Kuwait Archives - Page 5 of 33 - LexisNexis Middle East

Kuwait: Municipality Plan to Address Encroachments

03/04/202503/04/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Kuwait Times, 27 March 2025: Kuwait Municipality has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing encroachment of state property.

The municipality now has a comprehensive field plan in coordination with relevant authorities to remove violations in the Taima and Sulaibiya areas. A Municipality Spokesperson stated an extensive campaign is set to be launched after violators had been given prior warnings issued that they have unlawfully exploited state land, obstructed public services, and are posing security concerns. The inspection drive is being carried out by the municipality’s encroachment monitoring teams and a range of government entities, including the Ministry of Interior’s Environment Police and the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

News developments

Kuwait: Strict Penalties for Money Laundering Violations

27/03/202527/03/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Arab Times, 24 March 2025: A resolution has been implemented imposing fines up to 10,000 dinars for money laundering violations.

Kuwait Ministerial Decision No. 25/2025, covers penalties and procedures for violations related to money laundering and terrorist financing. The resolution targets designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs) and categorises violations into three risk levels: low, medium, and high. Penalties range from written warnings and license suspensions to fines between 500 and 10,000 Kuwaiti dinars.

The resolution relates to Kuwait Law No. 106/2013 on combating money laundering and terrorist financing. Low-risk violations, such as failure to comply with due diligence for invoices under 3,000 dinars, will result in warnings or license suspensions. Medium-risk violations, including handling cash amounts exceeding 3,000 dinars, will lead to fines ranging from500 to 3,000 dinars. High-risk violations, such as failing to notify authorities about sanctioned individuals, carry fines between 4,000 and 10,000 dinars, with repeat offenders facing potential business bans.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

Publications

Lexis Middle East Law Alert: March-April 2025 Edition

27/03/202527/03/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Welcome to the March-April 2025 edition of Lexis Middle East Law Alert, a premier source for in-depth analysis of the evolving legal landscape across the MENA region. This issue provides a detailed examination of significant legal reforms and updates that are poised to shape the future of law and business in the area.

In this edition, the focus is on pivotal legal reforms and updates within the MENA region, with particular emphasis on the newly enacted Omani Banking Law (Oman Sultani Decree No. 2/2025) and the revised Qatar International Centre for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA) Arbitration Rules. These legislative advancements are designed to modernise existing legal frameworks, bolster global competitiveness, and adeptly incorporate technological innovations within their respective domains. The Omani Banking Law marks a significant shift from a complex regulatory framework to a streamlined legal structure, enhancing the regulation of financial institutions and addressing digital banking. Meanwhile, the updated QICCA Arbitration Rules introduce technology-driven procedures and expedited processes, focusing on customer-centric reforms to improve dispute resolution competitiveness. Despite differences in jurisdiction and sector focus, both reforms reflect a strategic commitment to embracing technological advancements and refining regulatory details to meet contemporary business needs.

Stay informed with Lexis Middle East Law Alert, your source for the latest legal developments and insights from across the MENA region.

FEATURE: BANKING REVOLUTION

Sakshi Puri and Asad Vellani from Al Tamimi & Co discuss the implications of Oman Sultani Decree No. 2/2025 on the country’s banking and financial sectors.

FEATURE: AIMING FOR BEST PRACTICE

Alexander Whyatt, Neil Donald, and Omid Mousavi from Eversheds Sutherland outline the new arbitration rules implemented by QICCA, aimed at making the arbitration process more efficient and straightforward.

IN-HOUSE PROFILE: POWER, POLICIES, AND LEGAL PROWESS

Padideh Ahmadi, Group Legal Counsel at Energetech, shares valuable insights into industry trends, regulatory developments, and the art of balancing legal risks with business strategy, drawing from her journey from law school to spearheading commodity and renewable energy deals.

IN-HOUSE PROFILE: PRACTITIONER PERSPECTIVE

Hayden Morgan from Pinsent Masons discusses the implications of a new UAE law aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change.

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

An overview of significant appointments and career advancements in the legal sector across the region, emphasising key changes transforming the professional environment.

CONTRACT WATCH: CLOUD COMPUTING

David Walker, Partner at ASAR – Al Ruwayeh & Partners in Bahrain, explains Bahrain Law No. 1/2025, which was introduced in January 2025 to regulate timesharing in residential units and establish a legal framework for such arrangements.

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_March-April 2025

Explore the past editions of the Lexis® Middle East Law Alert and stay up-to-date with the latest news! Click the links below for instant access to older editions.

