Kuwait lifts restrictions, allows fishing, pleasure boats to operate 24/7
- The Ministry of Interior has announced that fishing and pleasure boats will be permitted to operate around the clock from Sunday, while maintaining safety measures and navigation restrictions near sensitive maritime zones.
The Ministry of Interior has approved round-the-clock navigation for recreational fishing and pleasure boats beginning Sunday, easing previous sailing restrictions while maintaining strict maritime safety requirements.
The ministry said the decision was taken following an assessment of current conditions and aims to allow sea enthusiasts to carry out recreational and fishing activities at any time of the day without compromising maritime security or navigation safety.
Under the new regulations, boat owners and operators will be permitted to sail 24 hours a day, marking a significant relaxation of movement restrictions for the country’s maritime community.
The ministry, however, urged all seafarers to remain within approved navigation zones and avoid approaching oil facilities, vital infrastructure and restricted maritime areas.
These include waters between the northern and northeastern sections of Failaka Island and the southern area of Bubiyan Island, which remain off-limits due to security considerations.
Authorities also stressed the mandatory operation of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) throughout voyages. The system enables maritime authorities to monitor vessel movements and facilitates rapid response in emergencies or security incidents.
In addition, individuals wishing to enter the Kuwait Bay area for leisure activities or amateur fishing must obtain a QR code issued by the Environment Public Authority through the Sahel application.
The ministry said the Coast Guard will continue to monitor maritime activity around the clock and called on all sea users to comply with regulations and safety instructions to ensure the security of Kuwait’s territorial waters and the safety of all maritime users.
