PAM advances Kuwaitization in government contracts, expands to Health and Hotel Sectors

The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) continues to intensify its efforts under the “Kuwaitization of Government Contracts” initiative, as confirmed by Mohammed Al-Muzaini, Acting Director of Public Relations and Media.

In coordination with major ministries like Electricity and Water, Public Works, and Health, PAM has already completed the first phase with the Ministry of Health. Awareness programs and interviews have commenced with Public Works, while application screening is ongoing. This initiative is part of a broader national strategy aimed at creating a balanced labor market and integrating more Kuwaiti nationals into various sectors.

Al-Muzaini highlighted the unprecedented support given to Kuwaiti workers in the Gulf region, including financial incentives, qualification programs, and job fairs. He stressed that Kuwaitization programs encourage young Kuwaitis to seek private sector employment by providing an attractive alternative to government jobs.

These programs are now expanding into the health and hotel sectors, in addition to ongoing cooperation with the banking and telecom industries. Several private companies have voluntarily exceeded their Kuwaitization quotas, hiring up to 40% nationals—evidence of the success of PAM’s training and employment strategies.

On the issue of expatriate workers, Al-Muzaini addressed the recent requirement — effective July 1 — for private sector foreign employees to obtain an exit permit from their employer before leaving Kuwait.

The move, directed by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, aims to resolve legal and financial obligations prior to departure.

PAM coordinated with the Ministry of Interior and Government Communication Center to roll out extensive awareness campaigns, videos, and electronic platforms to ease the process. Over 100,000 permits have already been issued, and no misuse or complaints have been recorded so far.

Al-Muzaini also reiterated Kuwait’s commitment to labor protection by enforcing the midday work ban in open areas during the hot summer months — from June 1 to August 31 between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The regulation, effective since 2015, reflects Kuwait’s adherence to international labor standards and its concern for worker welfare. Regarding the new exit permit rule, PAM has reassured workers that it is actively receiving complaints in case of unjust permit denial by employers, and prompt resolution mechanisms are in place across all governorates.