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_January-February 2025

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_October-November 2024

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_August-September 2024

Lexis Middle East Law Alert_May/June 2024

TAX AND FINANCE ROUND-UP

Stay updated on the latest tax and financial developments in the region, with a focus on the recent UAE Tax Disputes regulations.

LEGAL ROUND-UP

Keep informed with our legal round-up, featuring the latest DIFC regulations concerning its judicial and administrative roles.

LAW MONITOR

Discover the recent legal progressions in the GCC, with a focus on the newly implemented competition law regulations in the UAE.

Want to receive more content? Subscribe to our newsletter here!

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit, https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

News developments

Lexis Middle East HR Alert – March 2025 Edition

24/03/202524/03/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Welcome to the March 2025 edition of Lexis Middle East HR Alert, your indispensable guide to understanding the dynamic legal and business environment affecting HR in the Middle East. As the region continues to evolve and harmonise with international standards, it is crucial for HR professionals, legal advisors, and business leaders to remain informed about the latest developments and trends impacting the workforce. This issue highlights significant amendments to Saudi and UAE labour laws, emphasising enhanced worker protection and strict compliance measures.

In Saudi Arabia, updates to Cabinet Decision No. 219/1426 clarify the enforcement roles of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Ministry of Interior, with increased fines for unauthorised employment ranging from 200,000 to 500,000 Riyals. The UAE’s Federal Decree-Law No. 9/2024 introduces amendments aimed at improving employer compliance, notably imposing fines of up to one million AED for employing workers fictitiously, with potential multiplication based on the number of workers involved. Additionally, Oman has implemented a new scheme requiring monthly employer contributions to the Social Insurance Organisation, ensuring expatriate employees receive their end-of-service gratuity dues more efficiently. Our comprehensive analysis delves into the implications of these legislative changes for HR practices across the region, exploring how these updates will affect compliance strategies, employee relations, and overall workforce management.

Stay ahead of the curve with Lexis Middle East HR Alert, as we provide you with the insights needed to navigate the complexities of HR in the Middle East.

Happy reading!

This edition features a diverse range of content, including:

Feature: A More Flexible Approach

Ben Brown and Sarit Thomas of Clyde & Co explore the greater adaptability afforded to employees and employers following the revisions to the ADGM’s Employment Regulations, set to be implemented on April 1, 2025.

Trend Setter: Recruitment

Mary Rintu from NYK Law analyses how the shift towards prioritising practical skills over experience in hiring may offer both opportunities and challenges for employers in the UAE.

News Round-up: Covering Recent Key Developments – Region-Wide

Keep up-to-date with the most recent regional developments, including a consultation on DIFC Employment Law.

Immigration Focus

Deepen your knowledge of the changing immigration and visa rules in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, emphasising the grace period for visa violators in Qatar.

Law Changes: New and Proposed MENA Laws

Balall Maqbool, Hamood Al Rawahi, and Mehdi Al Lawati of DLA Piper Middle East discuss Oman Ministerial Decision No. 13/2025 and the newly introduced regulations on part-time work in Oman.

Case Focus: QFC Employment Standards Office v Meinhardt BIM Studios LLC [2024] QIC (F) 24

Umar Azmeh, Registrar at QICDRC, highlights the importance of this case, comparing it to Donoghue v Stevenson [1932] AC 562, a landmark in negligence law. The QFC Employment Standards Office (ESO) is crucial in enforcing the QFC Employment Regulations 2020 through its investigations and guidance.

Enrich your understanding of the HR landscape and stay up-to-date with the latest trends, cases, and policies through the newest issue of Lexis Middle East – HR Alert.

For all the latest industry updates and developments, opt for a free HR Alert subscription!

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit, https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_March 2025

Have you read the Lexis® Middle East HR Alert – previous editions? Click the links below to access and read these editions.

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_May 2024

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_July 2024

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_October 2024

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_January 2025

HR Profile: People and Technology

Uchenna Okpara Izuagba, Chief Human Resources Officer at Gastronaut Hospitality, asserts that prioritising employee needs and leveraging technology are essential for success in the UAE hospitality industry.

In-House Profile: Practitioner Perspective

Sarah Malik, Pavithra Rajendran, and Sara Nassif from SOL International outline the main aspects of UAE health and safety laws and the National Standard for the Occupational Safety and Health Management System (OSHMS).

