Kuwait partially lifts maritime ban, Coast Guard ensures safe return to sea
Fishermen and Families return as Kuwait reopens sea under tight security measures
After a 55-day suspension, Kuwait’s maritime activity resumed on Friday, as authorities partially lifted the ban on sea access, allowing fishermen and picnickers to return under regulated conditions.
The reopening permits access to the sea for 12 hours daily, from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, following a decision by the Ministry of Interior to ease restrictions that were imposed earlier due to regional security developments.
The move comes after heightened tensions linked to Iranian aggression prompted a halt in maritime activity, with authorities now seeking to restore normalcy while maintaining strict security precautions.
Field observations showed large numbers of citizens and residents gathering from early morning, eager to resume sea outings for fishing and leisure, reflecting the strong cultural connection with Kuwait’s maritime environment.
Colonel Jassim Al-Khalfan, Director of the Training and Development Center at the General Directorate of Coast Guard, confirmed that the decision was implemented following directives from First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, and under the supervision of Coast Guard leadership.
He explained that the reopening was based on a comprehensive security assessment aimed at balancing the protection of territorial waters with allowing controlled public access.
Authorities have designated specific areas for navigation, with green zones indicating permitted areas and red zones strictly prohibited, particularly around oil facilities and vital infrastructure to ensure safety.
Al-Khalfan stressed that strict operational controls have been introduced, including fixed entry and exit times, to protect lives and property while maintaining full surveillance over maritime activity.
He also urged citizens and residents to enjoy the sea responsibly, warning against photographing sensitive sites or sharing such content on social media, and encouraging the reporting of any suspicious activity through the emergency number 112.
Only Kubbar and Umm Al-Maradim islands have been approved for landing, while access to other areas remains restricted, with strict adherence required to designated maritime boundaries.
The Coast Guard has further enhanced its capabilities with the introduction of unmanned marine vessels equipped with advanced monitoring systems and thermal cameras, enabling round-the-clock surveillance and direct communication with the operations room.
In addition, Al-Khalfan highlighted the growing role of women in the Coast Guard, noting the presence of trained female officers and ongoing international training, marking a significant step in strengthening operational capacity.
He concluded that ongoing upgrades, including advanced radar systems and maritime monitoring technologies, are part of a broader strategy to secure Kuwait’s territorial waters, combat smuggling and violations, and ensure safety as maritime activity gradually returns to normal.
