Kuwait in a Week

UN Expert Praises Kuwait’s ‘Incredible’ Support for Citizens

During her official visit to Kuwait (Oct 1–8, 2025), Attiya Waris UN Independent Expert on foreign debt and human rights, commended Kuwait’s “incredible” support for its citizens, calling it “one of the most generous social systems in the world.” She highlighted the country’s extensive welfare provisions, noting that over 85% of Kuwaitis work in the public sector with high salaries and short hours—ensuring stability but limiting productivity and private-sector growth.

Waris urged fiscal reform to address rising deficits, projected to average 8.9% of GDP from 2025–2028, and potentially reaching 14% in 2025–2026. She emphasized the need to “retool the system” so citizens contribute back to the state that has long supported them.

Addressing Kuwait’s large expatriate population (over 60%), Waris stressed the importance of economic inclusion. She advocated for affordable services and entertainment to keep income circulating locally, enhancing social cohesion and resilience.

She praised Kuwait’s National Development Plan  and alignment with the UN 2030 Agenda urging investment in youth skills and entrepreneurship. Waris also recommended gradual implementation of a fair taxation system to build public trust and revenue transparency.

Kuwait’s low public debt (3% of GDP in 2024, projected 7.3% in 2025) was noted as a strength, alongside the introduction of Decree Law No. 60{:target="_blank"} on debt ceilings. She praised Kuwait’s Zakat and development funds as vital tools for social cohesion and global solidarity. KT

 Sumud Activists Thank Kuwait, Recount Ordeal

Two Kuwaiti activists who were detained by the Zionist entity after joining an international flotilla to deliver aid to Gaza thanked the Kuwaiti leadership and people, adding they are undergoing medical checkups in Turkey before returning home. Dr. Mohammed Jamal and Abdullah Al-Mutawaa were among hundreds of activists on board the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was intercepted en route to the besieged Palestinian territory.

“We’ve now arrived at the hospital because there are some medical tests we need to undergo due to the very harsh detention conditions we experienced,” Jamal said in a video shared with Kuwait News and Kuwait Times from Istanbul. The two activists, along with more than 130 other participants, were freed Saturday following diplomatic efforts by Kuwait and other regional partners. An evacuation flight brought them safely to Istanbul.

Both men described harsh treatment during their detention but said they were deeply grateful for the support they’ve received from Kuwait’s leadership and people. A third Kuwaiti participant, Khalid Al-Abduljader, remains in Zionist entity custody. “Our focus now is on our brother Khalid Al-Abduljader and his safe return before we head back, God willing,” said Jamal.

Al-Mutawaa said he was moved by the national response to their ordeal. “I thank God we made it out from very brutal hands and terrible treatment,” he said. “I was astonished — God bless — by what happened in Kuwait, from the people, the leadership and the government. Endless thanks, as vast as the sky and the sea we were in.”

He added that Kuwait’s Embassy officials in Turkey were already waiting when they arrived and have continued to follow up on their recovery. “They keep calling to make sure we’re fine,” he said. “My thanks to everyone, especially our brothers at the consulate in Istanbul.”

The participants in the flotilla — from more than a dozen countries — said they were subjected to violence and “treated like animals”. Jamal said the group was held under the sun for hours before being taken to Ashdod port then detained for three days without adequate food or medication. “When we arrived to Ashdod port, we got treated very badly from the police. Some of the people got beaten, but a lot of swear words,” he told Anadolu Agency. “They told us to drink the same water we washed with.”

He described how Zionist forces confiscated all the activists’ belongings, except their passports. “Some people had cardiac medicine or epilepsy medicine, but they weren’t given their medication,” he said. Dr Jamal said public attention helped protect the activists during their ordeal. “The people around the world kept their eyes on the flotilla,” he said. “We need to keep our eyes on Gaza, because they are doing what they cannot do to us in Gaza.”

Abdulrahman Ghazal a flotilla participant from Bahrain who was with Al-Mutawaa and Al-Abduljader on the same boat, said more than 25 soldiers stormed their ship. “They came pointing all their weapons and spotlights at us,” he said in a video posted on Instagram. “One soldier saw me wearing a cap with the Palestinian flag and told me to take it off. I refused — and they beat me. They beat me several times. ... Their hatred was unnatural.”

Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya said diplomatic efforts are continuing to secure Al-Abduljader’s release. No official statement has been issued explaining why he remains in detention.   

Namaa Charity Distributes Food and Shelters in Gaza

Khaled Al-Shammari, Head of the Projects and Relief Sector at Namaa Charity, said the initiatives were part of Kuwait’s long-standing humanitarian role in assisting those in need. “The society has implemented a package of urgent relief projects in Gaza out of awareness of the escalating humanitarian suffering there and in affirmation of Kuwait’s original role in aiding the distressed and supporting those affected by crises,” Al-Shammari said.

He added that the food baskets contained essential items to meet basic needs under Gaza’s harsh living conditions, benefiting families struggling to secure daily necessities. “The association gave special attention to clothing, implementing a project that benefited more than 500 people to help families cope with the difficult climatic and living conditions,” he explained.

Al-Shammari noted that 106 emergency tents were also set up to “secure dignified shelter that preserves human dignity and provides the minimum requirements for stability.” He emphasized that all projects were carried out in partnership with organizations approved by the Foreign Ministry to ensure that aid reaches those most in need “as quickly as possible and with the highest levels of transparency and reliability.”

“Kuwait’s charitable work has never been random or based on individual efforts but a well-coordinated institutional system,” Al-Shammari said, adding that this initiative reflects “Kuwait’s integrated approach to meeting urgent needs of our brothers in Gaza.”

He extended his gratitude to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for his continued support of humanitarian causes and to His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah for his vision in strengthening Kuwait’s humanitarian role. Al-Shammari also praised the cooperation of the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, saying their coordination “ensures the continuity and effectiveness of charitable work locally and internationally.” — KUNA 

  Kuwait's Namaa Charity Opens Medical Clinic in Chad

Kuwait's Namaa Charity inaugurated a medical clinic in the suburbs of N'Djamena, Chad’s capital, to serve over 1,000 patients monthly in three underserved villages.

Head of development and relief Khaled Al-Shamri told KUNA the two-story, 268-square-meter facility includes clinics for women and children, a pharmacy, an emergency room, a lab, and housing for doctors, aiming to provide sustainable primary care.

Al-Shamri noted the project addresses severe shortages in Chad's healthcare system, where there are only 0.085 doctors per 1,000 people, according to the World Bank.

He added that the clinic was launched after a field study with local partners to ensure sustainability and community involvement.

Al-Shamri thanked Kuwait's leadership and relevant ministries for supporting humanitarian work, affirming the country's commitment to its global humanitarian role. 

Kuwait Minister of Social Affairs Honors "Namaa Charity"

Abdulaziz Al-Kandari, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Namaa Charity (affiliated with the Social Reform Society), expressed his profound thanks and appreciation for the Ministry of Social Affairs' honor of Namaa Charity. This recognition took place during the Ministry's patronage of the Gulf Forum for the Quality of Life for the Elderly, which was organized as a tribute to the generation that made history and laid the foundation stones for Kuwait's authentic society.

Al-Kandari stated that this honor is not just a badge for "Namaa," but a reflection of an authentic Kuwaiti vision that sees the charitable sector as a true partner in shaping the landscape of care and development, especially towards the elderly—those who toiled for our comfort and educated us so we could rise.

He added, "We extend our sincerest thanks and gratitude to the Minister of Social Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila, who, by honoring Namaa Charity, embodied the message that official Kuwait values loyalty and blesses every sincere effort that serves humanity. We also specifically thank the Undersecretary, Dr. Khalid Al-Ajmi, for his diligent follow-up and continuous support for institutional charitable work."

Al-Kandari stressed that Namaa's patronage of this forum stems from a firm conviction that charitable work is only complete when it touches the hearts of those who have dedicated their lives to giving. He emphasized that the modernity of its buildings does not measure the upliftment of a society, but by the nobility of its values and the dignity of its people, especially from those who have reached old age and whose souls yearn for kindness, honor, and companionship.

He continued, "The elderly are not just an age group; they are the memory of the nation, the soul of the family, and the source of goodness. It is an act of loyalty to restore their consideration in policies, plans, and community initiatives, not as a burden, but as a source of wisdom and stability."

