Kuwait approves sweeping amendments to residential construction code to boost investment and urban development

The head of the Technical Committee of the Municipal Council, Munira Al-Amir, has announced the approval of major amendments to the construction requirements for residential complexes both within and outside Kuwait City.

These changes, described as some of the most significant regulatory updates in recent years, were the result of extensive discussions within the Technical Committee and among relevant authorities. The primary aim is to streamline construction procedures, encourage real estate investment, and enhance urban planning and design outcomes across the country, reports Al-Rai daily.

Al-Amir explained that the revisions were guided by the principles of simplifying language, unifying standards, and ensuring a balanced approach between investor interests and societal well-being. Many outdated or repetitive clauses were removed, while new provisions were added to reflect contemporary construction practices and urban development needs.

A key change is the unification of the definition for a “residential complex,” which now refers to a group of investment buildings—apartments, villas, duplexes, or studios—constructed on a minimum area of 2,000 square meters, regardless of whether the complex is located inside or outside Kuwait City.

In terms of design flexibility, the updated regulations introduce radical changes to building ratios. Developers are now allowed to construct up to 400 percent of the plot area within Kuwait City and up to 250 percent outside, with additional allowances of 30 to 80 percent depending on the total plot size.

Notably, the limit on the floor area for each level has been eliminated, allowing developers more freedom in distributing building heights and interior layouts. Setback requirements have also been standardized, with a minimum of 3 meters on all sides, and shared basements or adjoining structures permitted under clear municipal conditions.

The committee also preserved the investment dimension of residential complexes by maintaining the 5 percent allocation for commercial services, subject to strict conditions. Shops may now be built along internal or main roads, either within the main structure or as standalone buildings, as long as they do not obstruct key access points and stay within the allowed limits.

Each shop must be at least 20 square meters, and developers may use the first basement—or part of it—for recreational purposes such as swimming pools or gyms, while still prioritizing its use for parking.

A new clause for mixed-use residential complexes has also been introduced within Kuwait City. This allows the integration of residential and commercial functions on plots of 2,000 square meters or more, provided that commercial activities do not exceed 30 percent of the total 400 percent building ratio.

Commercial units are to be located on the ground and first floors (shops) and second and third floors (offices), while mezzanine floors are prohibited. Importantly, developers must separate commercial and residential access points and provide distinct parking areas for each function.

The amendments also cover investment plots outside the city, allowing combinations of residential, commercial, and hotel uses within a single plot, provided that residential units occupy at least 3,000 square meters. Only one type of commercial use is allowed per building unless specific conditions are met.

The regulations emphasize the need for sufficient parking on-site. Finally, in a socially responsive move, the amended code mandates disability-accessible design, the inclusion of gender-friendly restrooms, and offers incentives—such as an additional 30 percent building allowance—to developers who collaborate with the Public Authority for Housing Welfare to provide community service units.