Policy Pointers: Sponsorship transfers

Sarah Khasawneh, Associate at Pinsent Masons, highlighted that recent legal reforms in Qatar have changed the sponsorship transfer process by eliminating the need for NOC. Employees can now switch jobs without their current employer’s approval, improving worker mobility.

Moves and Changes

Stay updated on the newest business trends, significant appointments, and promotions in the region to stay connected with the market’s key influencers.

News developments

Kuwait: New Traffic Law, Community Service and Stricter Penalties

20/03/202520/03/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Arab Times, 12 March 2025: Kuwait’s recently enacted Kuwait Decree-Law No. 5/2025 introduces significant amendments, including alternative penalties that can replace traditional sanctions at the discretion of the judiciary.

This new approach allows judges to convert penalties into community service, which is tailored to the violator’s profession and qualifications.

Such service can last up to a year, requiring eight hours of work per day without pay.

In cases where a serious violation results in damage to public property, the violator may be required to repair the damage at their own expense.

Judges also have the authority to impose multiple service penalties, which take effect immediately upon the issuance of the ruling.

The law maintains vehicle impoundment in 27 cases, but introduces “physical impoundment,” where a tracking device is installed in the vehicle, and fees are imposed based on the violation.

If the conditions of spatial impoundment are violated, a fine of 50 dinars is imposed, and the vehicle is moved to a traffic impoundment garage.

Additional fines apply if the tracking device is damaged or lost. Violating physical impoundment is considered a serious offence, requiring the violator to designate a fixed location for the vehicle.

A regulatory decision will soon limit the number of vehicles citizens and residents can own before the new traffic law takes effect on 22 April 2025.

Concerns about potential discrimination have been addressed, clarifying that these measures are within the state’s sovereign authority to regulate in the public interest.

The accuracy of AI cameras in detecting violations is reported to be 99%, with human oversight ensuring precision.

Violations such as not wearing a seatbelt, using a mobile phone, exceeding speed limits, or placing children in the front seat are documented by AI and reviewed by humans.

Notifications are sent to violators within 48 to 72 hours.

Citizens and residents can file complaints about violations through the Ministry of Interior’s “Sahl” application or by visiting the Violations Investigation Department.

Complaints are thoroughly reviewed, and violations may be canceled if the claimant’s rights are proven.

Ministry patrols are equipped with cameras to verify claims of wrongful violations, ensuring the rights of both security personnel and violators are protected.

Addressing concerns about the severity of fines under the new law, it has been clarified that Kuwait’s fines are not the highest among neighbouring countries, with some GCC countries imposing stricter penalties.

The General Traffic Department conducted extensive studies and public opinion polls before finalising the law, which was reviewed by the judiciary, the Fatwa and Legislation Authority, and the Public Prosecution.

The resulting fines aim to deter reckless driving and serious violations, such as running red lights, which endanger lives.

The 2025 Unified Traffic Week for GCC countries will carry the slogan “Driving without Accidents,” continuing the theme from 2024.

It has been highlighted that most accidents result from driver inattention, often due to mobile phone use.

Under the new law, settlement orders for violations now range from 15 to 150 dinars, up from the previous range of 5 to 50 dinars.

Habitual violators, especially those committing serious offences, will be referred to court without the option of settlement.

Vehicle owners are held responsible for violations, even if someone else was driving at the time.

If a vehicle owner disputes a fine, they must identify the driver during the violation.

An example was shared of a woman fined 30,000 dinars for violations committed by her son’s friends, who were driving her vehicle without her knowledge.

Drivers and front-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts, with vehicle owners held accountable for compliance.

With the new law’s implementation, patrols and control rooms have observed increased adherence to seat belt regulations.

It is now rare to see drivers or passengers without seat belts.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

News developments

Kuwait: Minister Inspects Cooperative Societies in Jahra for Regulation Compliance

13/03/202513/03/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Arab Times, 6 March 2025: The Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs has conducted a visit to several cooperative societies in Jahra Governorate to assess their adherence to ministerial regulations during the holy month of Ramadan.

This visit is part of ongoing efforts to maintain price stability, ensure the availability of high-quality essential products, and enforce laws and regulations in cooperative markets for the benefit of both shareholders and consumers.

During the visit, the minister engaged with officials from the cooperative societies to discuss the mechanisms in place for price control and the availability of Ramadan-related products.

