Kuwait tightens weapons law, enacts new penalties

The Kuwaiti Cabinet approved major amendments to the 1991 weapons and ammunition law, introducing stricter penalties for carrying bladed or air weapons in public spaces without valid justification. The decision comes amid rising concerns over public safety and aims to address legal loopholes that previously left certain threatening behaviors unpunished.

Under the new provisions, individuals found carrying bladed weapons or air guns with a caliber of 6 mm or more in areas such as schools, mosques or markets without legitimate reasons will face imprisonment from six months to one year and/or fines ranging from KD 500 to KD 1,000. Harsher penalties — including prison sentences of one to two years and fines of up to KD 2,000 — will apply to those who use such weapons to intimidate or threaten the public.

Justice Minister Counselor Nasser Al-Sumait said the amendment also prohibits the unlicensed sale, import or promotion of these weapons. He emphasized that the law grants the Minister of Interior the authority to define the scope of prohibited weapons and designate specific locations where the ban applies.

“These amendments fill a previous legal gap by criminalizing actions that disturb public safety", Al-Sumait stated.

In another key decision, the Cabinet approved a draft decree-law to rename the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) as the Public Authority for Civil Aviation. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Shereeda Al-Maousherji said the restructuring aligns with global aviation standards and addresses the need for comprehensive legislation to modernize Kuwait’s civil aviation framework.

The new legal structure is designed to enhance the sector’s ability to adapt to international advancements and fulfill regulatory requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a crucial step for the licensing of airports and air navigation services.

Both draft decree-laws will be forwarded to HH the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for final approval.