logo
National Guard releases detainees on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha

National Guard releases detainees on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha

Arab Times04-06-2025
KUWAIT CITY, June 4: The National Guard has announced the release of servicemen currently serving disciplinary sentences in honor of the upcoming Eid Al-Adha holiday.
The decision was issued by Undersecretary of the National Guard, Lieutenant General Hashem Al-Rifai, in line with directives from the Chief of the National Guard, Sheikh Mubarak Humoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and Deputy Chief Sheikh Faisal Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.
In a statement released Wednesday, the National Guard explained that the move aims to allow the released individuals to spend the festive occasion with their families.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Your Highness the Prime Minister ... When will Kuwait change?
Your Highness the Prime Minister ... When will Kuwait change?

Arab Times

time18 hours ago

  • Arab Times

Your Highness the Prime Minister ... When will Kuwait change?

Before the new era's measures, which halted squandering, tampering with all aspects of the State, and chaos in government positions, the State wasted many opportunities and even made it appear to be experiencing premature aging and deficits in several sectors. Without a doubt, the tampering has affected the sovereign wealth and all arms of Kuwaiti financial power. It has affected the backbone of the State. Therefore, after the measures taken in the new era, attention should be given to the Future Generations Fund, social security, oil revenues, and commercial and industrial activities, which, along with other aspects, constitute the gross domestic product (GDP), in addition to openness. Your Highness, the Prime Minister, as a financial and economic expert, we speak frankly to you. 'It is now time to consider strengthening the financial industry of Kuwait and to maximize its soft power.' When the Future Generations Fund was established, it was partly for the future and long-term investment, as HH the late Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad (may Allah have mercy on him) had envisioned. Before that, Kuwait was the first in the world to establish an investment fund in 1953. This has accumulated over the past decades. Ironically, Norway, which established a pension fund in 1990, is far ahead of Kuwait despite the recent introduction. Why? Without a doubt, the shortsightedness that citizens are 'specialized' in is the reason. China, with its wealth of great minds, did not accept this. In 1978, it hired the British expert of Iraqi origin – Elias Korkis – who made a strategy that turned China into the second-largest economy in the world today. Similarly, Singapore transformed itself from a poor country rife with corruption into the largest productive economy in Asia and an internationally renowned financial center. Your Highness, the world is changing, and many countries, including those in the region, have far outpaced Kuwait because they tapped local and foreign talents and utilized their sovereign wealth in various productive sectors, both domestically and internationally. At home, they invested in vacant land, built service facilities, and even entertainment cities that helped boost the GDP. Today, the Social Security Fund serves around 150,000 pensioners. In the future, it will serve thousands more. It suffers from an actuarial deficit, which is easy to address. It has liquidity that can be invested locally; which is much better than losing that money, as it happened in Lebanon. Undoubtedly, oil revenues have an investment function as well – to help develop industrial facilities, not only domestically in the oil industry, but also in many other fields. This requires experts who do not necessarily wear the 'ghutra' and 'egal', but rather come from abroad and have succeeded in other countries. Today, there is no longer pressure on the government – whether from members of Parliament or influential figures. It has become imperative to begin the process of recovery, with development based on a vision to enhance the GDP on one hand, and achieve economic stability on the other hand. This can be done by leveraging Kuwait's soft power tools in the region and the world, building a sound financial system, and preventing the future exploitation of sovereign wealth for reckless adventures. Your Highness the Prime Minister, the path of finance and the economy in America is managed by experts who are not necessarily from the country itself. They are honored and they receive their dues. In Kuwait, there are oil reserves, sovereign wealth, social security, and the Ministry of Finance; that is, if it has people who know how to maneuver and profit. Your Highness, the Prime Minister, all other countries in the world employ the best minds of other nationalities to serve their economies and enhance their GDP. Therefore, applying the popular proverb, 'All roads lead to Rome,' has become a necessity. What matters is the decision. This is the time to say that our country, Kuwait, has really changed.

