KUWAIT CITY, June 12: The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy intends to construct fuel lines feeding the Nuwaiseeb Power Plant for generating electricity and distilling water using two types of fuel — gas and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Sources explained that the fuel lines project is part of preparations for the Nuwaiseeb Power Plant, which is aimed at securing the electricity grid. Sources said this is one of the important future projects that will supply the grid with around 7,200 megawatts and 180 million imperial gallons of water in two phases — the first has a capacity of 3,600 megawatts. Sources stated that the project to construct fuel pipelines is expected to be tendered in the current fiscal year — under established procedures and regulations — as a limited and non-divisible public tender.

They added the project aims to meet the station’s growing need for various types of fuel; including the construction of the necessary pipelines for all types of fuel, and modernizing fuel receiver systems and pipelines to operate the station’s system and equipment; thereby, improving fuel efficiency. They indicated that the Nuwaiseeb station will operate under the ‘combined cycle’ system; which produces more energy with the same amount of fuel, reduces the amount consumed per unit, reduces emissions compared to the unit’s output, and enables future expansion and operation with more than one type of fuel.

By Mohammad Ghanem
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff 

KUWAIT CITY, June 12: Municipal Council member Fahad Al-Abduljader has submitted a proposal to prepare regulations on the construction and design of bus stops. Al-Abduljader explained in the introduction to his proposal that it is in line with the approach of the State to ensure sustainability and improve the quality of life. He said it focuses on providing a civilized and safe environment for passengers through stations that adhere to modern architectural and environmental standards and reflect national identity. He explained that the proposed regulations cover the use of solar energy to operate lighting and fans, the adoption of environmentally friendly materials, the provision of electronic screens to display information, and the establishment of standardized dimensions to guarantee quality implementation and ease of maintenance. He revealed that the goals include supporting State efforts to transform into smart cities and pave the way for the private sector to participate in the development of public transportation infrastructure. He added that this step signals the beginning of the development of a comprehensive regulatory framework that will serve as a reliable reference for the construction of bus stops throughout the country.

By Inaas Awadh
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff

Beneficial owner registration hits 98% as Kuwait strengthens Anti-money laundering measures.

KUWAIT CITY, June 12: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced on Thursday that 98 percent of commercial entities in Kuwait have completed registration of their beneficial owners (BEN) following the ministry’s deadline on Wednesday. This high registration rate reflects strong compliance with regulatory requirements aimed at enhancing transparency and combating money laundering.

The ministry’s spokesperson, Abdullah Al-Harz, informed Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that a total of 3,007 commercial entities failed to disclose their beneficial owners by the deadline and will face financial penalties estimated at KD 3 million (approximately USD 9.8 million). Fines start at KD 1,000 and can escalate to KD 10,000 for continued non-compliance.

Al-Harz detailed that 148,108 out of 151,115 active commercial entities completed the beneficial owner registration during the allotted period. Among these, 111,838 out of 114,339 active personal companies registered, achieving a 97.8 percent registration rate. Sole proprietorships numbered 35,066, with 34,701 registered, representing a 98.9 percent compliance rate. Joint-stock companies accounted for 1,710 active entities, with 1,569 registered, reflecting a 91.7 percent rate.

He emphasized that the 3,007 companies that did not meet the registration deadline will be penalized according to applicable legislation.

The spokesperson also highlighted the ongoing importance of adhering to transparency controls and regulations to improve Kuwait’s business environment in line with international standards.

Earlier this month, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry set a final 10-day deadline for institutions and companies to disclose the identity of their beneficial owners — defined as the individuals exercising ultimate control over the companies — to avoid legal actions and fines.

This initiative is part of Kuwait’s broader commitment to strengthening transparency and complying with global standards against money laundering and terrorist financing. The ministry stressed that disclosure reflects companies’ seriousness in maintaining organized data and enhancing their credibility.