Al-Kandari concluded his statement by saying: "Namaa Charity will remain wherever there is impact, present in all fields of loyalty, and raising the banner of solidarity and mercy. This honor obligates us to continue and to excel, not because we look for applause, but because we believe that giving, when coupled with a pure intention, creates an impact that does not fade." – Al- Mujtama 

 Kuwait Hailed as ‘Humanitarian Superpower’ by UN Official

United Nations Under-Secretary-General Tom Fletcher praised Kuwait as a “humanitarian superpower” during a lecture at the Saud Al-Nasser Al-Sabah Diplomatic Institute, commending its global leadership in aid and diplomacy. He highlighted Kuwait’s enduring partnership with the UN and its record of generosity, calling it one of the world’s largest per capita humanitarian donors.

Fletcher emphasized Kuwait’s whole-of-society approach, including support from the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, NGOs, and the private sector. He paid tribute to the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for his legacy of compassion and global solidarity.

On current crises, Fletcher lauded Kuwait’s principled stance on Gaza being among the first to call for a ceasefire and advocate for civilian protection. He warned of rising global humanitarian needs, with over 300 million affected and 2025 potentially deadlier for aid workers.

Fletcher outlined the UN’s “Humanitarian Reset” to boost efficiency, innovation, and local empowerment. KRCS Director Fawaz Al-Mazrouei affirmed Kuwait’s mission as deeply rooted in national values, pledging continued global support and partnership. – KUNA

 Kuwaiti Relief Plane Departs for Gaza with 10 Tons of Food Aid

The 18th Kuwaiti relief plane departed Wednesday as part of the second Kuwaiti airlift under the ongoing humanitarian campaign “Kuwait by Your Side”  to support the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. The aircraft, carrying 10 tons of essential food supplies, headed to El-Arish Airport in Egypt ahead of delivery to Gaza.

Chairman of the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS)  Khaled Al-Mughamis told KUNA  prior to departure that Kuwait, under the directives of its wise leadership, continues to stand firmly by the Palestinian people, reflecting the deeply rooted values of solidarity, compassion, and humanitarian commitment that define Kuwaiti society. Al-Mughamis said the second Kuwaiti airlift to aid Gaza embodies the unity and cooperation of official institutions and charitable organizations across Kuwait. He noted that the assistance forms part of the country’s continuous efforts to ease the suffering of civilians facing dire humanitarian conditions in the besieged enclave.

He expressed appreciation to all entities contributing to the success of this humanitarian mission, which reaffirms Kuwait’s steadfast role in supporting the Palestinian people. He added that KRCS continues to coordinate closely with the Kuwaiti Embassy in Egypt and the Egyptian Red Crescent Society to ensure aid reaches those most in need. The KRCS prepared additional humanitarian supplies on Wednesday, provided by the Manar Al-Sabil Charity Association, to meet Gaza’s urgent food needs. This comes in addition to previous relief efforts that included four planes sent to Jordan and 14 to Egypt.

With the latest dispatch, the total amount of aid delivered through the second Kuwaiti airlift to Gaza has reached 360 tons of essential, long-lasting food items produced in Kuwait in cooperation with the Kuwait Flour Mills and Bakeries Company. Al-Mughamis reaffirmed that Kuwait’s humanitarian assistance will continue until the suffering of the Palestinian people is alleviated, underscoring the nation’s enduring commitment to humanitarian principles and its leading role in international relief efforts.   – KUNA

 Kuwait: Human Dignity a Cornerstone of National and International Policies  

Kuwait reaffirmed that human dignity has always been a cornerstone of its national and international approach, guided by a Constitution that upholds justice, equality, and freedom as the basis of governance.

This came in a statement delivered by Second Secretary of Kuwait’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Wafiqah Al-Mulla, during the Third Committee’s general discussions on Tuesday, highlighted national efforts to empower women, youth, children, and the elderly.

She noted women comprise 58 percent of the workforce and 28 percent of leadership roles, with growing participation in the judiciary, police, and military, supported by national committees such as the Women and Business Committee and the National Committee for implementing UNSC Resolution 1325.

