Shuwaikh and Al-Rai Zone set for redevelopment under new building framework

The Municipal Council member Engineer Munira Al-Amir announced that the Council’s Technical Committee has approved the final draft of the proposed amendments to Schedule 16, which outlines updated requirements and specifications for service sector buildings in the Shuwaikh and Al-Rai service, craft, and commercial area — formerly the Free Trade Zone.

In a press statement following the committee’s meeting, Al-Amir explained that the revision is part of ongoing efforts to modernize building regulations and develop key economic zones in alignment with Kuwait’s general structural plan and national development vision, reports Al-Rai daily.

Al-Amir stated that the revised regulations aim to activate land use in the zone in a way that serves the national economy, offering well-planned commercial and service activities within modern regulatory frameworks. The new specifications define clear rules on building ratios, heights, and permissible uses for different floors.

The updated framework allows for a total building ratio of up to 130% of the plot area, distributed over the ground, mezzanine, and first floors; a basement can also be constructed, with a building ratio of 100%, permitted for commercial, parking, or storage use under specific regulations.

The rules are tailored to accommodate different specializations:

Ground floor: offices, shops, or showrooms (minimum area of 100 sqm).

• Mezzanine: offices connected to ground floor operations under specific engineering conditions (no overhangs beyond the building’s horizontal footprint).
• The permitted activities include administrative offices, retail shops, showrooms, bank branches, health clubs, and hotels (minimum area of 10,000 sqm). Restaurants and cafés can occupy up to 10% of the plot. Warehouses were also added due to their economic significance, enhancing the area’s status as a multi-service zone.

Al-Amir emphasized strict design controls:

• Total building height capped at 12 meters, with each floor not exceeding 6 meters in height.
• Specific spacing between floors and design standards for attics and canopies, ensuring both functional and aesthetic quality.

The updated regulations also introduce practical parking solutions:

• One parking space per 60 sqm of office space.
• One parking space per 50 sqm of retail/showroom space.
• Surface and covered parking permitted under defined conditions.

Addressing existing structures licensed under the previous free zone system, Al-Amir confirmed a flexible mechanism has been put in place. Current buildings may remain until demolished. A one-year grace period will be granted for unlicensed buildings to regularize their status, in coordination with relevant authorities.

The regulations also incorporate the requirements of key government ministries—including the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Information, and the Ministry of Electricity and Water—and ensure compliance with Kuwait’s Accessibility Code, promoting inclusive design for persons with disabilities.

Al-Amir concluded that the updated regulations represent a significant leap forward in organizing one of Kuwait’s most vital service and craft areas.

She emphasized that these changes pave the way for a more integrated, investment-friendly environment that balances technical standards with developmental needs.