from dangerous content, electronic exploitation, and unsafe purchasing practices. The authority is in negotiations with Roblox to ensure the company commits to removing harmful content and implementing adequate safety standards for children before the block is potentially lifted. This move aligns with similar actions taken by countries like Turkey, Oman, and Qatar, which have also previously banned the game over child safety concerns.

   — Agencies

Kuwait blocks ‘unsafe’ Roblox

Kuwait’s Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) has temporarily blocked the online game Roblox. The decision was made following public and official complaints about content deemed dangerous to children.

According to CITRA, the ban is a temporary measure to protect young users from unsafe practices, electronic exploitation, and harmful behavior, as well as unsecure purchasing practices. The authority is in negotiations with the company to ensure they commit to removing offensive or dangerous content and provide sufficient protection for children before the ban is reconsidered. Kuwait joins other countries, including Turkey, Oman, and Qatar, that have previously blocked the game over similar concerns about child safety and inappropriate content.

Parents split over Kuwait Roblox ban

 Kuwait’s temporary ban on the online game Roblox has ignited a debate among parents. Supporters of the ban, like mother Samira Helmy, believe it is a necessary step to protect children from exposure to dangerous content, inappropriate chats, and scammers who may ask for personal financial information.

However, other parents argue that the ban is ineffective and infringes on parental responsibility. Rana Mzanara stated that the issue is weak parental guidance, noting that children will simply find ways to bypass the ban using tools like VPNs. Similarly, Talal Abayjeh believes that it is the parents' role to guide their children, not the government's.

Some parents, like Salma Hassan, suggest a middle ground: managing children's gaming through parental controls and open communication. Hassan recommends monitoring age ratings, limiting screen time, and ensuring children do not interact with strangers. She views the risks associated with online games as an issue that requires proactive parental involvement rather than a government-imposed ban.

  Kuwait Leads GCC Project Growth, Registers Highest Growth

Until August 14 Market size reaches $217 billion thanks to two massive residential projects

According to MEED magazine, the GCC projects index rose for the fifth consecutive month from July 11 to August 14, 2025. It grew by 0.9%, or the equivalent of $39 billion, with the Kuwaiti, Omani, and Qatari markets all showing clear gains in the market value of their projects.

Kuwait led the growth, as its project market expanded by 6.5%, an increase of $13.3 billion. This is the highest growth among all Gulf countries, both in percentage and absolute value. This increase is primarily due to the revival of two massive residential projects: the multi-billion-dollar Al Khairan project, which has a new tender for infrastructure work, and the Al Sabriya project, which also launched a new infrastructure tender. These projects are part of the Public Authority for Housing Welfare's program, which aims to boost urban development and meet the growing demand for housing units.

This performance confirms that Kuwait has become a driving force in the GCC projects market, thanks to a clear vision and precise implementation plans that make it a model for turning huge projects from an idea into a tangible reality that promotes economic development and attracts investment in the region.

The value of projects in GCC markets reached approximately $3.864 trillion by mid-August 2025, recording an overall growth of 0.9%.

Saudi Arabia led the regional scene in terms of the absolute value of projects, with around $1.999 trillion and a slight growth of 0.2%. It was followed by the UAE with a total of $1.036 trillion, but it saw a slight decline of 0.2%. In contrast, Kuwait achieved the highest relative growth rate among the Gulf countries at 6.5%, increasing the value of its projects to $217 billion, supported by the return of major residential projects. The Sultanate of Oman recorded strong growth of 3.5%, raising the value of its projects to $320 billion, driven by strategic agreements in the hydrogen sector. In Qatar, the value of projects increased by 3.8% to reach $235 billion, supported by infrastructure and energy projects, while Bahrain saw a slight decrease of 0.5%, with the total value of its projects stabilizing at $57 billion.

Growth in Oman and Qatar

In the Sultanate of Oman, the projects market grew by 3.5%, an increase of $10.7 billion. This is almost entirely due to progress on the $10 billion liquid hydrogen corridor agreement between Oman, the Netherlands, and Germany, which will require the construction of a massive hydrogen transport and storage network.

As for Qatar, its projects market grew by 3.8%, or the equivalent of $8.5 billion. This was supported by the revival of the plan to implement the Sharq Crossing project across Doha Bay, which is estimated to cost around $2 billion and is overseen by the Qatari Public Works Authority (Ashghal). The market was also supported by the fifth package within the second phase of QatarEnergy's liquefied natural gas (LNG) production sustainability project, which is valued at up to $5 billion.

Situation in Other Markets

The projects markets in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Iran recorded slight gains during the same period, while the UAE and Bahrain saw limited declines in project value. Overall, the projects market in the GCC countries recorded a 0.9% growth, which is the same growth rate achieved by the Gulf markets combined.

Al Anba

Kuwait Participates in 16th Meeting of the Committee of Arab Electricity Experts

To discuss the Arab Common Electricity Market and peaceful uses of atomic energy over two days

Yesterday, the 16th meeting of the Committee of Arab Electricity Experts began at the headquarters of the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States. The meeting is chaired by Egypt and includes the participation of electricity experts from member states, including Kuwait.

In his opening speech, the Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Affairs at the League, Ambassador Dr. Ali Al-Maliki, emphasized the importance of the meeting at this time, especially after some member states ratified the General Agreement on the Arab Common Electricity Market before the agreement enters into force in the near future.

Al-Maliki stressed the importance of the Arab Common Electricity Market and the need to form a secretariat for the market and its specialized committees. He explained that among the important topics on the agenda of the Committee of Electricity Experts is the "Arab Forum on the Prospects for Electricity Generation and Seawater Desalination with Nuclear Energy," which will be held next December in cooperation with the Arab Atomic Energy Agency, the Secretariat of the Arab Ministerial Council for Electricity, and the Jordanian Atomic Energy Commission.

The meeting will discuss the Arab Common Electricity Market and the peaceful uses of atomic energy over the course of two days.

Kuwait is participating in the meeting with a delegation headed by the Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy for Transmission Networks, Eng. Faisal Al-Sumait.

KUNA

All Kuwait Stock Exchange Indices Rise at the Start of Today's Trading

67.75 million shares traded, valued at 17.68 million dinars

The main indices of the Kuwait Stock Exchange rose at the start of today's trading on Wednesday, supported by the growth of seven sectors.

By 9:15 AM Kuwait time, the Premier Market and "General" indices had increased by 0.25% and 0.30%, respectively, while the "Main" index grew by 0.55%. The "Main 50" also rose by 0.71% from Tuesday's closing level.

During this time, the Kuwait Stock Exchange recorded trades worth 17.68 million dinars, distributed over 67.75 million shares, executed through 2,610 transactions.

The session was supported by the rise of seven sectors, led by consumer goods with a 4.33% increase, while four sectors declined, headed by healthcare with a 3.68% decrease. Two sectors remained stable.

Al-Kout stock led the 66 rising stocks with a 9.95% increase, while Al-Taqaddum was at the forefront of the 23 declining stocks with a 9.43% drop. 24 stocks remained stable.

IFA stock, which rose by 2.05%, led the trading activity with a volume of 14.51 million shares and a value of 6.45 million dinars.