Tripartite deal targets safer buildings and streamlined procedures
New pact to link fire safety and mandatory insurance; Municipality, KFF and insurers join forces to boost public safety compliance
The Kuwait Municipality, General Fire Force and Insurance Regulatory Unit have signed a tripartite memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening coordination and enhancing cooperation across areas of shared responsibility.
In a statement, Kuwait Municipality said the agreement was signed by Director General Manal Al-Asfour, Head of the General Fire Force Major General Talal Al-Roumi, and Head of the Insurance Regulatory Unit Mohammed Al-Otaibi.
The memorandum is designed to improve institutional alignment and reduce procedural burdens on the public, while introducing a more integrated framework for safety, compliance and insurance requirements, reports Al-Rai daily.
Key provisions include studying the introduction of mandatory insurance policies linked to public safety and fire protection for investment and commercial properties.
The agreement also explores integrating insurance procedures into the requirements for issuing and renewing building, demolition and fire permits.
In addition, the three entities will work to strengthen coordination in regulating, qualifying and accrediting private insurance companies authorized to issue such policies, ensuring compliance with established standards.
A joint committee, comprising representatives at the level of department director or higher, will be established to oversee implementation, monitor progress and develop the necessary regulatory mechanisms.
Kuwait Municipality said the initiative aligns with its mandate to develop urban policy in line with the country’s cultural identity, noting that the partnership will enhance oversight efficiency and support the effective execution of regulatory functions.
For its part, the General Fire Force said the agreement reinforces its efforts to strengthen community safety and protect lives and property by enhancing the enforcement of safety standards across buildings and activities.
Meanwhile, the Insurance Regulatory Unit highlighted its focus on safeguarding policyholders and advancing the insurance sector in line with international best practices, including identifying risks that require coverage to ensure transparency and fairness within the market.