The minister has assured them that the ministry will continue to monitor the performance of these societies to ensure the best possible services for shareholders and consumers.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

News developments

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax – Spring 2025 Edition

07/03/202507/03/2025
by Hannah Gutang

The Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax Spring Edition offers an in-depth analysis of the swiftly evolving tax landscape within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This edition underscores the trend where the introduction of new tax laws is often rapidly succeeded by a cascade of related legislative changes. Among the key topics discussed is the Real Estate Transaction Tax (RETT) in Saudi Arabia, which was initially introduced in 2020 and has undergone several amendments. The magazine delves into the recent formalisation of law on this subject and the ensuing consultation on new Implementing Regulations, with insights from experts at Riad & Riad.

The edition concludes with an examination of the increasing adoption of tax automation software in the UAE, driven by rising requirements and support. Overall, the magazine highlights the imperative for taxpayers in the GCC to remain vigilant and adaptable to the rapid and significant changes in tax laws.

FEATURE: YOUR RIGHTS ON RETT

Dr. Fatma Salah, together with Mohamed Riad and Amera Gamal from Riad & Riad, discusses the introduction of the Real Estate Transaction Tax (RETT) in Saudi Arabia in 2020. The upcoming legislation and its Executive Regulations are anticipated to provide more detailed guidance on the tax’s application.

FEATURE: DOWN TO BRASS TACKS ON DMTT

Asrujit Mandal from BDO explores the dynamic shifts in regional legislation and guidance surrounding the Domestic Minimum Top Up Tax. With Bahrain at the forefront, its pioneering approach could potentially shape and inspire strategies in other GCC countries, all in alignment with Pillar Two initiatives.

TAX NEWS ROUND-UP

This round-up outlines the most recent major changes in tax agreements and regulatory updates across the region, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the current developments.

PRACTICAL FOCUS: VAT AND CRYPTO MINING

Shailesh Kumar (Associate Partner), Mradul Gupta (Associate Director), and Megha Lohia (Assistant Manager) from PKF UAE highlight the rising prominence and global acceptance of cryptocurrency and emphasise the increasing importance of understanding the tax implications associated with its use.

TAX PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

What’s Next with VAT? While Corporate Tax and Transfer Pricing modifications are making news, Harsh Bhatia, Director of VAT at Grant Thornton UAE, points out that there are also upcoming changes in the UAE’s VAT system.

ANY QUESTIONS?

Is tax automation required in the UAE? Dhana Pillai from DP Taxation Consultancy examines the requirements, assistance, and strategies that are boosting the adoption of tax automation software in the UAE.

Want to receive future editions? Subscribe here!

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East Visit, https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax_Spring 2025

Have you read the Lexis® Middle East Gulf Tax – Past editions? Click the links below to access them.

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Winter 2024

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Autumn 2024

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Summer 2024

Lexis Middle East Gulf Tax | Winter 2023

News developments

Kuwait: Eases Residency Transfers for Expats Between Public and Private Sectors

06/03/202506/03/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Arab Times, 2 March 2025: The Interior Ministry has announced the removal of previous conditions that restricted the transfer of residency between government and private sector employment.

This decision eliminates the need for expatriates to align their new job roles with their educational qualifications or the nature of their previous work when switching sectors.

Expatriates can now transfer their residency from government sector work to private sector work, and vice versa, without the previously mandated requirements.

The Expatriates’ Residency Law and its executive regulations do not require the verification of professions for individuals seeking to transfer between sectors, nor is there any legal basis for rejecting such requests.

Under the new rules, expatriates are no longer required to ensure that their educational qualifications match their new job roles or adhere to the nature of their previous government sector work.

This change simplifies the process, allowing expatriates to transition to the private sector with ease, following standard procedures and without the bureaucratic hurdles that previously complicated such transfers.

Previously, the transfer of residency was contingent on the new profession being compatible with the expatriate’s educational background and the nature of their prior government sector work.

This restriction limited opportunities for expatriates to explore roles in the private sector and often involved cumbersome administrative processes.

The new decision abolishes these constraints entirely.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

News developments

Kuwait: New Work Permit Regulations Enforced by PAM

27/02/202527/02/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Arab Times, 24 February 2025: The Public Authority for Manpower has announced a significant amendment to the rules and procedures for granting work permits.

This change, introduced through a ministerial resolution, adds a new clause to the existing regulations.

The amendment specifically prohibits the registration of new files for companies if any of their existing files have been suspended, pending the resolution of their legal status.

Suspension cases include scenarios such as inactive licences, licences on blocked files, and licences without a registered address.

The resolution further restricts these companies from undertaking certain actions, including adding new licences, updating licence data, adding new workers, or estimating labour needs.

