Interior Minister pushes tech-driven traffic reform, tighter licensing rules

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef has announced a comprehensive direction to reform Kuwait’s traffic system, stressing that real development begins with restructuring the mechanisms for granting driver’s licenses, correcting long-standing flaws in driver qualification, and embracing technology and private-sector partnerships to enhance road safety.

Speaking Tuesday at the National Forum for Transport and Smart Services, Sheikh Fahd said improving traffic conditions is not only about enforcement, but about cultivating respect for the law, reports Al-Qabas daily.

The forum brought together government entities, private-sector representatives, and participants from the Abu Dhabi Transport Center as a strategic platform to modernize Kuwait’s transport system.

“You have noticed, as road users, the difference between the past and today in terms of law enforcement,” he said. “There is a vast difference between enforcing the law and respecting the law.”

He affirmed that the Ministry of Interior is fully prepared to support stakeholders, adding that efforts are underway to implement a traffic system similar to those adopted internationally, particularly in the area of driver licensing. “We are working toward a rigorous international system for issuing driver’s licenses,” he said.

Learning from International Experience

Addressing the Directorate General of Traffic and referring to the participation of Abu Dhabi officials, Sheikh Fahd called for adopting structured training models used abroad. He noted that in such systems, applicants must complete specified training hours before being allowed to sit for driving tests.

“Instead of someone merely learning how to park or obtaining a license through irregular means, they must complete graded training hours,” he said. “Initially this could be 20 hours. If the applicant fails, they return to training and testing until they master all aspects of driving, from traffic signs to safe and legal driving.”

He stressed that he does not oppose anyone obtaining a license, but emphasized that it must come through proper qualification and testing.

Taxi Drivers and Company Responsibility

Sheikh Fahd highlighted challenges involving taxi drivers unfamiliar with Kuwait’s roads, who rely heavily on navigation apps. “Sometimes the route changes, they follow it blindly, and this leads to accidents,” he said, noting that such incidents cause financial losses to private companies.

He pointed out that foreign drivers who commit violations are deported, forcing companies to repeat lengthy recruitment and licensing procedures. He urged transport companies to train drivers in driving schools abroad and familiarize them with Kuwaiti traffic laws before their arrival.

“A driver who does not know the laws and does not speak Arabic or English — how will he communicate with passengers?” he asked.

Encouraging Kuwaiti Employment

Addressing representatives of ride-hailing companies such as Uber and Careem, Sheikh Fahd linked investment opportunities with national employment. “Yes, we encourage investment, but there is also a need to employ Kuwaitis,” he said, noting that citizens should be encouraged to enter the transport sector.

He indicated that transportation companies may in the future be required to meet specific quotas for employing Kuwaiti nationals, as part of government support for national workforce participation.

Technology at the Core of Reform

Sheikh Fahd placed strong emphasis on digital transformation, describing technology as a key indicator of progress in developed countries. He said the General Directorate of Traffic has opened its doors to technological initiatives.

“Personally, I love technology,” he said. “Any company specializing in transportation technology and smart services that has a new product for Kuwait — I am ready.”

He also instructed that technology-focused company representatives be granted direct access for discussions, urging them to engage with the General Traffic Department. “Their doors and hearts are open. We need technology, development, and the private sector,” he concluded.