Kuwait Signals End to Expatriate Family Visa Ban. In a recent development, Kuwait has indicated the impending lift of the ban on family visas for expatriates. The decision to revoke the ban awaits the ratification of the bill amending the Foreigners Residency Law. This announcement came during a meeting between the Chairman of the Human Resources Development Committee in the National Assembly, MP Abdulwahab Al-Essa, and Minister of Interior Sheikh Talal Khalid Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.

Concerns Raised by MP Al-Essa on Visa Ban Impact

MP Al-Essa highlighted the adverse effects of the family visa ban, emphasizing the transformation of Kuwait into a hub for single expatriates. He pointed out the increased cost of hiring laborers, especially in the construction sector, and the departure of skilled expatriate workers seeking opportunities elsewhere due to the separation from their families.

Parliament Response and Future Steps

In response to the concerns raised, MP Al-Essa has submitted a request to the National Assembly to assess the ban’s impact on the private sector, small enterprises, and the overall market. The decision’s repercussions on competent expatriates leaving Kuwait immediately for job opportunities in neighboring Gulf countries or elsewhere were underscored.

Committee Progress on Foreigners Residency Law Amendment

MP Muhammad Al-Mahan, Chairman of the Interior and Defense Affairs Committee, assured that the committee is nearing completion of its report on the bill, paving the way for its inclusion in the agenda of the next parliamentary session.

Assembly Approves Establishment of Kuwaiti Shareholding Company for Advanced Petroleum Industries

In a separate development, the Assembly approved the establishment of a Kuwaiti shareholding company for advanced petroleum industries in its first reading. This crucial move, supported by 49 votes in favor, signals a step towards enhancing oil revenues and addressing key issues within the oil sector.

Key Points from Oil and Energy Affairs Committee Report

The Oil and Energy Affairs Committee presented a comprehensive report outlining obstacles in the oil sector’s development. Notable challenges included the lack of a clear vision, frequent changes in oil ministers leading to instability, and inadequate utilization of national human resources. Financial problems, exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis and global shifts towards alternative energy sources, were also highlighted.

MP Support and Concerns on Oil Sector Proposal

During discussions, MPs expressed support for the proposal, anticipating its positive impact on the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and the creation of job opportunities for citizens. However, concerns were raised about the need for a robust enforcement mechanism and the absence of technical details in the bill.

Additional Parliamentary Agendas

In further parliamentary proceedings, 41 MPs submitted a proposal to include a bill amending relevant laws, allowing public sector employees to pursue higher studies while working. Additionally, queries were raised on various issues, including terminated expatriate consultants, scholarship slots for medical studies, and the performance assessment of public sector employees.

The Parliament also addressed concerns about delayed hospital openings, shortages of medicines in public pharmacies, and issues related to contracting companies. MPs sought clarification on expenses related to overseas scholarships, revenues of the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), and complaints against the Public Authority for Disabled Affairs (PADA).

The diverse range of issues discussed reflects the ongoing efforts of the Kuwaiti Parliament to address critical matters affecting the nation’s development and well-being.