For more news and content, try Lexis Middle East. Click on lexis.ae/demo to begin your free trial of Lexis® Middle East platform.

You can also explore the legal landscape by subscribing to our Weekly Newsletter.

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

News developments

Lexis Middle East HR Alert – January 2025 Edition

25/02/202524/03/2025
by Hannah Gutang

Welcome to the January 2025 edition of Lexis Middle East HR Alert, your essential resource for navigating the evolving legal and business landscape impacting HR in the Middle East. As the region progresses and aligns with global standards, HR professionals, legal experts, and business leaders must stay updated on the changes and trends affecting the workforce.

This issue highlights significant amendments to Saudi and UAE labour laws, emphasising enhanced worker protection and strict compliance measures. In Saudi Arabia, updates to Cabinet Decision No. 219/1426 clarify the roles of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the Ministry of Interior in enforcing labour law penalties, with increased fines for unauthorised employment ranging from 200,000 to 500,000 Riyals. The UAE’s Federal Decree-Law No. 9/2024 introduces amendments aimed at improving employer compliance, notably imposing fines of up to one million AED for employing workers fictitiously, with potential multiplication based on the number of workers involved.

Additionally, Oman has implemented a new scheme requiring monthly employer contributions to the Social Insurance Organisation, ensuring expatriate employees receive their end-of-service gratuity dues more efficiently.

Stay informed with our in-depth analysis of these changes and their implications for HR practices in the region.

Happy reading!

This edition features a diverse range of content, including:

Feature: New Rules and Bigger Penalties

The amendments to Articles 54 and 60 of the UAE Labour Law, introduced by Federal Decree-Law No. 9/2024, may appear minor but are expected to have a substantial impact, as explained by Sara Khoja, Ben Brown, and Sarit Thomas from Clyde & Co.

Trend Setter: Succession Planning

Ali Al Assaad from Dentons examines how the new Dubai Executive Council Decision No. 81/2024 is positioning the Dubai government as a leader in effective succession planning practices.

News Round-up: Covering Recent Key Developments – Region-Wide

Stay informed on the latest regional updates, including changes to residency visa laws announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security UAE, which now allow working mothers to sponsor their children’s residency if the family head violates residency laws.

Immigration Focus

Enhance your understanding of the evolving immigration and visa regulations across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, with a focus on the United Arab Emirates’ visa extensions for GCC residents and dependents of GCC nationals.

Immigration Focus: Nationalisation in Qatar

Antoine Salloum from Vialto Partners discusses the recent updates to Qatar’s nationalisation policies.

Law Changes: New and Proposed MENA Laws

Mohsin Khan and Hayat Rafique from Al Tamimi explore significant changes to the Saudi Labour Law and anticipate further details in upcoming Executive Regulations.

Case Focus: DIFC Case No. 044/2021 on 1 October 2024

Highlighted by Hamdan Al Shamsi Lawyers & Legal Consultants, this case addresses racial discrimination and is the first to consider victimisation since the DIFC employment law was strengthened in this area.

Enrich your understanding of the HR landscape and stay up-to-date with the latest trends, cases, and policies through the newest issue of Lexis Middle East – HR Alert.

For all the latest industry updates and developments, opt for a free HR Alert subscription!

Want to learn more about Lexis® Middle East? Visit, https://www.lexis.ae/lexis-middle-east-law/.

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_January 2025

Have you read the Lexis® Middle East HR Alert – previous 2024 editions? Click the links below to access and read these editions.

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_January 2024

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_May 2024

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_July 2024

Lexis Middle East HR Alert_October 2024

HR Profile: HR Leadership in Law

Vera Vadakkumpatt, HR Manager at Stephenson Harwood LLP, shares insights on promoting employee wellbeing, diversity, and organisational growth.

In-House Profile: Practitioner Perspective

Dhana Pillai from Cygal Attorneys discusses the UAE’s pioneering requirements for female representation on the boards of all public and private Joint Stock Companies.

Policy Pointers: Anti-discrimination

Rachel Mannam, Associate at Hamdan Al Shamsi Lawyers, provides expertise on the UAE’s Federal Decree-Law No. 34/2023, enacted in September 2023, which criminalises all forms of discrimination, hate speech, and blasphemy, although it does not specifically address workplace discrimination in the private sector.

Moves and Changes

Keep up with the latest business developments, major appointments, and promotions throughout the region to stay current with the influential figures in the market.