Kuwait tightens street advertising rules to boost road safety and urban aesthetics
- Reforms supported by stronger penalties and technical standards
- Electronic advertising media will be subject to an annual fee of KD100 per square meter
- Unauthorized commercial advertisements may incur fines of up to KD 5,000
- Electronic billboards will be prohibited in residential areas and on bridges
Kuwait is moving toward a major overhaul of its outdoor advertising sector through new regulations developed jointly by the Municipality and the Municipal Council. The reforms aim to improve the visual appearance of public spaces, enhance road safety, and create a more organized advertising environment while increasing municipal revenues.
Street advertising has long played an important role in Kuwait’s commercial landscape, reflecting the country’s economic activity. However, the uncontrolled spread of billboards and advertising structures has contributed to visual pollution, traffic distractions, and growing public complaints.
To address these concerns, the Municipality and the Municipal Council have spent recent years reviewing legislation and introducing regulatory reforms designed to balance commercial interests with public safety and urban development objectives.
A key component of the reforms is the introduction of new advertising contracts covering major highways and roads. These contracts will be governed by updated regulations that establish clear standards for advertising locations, technical requirements, and operational procedures.
Municipal officials expect seven major highway advertising tenders to be finalized this summer. The tenders will be issued under Regulation No. 599 of 2023, with contracts being offered separately to ensure a smooth transition and effective implementation.
One of the most significant changes is the requirement that electronic advertising boards on highways be separated by approximately 400 meters. The measure is intended to reduce visual congestion and improve the overall appearance and safety of major road networks.
The new framework also promotes smart investment contracts that require companies to adopt digital systems for licensing and permit renewals. Successful bidders will be obligated to implement advertising technologies that meet Ministry of Interior standards regarding lighting, display quality, and design consistency.
To preserve Kuwait’s urban and tourism appeal, advertising sites will be concentrated in designated areas around roundabouts and major roads, while reducing billboard density in sensitive locations such as Arabian Gulf Street. Certain municipal sites will also be reserved exclusively for public awareness and government campaigns, reports Al-Jarida daily.
The regulations introduce stricter content controls and enforcement measures. Advertisements promoting certain medical procedures, violence, or bullying will be prohibited, while digital advertisements facing residential homes will be banned. Electronic advertising media will be subject to an annual fee of KD100 per square meter, and authorities will have the power to remove violations and revoke licenses.
The reforms are supported by stronger penalties and technical standards. Unauthorized commercial advertisements may incur fines of up to KD5,000, while electronic billboards will be prohibited in residential areas and on bridges.
With stricter oversight, enhanced safety measures, and modernized regulations, the Municipality hopes to create cleaner streets, safer roads, and a more attractive urban environment that aligns with Kuwait’s long-term development vision.