On child protection, she said Kuwait established the Supreme National Committee for Child Protection, launched child support hotline 147, and enhanced reporting and response mechanisms to violence.

For the elderly, more than 36,000 benefit from free healthcare and priority services under comprehensive welfare programs. Al-Mulla said Kuwait ranked 40th in the 2023Youth Development Index and launched the Youth Excellence and Creativity Award. Young Kuwaitis also gained global recognition, including through the UNESCO-Jaber Al-Ahmad Prize.

She noted efforts to combat domestic violence, including a national committee, shelters, and hosting over 150 awareness workshops. The diplomat reiterated Kuwait’s support for global efforts on social development and its participation in the upcoming World Social Summit in Doha this November.

Concluding, she condemned the ongoing Israeli occupation’s blatant violations against the Palestinian people, reaffirming Kuwait’s support for a two-state solution and the establishment of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. — KUNA

   Kuwait Celebrates Role as Arab Capital of Culture and Media 2025

Over the past nine months, Kuwait has hosted a vibrant series of cultural and media events marking its selection as the Arab Capital of Culture and Media 2025, a title awarded by ALECSO and the Council of Arab Information Ministers{:target="_blank"} in recognition of Kuwait’s enduring leadership in Arab thought, creativity, and media.

The celebrations began with the 30thAl-Qurain Cultural Festival, followed by the launch of the Pulse of Culture project by the Public Authority for Youth and Kuwait University, featuring 38 activities to enrich student creativity. A symposium titled Culture in Kuwait Before Oil explored the nation’s heritage, while Kuwait’s participation in the Venice Architecture Biennale showcased innovation in design.

Cultural reforms included renaming the State Encouragement Award to the State Creativity Award and reorganizing theatrical performance regulations. The National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) honored Amal Abdullah and Saleh Al-Gharib with the Gulf Creatives Award. Kuwait also participated in the Jerash Festival in Jordan, highlighting traditional crafts.

On July 30, the Kuwait Towers were added to the Arab Heritage List, confirmed by ALECSO on August 1. The summer concluded with the Summer Book Fair, reinforcing Kuwait’s role as a beacon of Arab culture, intellect, and innovation.  — KUNA 

Kuwait Marks Teachers’ Day

Schools across Kuwait celebrated Teachers’ Day on Sunday in an atmosphere of appreciation and dedication, honoring educators for their vital role in shaping future generations. School administrations organized a range of activities, including speeches of gratitude, student performances, and recognition of distinguished teachers who have made significant contributions to advancing education and achieving its goals (source).

ACERG celebrates
On the same day, the Arab Center for Educational Research for the Gulf States (ACERG) hosted a panel discussion to mark World Teachers ’Day, observed annually on October 5. ACERG Director Dr. Mohammad Al-Shuraikah, in his opening address, reaffirmed the center’s commitment to engaging with teachers and educational practitioners, emphasizing that their insights are crucial in guiding the center’s strategies and objectives. He extended his congratulations to teachers in Kuwait and across ACERG member states, wishing them continued success in their important mission.

The panel brought together academics, officials, school leaders, educational specialists, and teachers from Kuwait and other Gulf countries, alongside experts from ACERG. Keynote lectures were delivered by UAE educational expert Dr. Samira Al Hosani, Dr Shaye Al Shaye, and Dr Aisha Al Harthi from Sultan Qaboos University in Oman.

Discussions centered on three main themes: defining the teaching profession and its core professionalization pillars based on leading international models; examining the state of teacher preparation in the Gulf and the key challenges facing training programs; and enhancing the societal status of teachers through media, policy, and public engagement to reflect their essential role as partners in national development. The event aimed to promote scientific dialogue on professionalizing teaching in Gulf states by exchanging global expertise, critically analyzing current practices, and exploring legislative and regulatory frameworks that strengthen the professional and social standing of teachers. — KUNA  

Nazaha Refers Officials to Public Prosecution

It urged all individuals subject to financial disclosure regulations to ensure accuracy and transparency when completing and submitting their statements within the legally prescribed deadlines. The authority emphasized that adherence to these rules is both a legal and ethical obligation that safeguards public funds, reinforces integrity, and strengthens public confidence in state institutions. — KUNA