Kuwait: The new Traffic Law, issued by Decree Law No. 5 of 2025, officially came into force today, marking a major step in Kuwait’s efforts to enhance traffic safety and reduce accidents. This law introduces a range of updated provisions aimed at effectively regulating the traffic system and promoting responsible driving behavior across the country.
The law grants police officers the authority to arrest individuals for major violations such as running red lights, reckless or negligent driving, unauthorized passenger transport, and driving without a valid license or permit. It also targets those exceeding speed limits by over 50 km/h or driving vehicles in restricted areas.
Significantly, the law increases penalties across various traffic violations. For instance, the fine for running a red light rises from 50 to 150 Kuwaiti dinars, and using parking spaces designated for people with special needs now carries a fine of 150 dinars instead of 10. Similarly, using a mobile phone while driving will now cost 75 dinars, and failing to wear a seatbelt will be penalized with 30 dinars. Reckless driving now attracts a fine of 150 dinars.
The law introduces three categories of non-reconcilable violations that will be referred to court:
Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or substances affecting natural faculties — punishable with a fine of 1,000 to 3,000 dinars and 1–2 years of imprisonment.
Causing property damage while intoxicated — punishable by a fine of 2,000 to 3,000 dinars and 1–3 years of imprisonment.
Causing injury or death while intoxicated — punishable by a fine of 2,000 to 5,000 dinars and 2–5 years of imprisonment.
An explanatory memorandum noted that the last update to traffic regulations was in 2001, and drastic changes in traffic conditions, vehicle numbers, and road expansion required an urgent revision. Past efforts, such as Decree Law No. 55 of 1999, showed a significant reduction in violations when stricter penalties were enforced.
To support the new law, the Ministry of Interior launched a wide-reaching awareness campaign across traditional and digital platforms, educating the public on key amendments and promoting road safety in multiple languages.
This legislation marks a pivotal change in traffic enforcement in Kuwait, aiming to create a safer and more disciplined driving culture for all road users.
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