New rule caps cash payments for private healthcare at 10 dinars
- Mandatory Digital Payments: Payments above 10 dinars must be made through banking channels or electronic payment systems approved by the Central Bank of Kuwait.
- Sector-Wide Implementation: The regulation applies to all Ministry of Health-licensed private healthcare providers, including hospitals, medical centres, clinics and home healthcare facilities.
- Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance: Violations may result in closure of the establishment, referral to investigation authorities and other legal penalties under Decree Law No. 10 of 1979.
Kuwait is taking another step toward strengthening financial transparency and expanding digital payment practices, with a new regulation requiring private healthcare providers to move away from large cash transactions.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued Ministerial Resolution No. (110) of 2026, prohibiting companies operating licensed private healthcare facilities from accepting cash payments exceeding 10 dinars for medical services.
Under the new framework, hospitals, medical centers, clinics, home healthcare providers and other privately operated health establishments must ensure that any payment above the 10-dinar limit is completed through approved banking channels or electronic payment systems authorized by the Central Bank of Kuwait.
The decision marks a significant shift in the way private healthcare transactions are handled, aiming to enhance payment security, improve financial monitoring and encourage wider adoption of electronic payment solutions within one of the country’s most essential service sectors.
The Ministry emphasized that the move applies to all companies owning private health facilities licensed by the Ministry of Health, making digital payment compliance a mandatory requirement rather than an optional practice.
Officials noted that the measure forms part of broader efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight, promote transparency and align commercial activities with modern financial systems.
Private healthcare establishments that violate the new rules will face legal consequences, including penalties stipulated under Decree Law No. (10) of 1979. Possible measures include closure of the facility and referral of cases to relevant investigation authorities for further legal action.
The resolution also cancels any previous regulations that conflict with its provisions and came into effect immediately upon issuance on July 13, 2026.
The latest decision reflects Kuwait’s accelerating transition toward a more digitally driven economy, where electronic payments, financial accountability and stronger regulatory frameworks are becoming key pillars across commercial and service sectors.
