AGP Executive Report

Aviation Disruption Update: Air Arabia says it is still operating a limited schedule from Kuwait International Airport’s Terminal 4 after Terminal 1 was damaged, urging passengers to double-check flight status with the airline and airport before travelling. Commercial Enforcement: Kuwait’s Commercial Control Department sealed a Capital Governorate warehouse over 588 prohibited items tied to violations of trade and public order rules, with the case referred for legal action. Regional Diplomacy: Kuwait’s Deputy FM Hamad Al-Mashaan met Iraq’s FM Fuad Hussein on the sidelines of the Arab League Council in Cairo to review bilateral ties and regional files. Education Reform: The Ministry of Education opened online registration for the new “Masar” course system, with 12 secondary schools set to implement it and applicants needing to meet grade requirements. Public Safety: Fire safety inspections in Shuwaikh Industrial Area led to closures and warnings for 74 establishments. Drug Crackdowns: Interior Ministry announced arrests in Salmiya over 163 heroin bags, plus another operation involving cocaine, hashish, and other seized substances. Sports: Kuwait’s U18 athletics team won three medals in Cairo, while the Gulf Cup squad was named and Kazma kept pace in the Zain Premier League. Residency Rules: Kuwait amended foreigners’ residence regulations, including 10-year fee-free permits for some people whose citizenship was revoked, and updated limits on time spent outside the country.

Courts & Rights: Kuwait’s Court of Appeals overturned a disability decision, ordering PADA to recognize a man’s moderate, permanent visual impairment under the disability law. Education Reform: The Ministry of Education opened online registration for the “Masar” course system (Sept 7–10) and began the new academic year with teachers and admin staff; meanwhile, 7,019 teachers face termination as Kuwait cuts about KD 42 million in costs. Public Safety & Enforcement: Interior arrested suspects in two drug cases, including 163 heroin bags in Salmiya and a Farwaniya stable raid involving cocaine, hashish, Lyrica and firearms; General Fire Force closed facilities and warned 74 in Shuwaikh’s fire-safety campaign. Residency Rules: Kuwait amended foreigners’ residence regulations, granting up to 10-year fee-free residency to some people whose citizenship was revoked, plus updated rules on time abroad. Economy & Tech: NBK launched the third NBK Tech Academy cohort; Kuwait-based edtech Dawraty raised $2m seed funding from Qatar Development Bank, valuing it at $10m. Sports: Kuwait won three medals at the Arab U18 Championships in Cairo and named a 27-player squad for the Gulf Cup in Jeddah. Environment: The Earth Sciences Society urged concerted action to improve air quality amid dust and sandstorm risks.

Residency Overhaul: Kuwait amended the Foreigners’ Residency Law, creating a new 10-year regular residency route for people whose citizenship was withdrawn under Article 13/Clause 4 and for those who regained another nationality, with exemptions from the usual six-month absence limit and annual residency fees; dependents face KD10 per person yearly for spouses/children/parents and KD300 for other relatives, and domestic helpers can be sponsored under the new status. Local Governance & Services: Teachers and admin staff reported for the 2026-2027 school year as schools finalized arrangements, while a power fault hit Hawally and Mubarak Al-Kabeer and electricity was later restored. Public Order & Courts: Kuwait’s Cassation Court upheld prison terms in political cases tied to “false news” posts on X, rejecting a permissible-criticism defense. Security & Drugs: Police arrested two in Salmiya with 163 heroin sachets, and a separate crackdown campaign netted residency violators, wanted people, and seized narcotics. Business & Tech: Dawraty, a Kuwait edtech startup, raised a $2m seed round led by Qatar Development Bank; Gulf Bank opened a new Fahad Al-Salem Street branch. Sports & Youth: Kuwait added three medals at the Arab U18 athletics meet in Cairo, and handball and squash federations outlined Asian Games and 2026-27 season plans. Weather & Culture: Autumn’s first phase began with milder nights, and the Dhofar film festival opened with Kuwait among participating countries.

