SHAMSHER KHAN
The Council of Ministers has approved a draft decree-law establishing a comprehensive legal framework to regulate drones, light sport aircraft, air sports and related activities, while reaffirming its commitment to financial reforms aimed at strengthening Kuwait’s credit standing in global ratings. The decisions were taken during the Cabinet’s meeting on Tuesday, chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.
The draft decree-law sets clear rules for the registration, licensing, authorization and operation of drones and other aircraft covered by the legislation. It also outlines obligations for operators, prohibited activities and penalties for violations. Officials noted that unregulated use of drones and similar aircraft could endanger air navigation, national security, public order, individual privacy, and the safety of people and property. Misuse could further threaten airports, vital installations and areas designated as prohibited or restricted.
Under the proposed law, the General Directorate of Civil Aviation will oversee implementation in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, security and military authorities, and other relevant government agencies. The legislation comprises 44 articles divided into six chapters covering general provisions; the role of the General Directorate of Civil Aviation; registration, licenses and permits; obligations, prohibitions and measures; penalties; and final provisions. The Cabinet referred the draft decree-law to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
In parallel, the Cabinet reviewed an assessment by Finance Minister Dr. Yaqoub Al-Rifai of Fitch Ratings’ latest report on Kuwait’s sovereign credit rating. The minister highlighted Fitch’s view that Kuwait’s rating reflects the country’s exceptionally strong fiscal and external positions. However, the agency expects regional geopolitical instability to weigh on economic growth, particularly amid changes in oil production levels. Fitch anticipates continued, albeit slower, growth in the non-oil economy, supported by government spending on infrastructure projects. Inflation is projected to rise slightly in 2026 before declining in 2027.
Regarding external assets, Fitch noted that Kuwait continues to benefit from an exceptionally strong external financial position. The agency expects net sovereign foreign assets as a share of GDP to increase in 2026, reaching a level more than ten times the average for AA-rated countries. Fitch assessed that the potential impact of ongoing regional geopolitical instability should remain manageable due to Kuwait’s substantial financial buffers. The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to continuing financial reforms designed to improve Kuwait’s standing in relevant global credit indicators.
The Cabinet also strongly condemned attacks by the Houthi militia against Saudi Arabia’s Najran region, which targeted civilian facilities and injured several civilians.
Separately, the Cabinet was briefed on preparations for International Youth Day, observed annually on 12 August following its adoption by the UN General Assembly in 1999. Minister of State for Youth and Sports Affairs Dr. Tariq Al-Jalahma emphasized Kuwait’s focus on youth issues and efforts to strengthen young people’s capabilities while supporting their projects and initiatives. He described young people as an important national resource who play a key role in development across social, economic, sporting, cultural, scientific and artistic fields.
The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Kuwait’s youth through quality opportunities, training programs and greater empowerment of national talent. It stressed the importance of creating employment opportunities, developing leadership and creative skills, and involving young people in decision-making and sustainable development. The Cabinet also reviewed several other items on its agenda, including reports and minutes of ministerial committees, approving some matters and referring others to the relevant committees for further study and recommendations.
