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Kuwait implements mandatory exit permit for expatriate workers

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By B Izzak

KUWAIT: Kuwait on Wednesday imposed for the first time an exit permit for private sector expatriate workers, which must be obtained prior to travel and with the full consent of sponsors or employers. The decision takes effect from July 1, according to the Public Authority of Manpower.

The authority said in a statement on X that the measure was imposed through a decision taken by First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, adding that the exit permit is mandatory and must be approved by the official employer or kafeel of the expats. The new move means that private sector expats (article 18 residency) will not be able to leave the country without the approval of their employers, apparently in a bid to prevent expats with financial responsibilities from leaving the country on their own.

The authority said the decision aims to regulate the departures of expat workers, guarantee their compliance with the laws and ensure the rights of both employers and workers. It also aims at minimizing violations linked to the departures of expat workers without an exit permit, the authority said.

The measure has been long implemented in four other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states – except the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Expat workers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain are required to obtain a permit before leaving those countries, with some exceptions. Government employees in Kuwait have long been required to obtain a permit from their ministries or departments before leaving the country.

All expats working in the private sector who want to leave Kuwait and return or leave permanently must obtain the permit, the authority statement said. The workers must submit a request using civil ID number and personal information on the Sahel application or the Ashal portal of the manpower authority to obtain the permit online. The employer must use the Sahel-Business app or the Ashal portal and the system will automatically verify an employer-employee match before issuing the permit.

Officials of the manpower authority said when implemented, the systems will be operational around the clock on all days including public holidays to grant the permit without any delay. People authorized by the employer are able to approve such requests automatically. If a problem occurs, workers must visit the authority’s offices.

Employers largely support the move, citing better business control and reduced absenteeism, though some warn it could increase bureaucracy. Workers, however, fear it may lead to further restrictions, with calls for government oversight or more flexible, selective enforcement.

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NBK warns customers about risks of fraudulent online shopping offers

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KUWAIT: In line with its unwavering commitment to fostering financial literacy and empowering all segments of society, NBK continues to bolster its support for the “Let’s Be Aware” banking awareness campaign. Spearheaded by the Central Bank of Kuwait in collaboration with local banks and Kuwait Banking Association (KBA). As part of its commitment to customer protection, NBK is actively educating the public about fraudulent online shopping offers, often promoted through social media. These scams typically feature links to fake applications or websites that lure victims with enticing discounts and promotions.

Designed to mimic legitimate platforms, these fraudulent sites deceive users into providing sensitive personal and banking details — such as account and credit card numbers — ultimately compromising their financial security. NBK urges customers to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with suspicious links, reinforcing its dedication to safeguarding the community from cyber threats. NBK advises customers to exercise caution and avoid being misled by deceptive shopping deals that promise steep discounts. The bank emphasizes the importance of verifying website URLs and refraining from clicking on links from unknown sources — especially those received via email that advertise offers that appear too good to be true.

Furthermore, NBK cautions customers about the risks of saving credit card details on e-commerce websites or browsers for faster future transactions. The bank highlights that such platforms are susceptible to security breaches, potentially exposing stored banking data to theft. The Bank also emphasizes that it will never request personal information via email, text messages, or phone calls. Additionally, NBK warns customers against responding to such messages, as they are often fraudulent attempts to steal banking credentials, sensitive data, or funds.

NBK remains vigilant in monitoring emerging fraud tactics, educating customers, and providing clear guidance on how to stay protected. Through comprehensive awareness materials shared across its digital platforms, the bank continuously emphasizes the importance of engaging only with trusted links and avoiding interactions with unidentified sources. Harnessing its vast communication capabilities, NBK utilizes all its digital channels — boasting the largest following among Kuwaiti banks — to ensure the widest dissemination of the campaign’s messages, effectively reaching the largest possible audience.

Led by the Central Bank of Kuwait in partnership with Kuwait Banking Association, “Let’s Be Aware” stands as the region’s most comprehensive financial literacy campaign. Aimed at empowering bank customers, the initiative delivers essential education on critical financial topics. Key focus areas include practical steps to prevent fraud, strategies for maximizing banking services, and fostering a strong culture of savings and investment. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions, the campaign strengthens financial security and resilience across Kuwait’s banking sector.

As a leading financial institution in Kuwait and the region, NBK remains a key supporter of the Central Bank of Kuwait’s initiatives aimed at enhancing financial literacy and promoting banking awareness across all segments of society. The bank actively organizes various educational events to keep the community informed about critical banking issues while also investing in specialized training programs for its employees. By strengthening expertise in fraud prevention and financial crime mitigation, NBK reinforces its commitment to safeguarding customers and upholding the integrity of the financial sector.

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Kuwait unveils Bayraktar TB2

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Kuwait unveils Bayraktar TB2

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Ministry of Social Affairs distributes hearing aids to citizens

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KUWAIT: Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah on Thursday announced the distribution of the first batch of hearing aids to citizens with hearing impairments, following a years-long suspension. The initiative aims to support their daily lives and enhance their ability to communicate and integrate into society. Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Dr Al-Huwailah emphasized that hearing aids are vital tools that enable individuals to lead independent lives and engage naturally with their surroundings.

“This is just the beginning,” she said, noting that subsequent batches will follow to meet all pending requests, with priority given based on the order of application. She also underscored the commitment of the Public Authority for the Disabled to continue providing a range of assistive and prosthetic devices—including wheelchairs and other essential equipment—to empower individuals with disabilities both psychologically and socially, and to further support their integration into the community. — KUNA

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