Residency Overhaul: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry has published new rules granting up to 10-year residency to people whose Kuwaiti citizenship was withdrawn under Article 13(4) of the 1959 decree—and to dependents who later regained their original nationality or obtained another one—while exempting them from annual residency fees and allowing longer absences under the updated framework. Local Administration: The Ministry of Social Affairs has started interviews for 200 Kuwaitis qualified for cooperative-sector supervisory roles, aiming to fill 90 posts (30 financial controllers, 60 administrative controllers) ahead of Sept 23-24 assessments. Courts & Speech: Kuwait’s Court of Cassation upheld prison sentences in political cases tied to social media posts, rejecting a “false news” defense and stressing that deliberate false rumors can harm national interests. Security Sweep: Police campaigns across areas including Al-Salmi and Amghara arrested residency and wanted offenders, seized narcotics-related cases, and issued traffic and food-safety actions. Drugs & Crime: Authorities arrested suspects in Salmiya over 163 heroin sachets, while another case involved a Farwaniya stable raid with cocaine, hashish, Lyrica, meth, and a firearm. Citizenship Changes: The official gazette also reported citizenship certificate withdrawals for three individuals. Daily Life: Teachers and admin staff began the 2026/27 school year with fingerprint attendance, and power was restored after outages in Hawalli and Mubarak Al-Kabeer. Sports: Kuwait’s handball team begins its final Asian Games buildup for Aichi-Nagoya, and racer Sheikh Jaber Athbi Al-Sabah took third in the UK F4 round.

Power & Utilities: Kuwait’s Ministry of Electricity restored power after outages hit parts of Hawally and Mubarak Al-Kabeer following a technical malfunction at main substations. Border Security: Kuwait Customs at Nuwaiseeb seized about 43.5kg of suspected chewing tobacco derivatives hidden in a vehicle’s rear paneling and referred the driver for legal action. Residency Rules: The Ministry of Interior introduced amendments allowing some people who lost Kuwaiti citizenship to apply for regular residency for up to 10 years, with annual residency fees waived for the new category. Labour Guidance: PAM warned workers not to mix up labour complaints with reports of labour-law violations, stressing the different channels and purposes. Road Safety Crackdown: Authorities released footage of a reckless driver whose sports car was crushed after drifting; the case was referred to prison and the vehicle was confiscated. Regional Focus: Kuwait is participating in Arab Towns Organization meetings in Dhofar, Oman, with municipal officials discussing urban planning, environment and transport. Charity & Oversight: Kuwait marked International Day of Charity as officials backed a draft decree-law to regulate charitable and humanitarian work and ensure aid reaches beneficiaries.

Regional Security: Kuwait says its air defences intercepted Iranian missile and drone attacks, as Iran targets U.S. bases in Kuwait and the UAE and the wider U.S.-Iran standoff keeps oil-shipping fears alive around the Strait of Hormuz. Defense Cooperation: Kuwait and Russia discussed stronger security and emergency-response ties, while Kuwait and Egypt pushed ahead on military logistics and naval coordination. Economy & Finance: The government approved regulated borrowing from the Future Generations Fund, with experts urging restraint to protect the fund’s solvency; Burgan Bank also launched a rights issue of up to KD 50m to boost capital. Public Safety & Crime: Kuwait arrested an Egyptian expatriate over alleged forged salary certificates; police also nabbed suspects in a KD 200,000 investment scam and dismantled a diesel-theft network involving 41 arrests. Traffic & Regulation: Home vehicle impoundment starts from Sept 6 for certain violations, with warnings against tampering; reckless driving cases can lead to jail and vehicle confiscation. Society & Health: Kuwait marked International Day of Charity with a draft decree-law aimed at tighter oversight; a forum highlighted rapid advances in pediatric hematology and oncology. Business & Culture: KCCI sought stronger trade and investment links with Lesotho; NBK ranked among the top Arab banks in The Banker’s 2026 list; Primark announced store openings in Bahrain and Qatar.

