MC approves new investment housing regulations to modernize urban development
KUWAIT, July 14, 2025 – In its main session held Monday and chaired by Abdullah Al-Mahri, the Municipal Council approved key updates to the investment housing requirements under Kuwait’s new building regulations, signaling a significant step toward modernizing the nation’s urban planning framework.
The Council stated that the old regulations, including building codes, are undergoing a comprehensive review to align with Kuwait’s evolving development goals. Among the newly approved updates is Table No. (2), which outlines requirements and specifications for investment housing projects both within and outside Kuwait City. These updates aim to enhance the economic utility and structural efficiency of residential investment buildings, reports Al-Rai daily.
One of the major revisions includes a six-fold increase in compensation for commercial establishments, and a 50 percent increase in the allowable building percentage for properties designated for residential care. The updated regulations also permit the use of basements and service floors to accommodate building needs and improve accessibility for people with disabilities.
Additionally, the merging of various commercial activities within a single building has been prohibited, ensuring better zoning compliance and urban order. The Council approved the inclusion of associations, libraries, and playgrounds under permitted investment activities, and introduced a new “studio” classification within investment apartment structures.
In a further update, the number of commercial activities allowed on the first and second floors of investment residential buildings has been increased from 16 to 22, expanding the scope for mixed-use development.
The Council also approved the Public Authority for Youth’s request to designate a location for the Kuwait Technical Entrepreneurship Complex project in the Mubarak Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber area. This includes modifications to several project components to better align with youth development goals.
Additional decisions included approval of a proposal to regulate parking for investment housing, allocation of an emergency lane along major roads to implement a dedicated emergency corridor and acceptance of a donation from Kuwait International Bank to beautify and enhance the Abdul Razzaq Gate.