Kuwait Visa shift ignites optimism
Kuwait Visa shift ignites optimism

Arab Times

time4 days ago

  • Arab Times

Kuwait Visa shift ignites optimism

KUWAIT CITY, Aug 6: The statements made by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah to the daily regarding the expansion of visit visas of various types were warmly welcomed by economic, security, commercial, and real estate sectors, who viewed them as a hopeful sign for revitalizing markets and overcoming the recession. Economic experts described these measures as a qualitative shift toward a more open policy, enhancing Kuwait's potential to reclaim its position on the Gulf's map of attractive destinations, especially amid intensifying regional competition for tourism and investment. Observers noted that the impact extends beyond the economic sphere to social and humanitarian aspects by easing psychological stress on residents and enabling families to reunite, which will naturally contribute to greater security, stability, and reduced crime rates. Security expert Major General Eng. Hamad Al-Surai'a confirmed that extending the visit period to three months, combined with new measures, most notably the availability of electronic visas through the 'Kuwait Visa' platform, will boost tourism and strengthen Kuwait's competitive position in the region. He stressed that offering visas online reduces opportunities for manipulation, as only applications that meet all requirements are accepted, improving the accuracy and speed of processing. Major General Al-Surai'a highlighted the professionalism and sophistication of security personnel at airports, noting that complaints are minimal, and emphasizing that the staff of the Ministry of Interior perform their duties efficiently while upholding the country's reputation. Meanwhile, former acting Director of the General Department of Immigration, Bader Al-Hammadi, said the facilities announced by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef regarding visit visas represent a qualitative shift toward greater tourism openness. He explained that the cancellation of the national carrier and educational qualification requirements, along with allowing multiple visa issuances per year and renewals for up to six months or more, will position Kuwait competitively on the Gulf tourism map, especially given the country's favorable weather during spring, fall, and mild winter seasons. Allowing expatriate workers to bring their families through family visit visas contributes to enhancing psychological stability and reducing negative behaviors such as harassment or loitering. Expanding these facilities will have a direct positive impact on the clothing, gifts, real estate, and food markets, thereby stimulating the local economy. Al-Hammadi highlighted the importance of promoting a culture of good reception at border crossings, noting that airport officers generally exhibit professionalism and respect. However, he warned that even rare instances of poor behavior can leave a negative impression on visitors, emphasizing that a smile is an essential part of Kuwait's image to arrivals. In the same context, real estate expert Qais Al-Ghanim said the government is currently undergoing a phase of reforms that are beginning to yield positive results on multiple levels, creating an encouraging environment for investors and visitors to come to Kuwait. He pointed out that expanding the range of facilities for family, business, and tourist visits will help revitalize all economic sectors, particularly the real estate sector, while also boosting retail and service activities. Al-Ghanim affirmed that this step primarily benefits expatriate workers by providing them with a greater sense of family connection and psychological stability. Al-Ghanim noted that concerns about the impact of increased visits on security are no longer justified, especially given the Ministry of Interior's great efforts, which have resulted in a marked decrease in crime rates and traffic violations. Furthermore, Director of the Three Pyramids Travel and Tourism Company Ahmed Hamed expects an official decision within days to cancel the requirement for visitors on visit visas to travel via the national carrier. He believes this step, along with extending family visit visas to three months, marks a major shift in facilitating visitor entry and boosting airport activity. Hamed highlighted that the decision will help stimulate various economic sectors, particularly real estate and rentals, due to increased demand for apartments and higher visitor spending, which will positively impact the national economy. He explained that granting visitors the freedom to choose their airline enhances travel flexibility and aligns with global trends. The 'visit visa' facilities are among the most successful measures to stimulate the tourism and real estate markets. Kuwait has real potential to become a prominent regional destination due to its moderate climate, stable security, and comprehensive services. In addition, economic expert and former head of the Kuwait Contracting Companies Union, Dr. Salah Bourseli, confirmed that the statements made by Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef to the Editor-in-Chief of Arab Times and Al-Seyassah newspapers Ahmed Al-Jarallah have been widely circulated in all social media platforms. He explained that the facilities accompanying business, family, and tourist visits must be complemented by important measures to boost tourism in Kuwait, such as developing recreational villages, parks, and gardens to keep pace with tourism activities in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, especially given Kuwait's historical reputation as the 'Pearl of the Gulf.' Dr. Bourseli emphasized the importance of opening the door for permanent work visas to stimulate the labor market in contracting companies, noting that the labor shortage has contributed to increased salaries for construction workers. Dr. Salah Bourseli said, 'Notifying applicants of any security restrictions by specifying the type of restriction through the Visa Kuwait platform facilitates the visit visa process. This allows expatriates to resolve security issues and then resubmit their visa applications online. This procedure also reduces congestion at immigration departments and eases the process for applicants'. He added that the platform eliminates bureaucracy and red tape, removes the need for intermediaries, and ensures that all transactions are conducted legally, preventing any manipulation.