Iran-U.S. Escalation: Iranian media reported explosions near Iran’s Kharg Island oil hub, with claims a tanker was hit by U.S. projectiles, as the wider Gulf conflict keeps flaring. Kuwait Air Defences: Kuwait said it intercepted Iranian missile and drone attacks, with the Iranian army claiming strikes on U.S. bases at Ahmad al-Jaber Air Base in Kuwait and Al Minhad in the UAE. Diplomacy & Humanitarian Messaging: On the International Day of Charity, Kuwait’s Social Affairs Minister backed a draft decree-law to regulate charitable and humanitarian work, stressing oversight to protect aid recipients. Humanitarian Diplomacy: Kuwaiti officials said charity is increasingly used as a diplomatic channel, extending relief and recovery support across the region. Culture & Soft Power: Kuwait’s envoy to the U.S. highlighted DAI’s Al-Sabah Artifacts Collection in a major Islamic art exhibition at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Local Governance & Safety: Kuwait reported 32 food safety violations in Hawally, busted a diesel theft network with 41 arrests, and issued a road closure between Bayan and Mubarak Al-Abdullah until dawn Sunday. Business & Economy: Kuwait’s KGOC launched a tender for a gas processing facility tied to the Dorra offshore gas project, while Gulf economies recalibrate foreign investment amid war-driven uncertainty.

Kuwait Security & Air Defences: Kuwait says its air defences intercepted Iranian missile and drone attacks, with the military urging residents to follow safety instructions as explosions were linked to interceptions. Regional Tensions: The wider US-Iran conflict escalated again after Iran launched missiles and drones at US-linked targets, while Kuwait documented the attacks in its Grade 10 history curriculum. Food Safety Crackdown: Kuwait’s Hawally inspections reported 32 food safety violations, with seized items destroyed and legal steps taken. Crime & Enforcement: Interior Ministry dismantled a diesel theft network, arresting 41 suspects and seizing 38 vehicles tied to siphoning and resale. Local Disruption: A road closure was announced between Bayan and Mubarak Al-Abdullah until dawn Sunday. Workplace Incident: A construction worker was injured after falling into a basement pit at Shuwaikh Industrial Area. Public Life & Community: Kuwait’s Awqaf minister met Catholic Church officials to reaffirm tolerance and peaceful coexistence. Business & Travel: Akasa Air launched direct Mumbai–Hanoi flights, with Kuwait City listed among its international network.

Iran–Kuwait Escalation: Kuwait says its air defences intercepted Iranian missiles and drones early Thursday, while the Foreign Ministry condemned the attacks as a breach of sovereignty and vowed the right to defend vital facilities. Community Under Pressure: Kuwaiti Iranians say the war and a crackdown have increased scrutiny and fear, with some businesses quietly removing “Iran” from names to avoid backlash. Wedding Strike Probe: The US is investigating a deadly Iranian wedding blast, with analysis suggesting a direct hit by a US munition; Iran has held funerals and reported rising civilian casualties. Education & National Narrative: Kuwait’s Grade 10 history curriculum now includes pages documenting the Iranian attacks since Feb 28, detailing impacts on infrastructure and Kuwait’s response. Local Security Cases: Police shut down an unlicensed massage operation in an apartment, arresting five expatriates, and a separate incident in Sulaibikhat followed a “glance” that spiraled into a brawl. Business & Lifestyle: Primark announced store opening dates in Bahrain (Sept 23) and Qatar (Oct 29) with Alshaya. Regional Travel: Akasa Air launched direct Mumbai–Hanoi flights, adding Kuwait City to its international network.

Gulf Security Escalation: Kuwait reported intercepting Iranian missile and drone attacks early Thursday, as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the strikes as a breach of sovereignty and reaffirmed the right to self-defense under international law. Regional Fallout: Iran said it hit US bases in Kuwait and the UAE with missiles and kamikaze drones, while the US said it was investigating a separate report of a US strike on a wedding in Iran after Iranian officials raised the death toll to five. Local Justice: Kuwait’s Criminal Court acquitted a citizen in a minor rape case after doubts over proof, while another nationality fraud probe resurfaced after DNA findings allegedly linked a decades-old identity scheme to multiple false parent records. Public Safety & Health: The Ministry of Health shut down four private clinics over licensing violations, and drug-control units arrested suspects in border smuggling cases after seizing Captagon, meth, cocaine and other drugs. Community & Culture: Kuwait reiterated religious tolerance in talks with the Catholic Church, while a charity drive began distributing school bags and uniforms to needy families. Economy & Trade: Kuwait’s courts collected KD 4.46 million in fees in June, and Duqm Port received one of the world’s largest Ro-Ro vessels from China carrying vehicles for GCC markets including Kuwait.

