Kuwait approves 44-article drone law, backs financial reforms, regional security measures
The Council of Ministers has approved a draft decree-law establishing a comprehensive legal framework to regulate the use of drones, light sport aircraft, air sports and related activities, while reaffirming its commitment to financial reforms aimed at improving the country’s credit standing in global ratings.
The decisions were taken during the Cabinet’s meeting on Tuesday, chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.
The Cabinet approved a draft decree-law designed to establish clear rules governing the registration, licensing, authorization and operation of drones and other aircraft covered by the legislation.
The proposed law also sets out obligations, prohibited activities and penalties for violations. The Cabinet said unregulated use of drones and similar aircraft could pose risks to air navigation, national security, public order, individual privacy, and the safety of people and property. Misuse could also threaten airports, vital installations and areas designated as prohibited or restricted.
Under the draft law, the General Directorate of Civil Aviation will oversee implementation in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, security and military authorities, as well as other relevant government agencies.
The proposed legislation contains 44 articles divided into six chapters covering general provisions; the General Directorate of Civil Aviation; registration, licenses and permits; obligations, prohibitions and measures; penalties; and final provisions. The Cabinet referred the draft decree-law to H.H. the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
The Cabinet also reviewed an assessment by Finance Minister Dr. Yaqoub Al-Rifai of Fitch Ratings’ latest report on Kuwait’s sovereign credit rating.
The Finance Minister highlighted Fitch’s assessment that Kuwait’s credit rating reflects the country’s exceptionally strong fiscal and external positions.
However, Fitch expects regional geopolitical instability to weigh on Kuwait’s economic growth, particularly amid changes in oil production levels.
The agency expects Kuwait’s non-oil economy to continue growing, although at a slow pace, supported by government spending on infrastructure development projects. Fitch also expects inflation to rise slightly during 2026 before declining in 2027.
Regarding Kuwait’s external assets, Fitch said the country continues to benefit from an exceptionally strong external financial position.
The agency expects Kuwait’s net sovereign foreign assets as a share of GDP to increase in 2026, reaching a level more than 10 times the average for countries rated AA.
Fitch also assessed that the potential impact of continued regional geopolitical instability should remain manageable because of Kuwait’s substantial financial buffers.
The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to continuing financial reforms designed to improve Kuwait’s credit rating in relevant global indicators.
The Cabinet strongly condemned attacks carried out by the Houthi militia against Saudi Arabia’s Najran region, which targeted civilian facilities and injured several civilians.
The Cabinet was also briefed on preparations for International Youth Day, observed annually on August 12 following its adoption by the UN General Assembly in 1999.
Minister of State for Youth and Sports Affairs Dr. Tariq Al-Jalahma highlighted Kuwait’s focus on youth issues and efforts to strengthen young people’s capabilities and support their projects and initiatives.
He said young people represent an important national resource and play a key role in development across social, economic, sporting, cultural, scientific and artistic fields.
The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Kuwait’s youth through quality opportunities, training programs and greater empowerment of national talent.
It also stressed the importance of creating employment opportunities, developing leadership and creative skills, and involving young people in decision-making and sustainable development.
The Cabinet reviewed several other items on its agenda, including reports and minutes of ministerial committees, approving some matters and referring others to the relevant committees for further study and recommendations.
