The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has introduced seven new commercial activities to its unified classification system with sea taxis and marine tourism among those now formally recognized for licensing purposes. The additions form part of implementing Decree-Law No. 61 of 2026 on maritime establishments and floating units which the Ministry of Interior announced after its publication in Kuwait Today. That decree issued 44 articles to update legislation in line with general maritime laws and the maritime trade law specifically.
According to the Ministry of Interior the law covers all maritime establishments and floating units not exceeding 150 tons that are registered in Kuwait regardless of form or purpose whether fixed or mobile. It also includes traditional vessels of any kind. The ministry granted a six-month grace period for all such units to regularize their status and meet the updated conditions.
The Ministry of Interior stated that a permanent committee formed by ministerial decision will prepare the terms and controls governing all aspects of maritime establishments and floating units. This committee will specify the commercial activities yacht clubs and associated conditions. It will further outline the shipping agent’s responsibility toward foreign traditional vessels fishing boats and cargo ships.
For recreational trips and diving the decree sets six specific conditions the Ministry of Interior announcement indicated. These include providing life jackets appropriate to the age and weight of every person aboard plus two spares. Additional requirements address safety equipment and operational standards to protect lives and property in territorial waters.
The Ministry of Information reported in November 2025 that the Visit Kuwait platform had launched as the unified national gateway for tourism events activities and visas. The platform offers an interactive map exclusive deals trip planning tools and real-time notifications in both Arabic and English. Officials positioned the development as advancing Kuwait’s 2035 vision by diversifying income sources and activating the national economy.
The Ministry of Interior data highlighted that the law toughens penalties for violations including reckless navigation operating without a license and sailing under the influence of alcohol drugs or psychotropic substances. It also regulates speed limits prohibits entry into restricted zones and mandates approved safety gear on all vessels. Enforcement follows completion of all related regulatory and technical procedures.
The permanent committee under the Ministry of Interior will issue further detailed regulations on licensing and oversight in the coming period the announcement noted. Operators must obtain approvals from competent authorities before practicing any commercial maritime activity under the updated framework. The measures seek to limit repeated serious infractions while fostering safer organized marine environments.