Iran-Kuwait Tensions: Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned repeated “heinous” Iranian attacks, saying they breach sovereignty and international law, while Kuwait’s army said air defences intercepted hostile missiles and drones and urged the public to follow safety instructions. Regional Fallout: Iran’s army claimed it struck US bases in Kuwait and the UAE, targeting communications, depots and hangars, as Qatar also condemned the renewed attacks and backed Kuwait’s right to protect itself. Civilian Toll Spotlight: The renewed fighting has revived concerns over civilian harm after reports of a US strike hitting a wedding in southern Iran, prompting an ICC referral by Iran’s Red Crescent. Digital Identity Warning: PACI warned My Kuwait Mobile ID users not to approve authentication requests unless they are tied to actions they initiated. Local Community Pressure: An AFP report said a Persian restaurant in Kuwait removed “Iran” from its name amid sensitivity and pressure on Kuwait’s Iranian residents. Trade & Logistics: Port of Duqm welcomed one of the world’s largest Ro-Ro car carriers, with part of the shipment earmarked for GCC markets including Kuwait.

Iran-US Escalation in the Gulf: Iran launched missile and drone attacks hitting U.S. interests and allies across Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan after U.S. strikes on Iranian targets, with Kuwait reporting a drone strike that sparked a fire at a residential complex and no injuries. Kuwait’s Response: Kuwait condemned the attacks as a grave breach of international law and reaffirmed its right to defend sovereignty; its ambassador to the UN called for deterrent action and accountability. Hormuz Pressure: The U.S. said it escorted 40 ships carrying about 18 million barrels through the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran and U.S. trade accusations of targeting shipping and mines. Local Safety & Crime: A Kuwaiti citizen was detained in Jleeb for alleged DUI, assaulting officers and damaging a police car; another case involves a 15-year-old shot in the eye with a pellet gun; and authorities are probing a neighbor dispute over alleged removal of a CCTV camera. Traffic Tech: Kuwait will start smart home vehicle impoundment from Sept 6 for violations including reckless driving, seatbelt and phone use. Health & Society: Kuwait launched its winter vaccination drive; meanwhile, a report highlights rising marriage costs for young Kuwaitis. Sports: Kuwait’s handball team wrapped up preparations in Slovenia for the Asian Games, and Al-Nasr made an early Zain Premier League statement with two straight wins.

Middle East Escalation: Kuwait is on high alert after renewed Iranian missile and drone attacks linked to US strikes on Iranian targets, with Kuwait’s army saying air defences are intercepting incoming threats and warning residents to follow safety instructions. Local Impact: A hostile drone attack sparked a fire in a Kuwait City residential complex; firefighters brought it under control with no injuries reported, while sirens and interception sounds were attributed to defence operations. Diplomatic Response: Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attacks as a blatant violation of sovereignty and UN principles, stressing its right to take necessary measures to protect citizens and stability. Regional Ripple Effects: Bahrain also reported drone interceptions amid the wider Iran–US back-and-forth, while Iran’s IRGC claimed strikes on US-linked bases including Ali Al Salem in Kuwait. Economy Watch: Oil shipment disruptions are hitting regional trade, with reports that Middle East fighting delayed crude deliveries to India, forcing refiners to seek costlier alternative cargoes. Domestic Policy: Kuwait will roll out a smart home vehicle impoundment system from Sept 6, letting some violators complete impound periods at home via a device installed at the violation site. Social Protection: A ministerial decision grants Protection Centers Department employees judicial police powers under the domestic violence law, enabling them to detect cases, record reports, and refer them to prosecutors.