Kuwait advances environmental vision; execution in early stages
Kuwait advances environmental vision; execution in early stages

Kuwait Times

time4 days ago

  • Kuwait Times

Kuwait advances environmental vision; execution in early stages

Government strategies target carbon neutrality, desertification, waste reform KUWAIT: Environmental sustainability has taken center stage in Kuwait's national agenda, with the government intensifying efforts over the past two years to outline long-term strategies aimed at reducing pollution, preserving natural resources, and tackling climate change. Backed by the country's leadership, including directives from His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Kuwaiti Cabinet has been actively reviewing the national low-carbon roadmap — a key element of the country's sustainable development policy. Minister of Oil Dr Tareq Al-Roumi and officials from the Environment Public Authority (EPA) recently presented the roadmap's vision, which aims to boost national resilience to climate change through innovation, green investment, and circular carbon economy solutions. The roadmap remains in its early implementation phase. Kuwait has also expanded coordination with China through memorandums of understanding focused on low-carbon systems, renewable energy, waste recycling, and wastewater treatment infrastructure. These agreements are expected to support the country's broader environmental targets under its 'New Kuwait 2035' vision. Carbon neutral by 2060 In line with that vision, the EPA in November 2023 announced the 'Low Carbon Strategy 2050' in cooperation with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and other state sectors. Kuwait became the second Gulf country to submit such a strategy, reaffirming its commitment to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. The strategy outlines Kuwait's long-term goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 through expanded use of renewable energy and reduced reliance on fossil fuels. As of now, implementation details have not been made public. Progress has included the release of Kuwait's first State of the Environment report, published last year in cooperation with UNEP. The report offers an in-depth review of seven key issues: climate change, waste management, land and water resources, air quality, biodiversity, and marine and coastal environments. It also examines Kuwait's institutional and legal environmental frameworks, though follow-up actions on its findings have not yet been disclosed. The EPA has since announced four strategic environmental projects: The national environmental strategy; a monitoring and enforcement system for the national waste management strategy; a national strategy to combat desertification; and a plan to enhance environmental data management. Details on these projects, which are under development, are not publicly available, but they are expected to guide future policy. They aim to strengthen public-private cooperation, improve performance indicators, and enable better data sharing across agencies to support long-term environmental planning. Waste management strategy One of the most detailed initiatives is the National Waste Management Strategy 2040 (KNWMS), announced in mid-2024. It was developed by the EPA in partnership with the German Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety, and Energy Technology (UMSICHT), following a five-year study — one of the most comprehensive in the Gulf region to date. The project team analyzed waste generation trends, studied 20 major landfill sites, and interviewed over 400 waste stakeholders. They also tested hundreds of waste samples and installed 100 electronic 'e-noses' in odor-intensive areas to monitor air quality. The resulting strategy sets 28 national goals, including reducing landfill rates and increasing recycling of construction and municipal solid waste. A new geo-database and digital monitoring tools were created to help agencies track and manage waste more efficiently. While the strategy provides a robust framework, its implementation is still in the early stages. Renewable energy in-progress Efforts to integrate sustainability into everyday life are also reflected in Kuwait's development plans. A national program for environmentally harmonious living areas promotes efficient resource use and pollution reduction, with a focus on building eco-friendly cities that use green infrastructure and smart technology. The Fourth Kuwait Master Plan (2040) supports green buildings and improved urban sustainability. Many of these initiatives remain at the policy or pilot-project level. On the legislative front, Kuwait's environmental protection law outlines measures to safeguard ecosystems, reduce pollution, and promote biodiversity. It includes provisions to identify pollution sources, prevent harmful practices, and impose penalties for violations. At the 2025 Kuwait Sustainable Energy Conference, the government reaffirmed its plan to derive 50 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2050. Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy Dr Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem said Kuwait is pursuing 'carefully planned projects' that align with both international climate commitments and national development goals. However, specific milestones or progress updates are yet to be reported. Kuwait's renewable energy plans fall into three categories: Long-term initiatives such as the Shagaya project; medium-term projects like Abdaliya; and small-scale efforts under a national energy code requiring all facilities to produce at least 10 percent of their electricity from renewable sources. The Shagaya complex, developed via a public-private partnership, is expected to deliver 1,600 MW in two phases — 1,100 MW in the first and 500 MW in the second. Combatting desertification Other government bodies are also involved in environmental efforts. The Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR) is leading afforestation campaigns across Kuwait, including in northern and southern border areas. Drought-resistant trees like Sidr and Tamarix are being planted to reduce dust pollution and combat desertification. Public parks and green spaces are being expanded, though comprehensive data on completion rates or outcomes has not been made available. Urban green infrastructure is expanding through public gardens, some spanning entire residential districts. Projects for natural reserves and eco-tourism are under discussion, with some initiatives underway. International organizations have acknowledged Kuwait's recent environmental actions. UNEP's Regional Director for West Asia, Sami Dimassi, highlighted Kuwait's commitment to developing 'responsive strategies that meet both current needs and future goals.' Meanwhile, Ghada Al-Taher, the UN Resident Coordinator in Kuwait, praised the country's engagement in efforts to combat desertification, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. — Agencies

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store