Air Defence & Public Safety: Kuwait’s Armed Forces said any “explosions” heard are from air-defence interceptions of hostile missiles and drones, urging residents to follow official safety instructions as regional tensions flare. Public Finance Update: Kuwait approved a decree allowing the government to borrow from the Future Generations Fund to support state finances, with Cabinet approval and strict caps tied to fund returns and total loan limits. Cabinet Moves: The Cabinet approved a draft decree-law to regulate media across publishing, digital ads and social media, and also backed a decree-law on government sukuk sent to the Amir for final approval. Traffic & Smart Services: From Sept 6, a smart home-impound system will let drivers move vehicles to a designated location after a device is fitted, with KD 10 installation and KD 2 per day. Health Regulation: The Health Ministry issued decisions tightening rules on narcotic and psychotropic medicines and their handling on aircraft and ships, alongside new cosmetic procedure requirements. Economy & Oil: Kuwait’s Cabinet highlighted financial resilience and reform-driven growth in non-oil revenues, while KPC reported a sharp rise in capital spending for 2025/26. Sports & Culture: Kuwait Club beat Qadsia 1-0 in the Zain Premier League; Kuwait shooters won at a Grand Prix in Italy; and the Summer Cultural Festival 18 wrapped up with a musical tribute to Arab stars.

Traffic & Smart Services: Kuwait’s General Traffic Department will start a smart home vehicle impoundment system on Sept 6, fitting a device at the violation site so the impoundment clock begins at midnight; owners can move the car to a designated home location, paying KD 10 for installation plus KD 2 per day, and later get a Sahel app notification before completing release at approved sites. Health Regulation Overhaul: The Ministry of Health tightened rules on cosmetic procedures and narcotic/psychotropic medicines, including licensing and monitoring for narcotic plant cultivation, controls for dispensing on aircraft and ships, and new requirements for managing complications. Drug Crackdown Recognition: Interior officials honored Drug Control teams for Kuwait’s biggest Lyrica manufacturing and distribution bust, urging continued vigilance and full follow-up on all involved parties. Food Safety Actions: Food authorities destroyed 88kg of meat of unknown origin and shut down another facility after inspectors found spoiled products, thawed meat sold as fresh, hygiene and licensing violations. Kuwait–Algeria Diplomacy: Kuwait’s ambassador presented credentials in Algiers and conveyed condolences over Algeria’s forest fires, reaffirming strong bilateral ties. Sports Medicine & Athlete Care: Kuwait’s Sports Medicine Center highlighted its long-running rehabilitation services for athletes, using advanced technology and specialized specialists. Commercial Inspections: Kuwait Municipality expanded inspections across sectors, warning businesses of fines and closure for operating without proper licenses or approvals. Kuwait–India Partnership: Kuwait and India are set to deepen cooperation under their Strategic Partnership, with defense, energy, trade, investment, and healthcare among key areas.

Health Regulation Overhaul: Kuwait’s Health Ministry tightened rules on cosmetic procedures, setting authorized specialties, physician qualifications, laser-use controls, and added psychological assessments for some patients, alongside tighter complication reporting. Drug Control Crackdown: The Interior Ministry honored Drug Control General Department officers for the biggest Lyrica manufacturing-and-distribution bust in Kuwait’s history, with promises of full investigation and no cover-ups. Narcotics Rules Updated: New MoH decisions regulate narcotic/psychotropic medicines, including licensing, storage, tracking, and restrictions on cultivation to licensed government and research bodies. Cancer Care Upgrade: A new cancer epidemiology and registry department was set up at the Kuwait Cancer Center to build a national database and publish annual reports. Food Safety Actions: Inspectors destroyed 88kg of meat of unknown origin in Farwaniyah and shut another facility in Capital after spoiled food and thawed meat sold as fresh were found. Regional Security: Kuwait condemned Iran’s drone attack on the UAE and missile strikes on Jordan, reiterating solidarity and support for defensive measures. Sports & Culture: Kuwait’s Sports Medicine Center highlighted athlete rehabilitation services; Kuwait also wrapped up a cultural festival with a musical tribute to Arab stars.