KUWAIT CITY, Jun 10: The Ministry of Interior has announced the commencement of the implementation of Decree-Law No. 61 of 2026 on Maritime Establishments and Floating Units, marking a major step toward strengthening maritime safety, regulating sea activities, and reducing serious violations in Kuwait’s territorial waters.

According to the General Department of Public Relations and Security Media, the new law came into force on June 7, 2026, following its publication in the official Kuwait Al-Youm Gazette and the completion of all related regulatory and technical procedures.
Launched under the slogan “Sail Safely – Regularizing Your Maritime Status: A Responsibility and a Safety Check,” the law introduces a comprehensive framework governing maritime establishments and floating units, with a focus on enhancing safety standards, protecting lives and property, and promoting responsible maritime practices.
The Ministry said the legislation includes a series of new regulations and stricter penalties aimed at curbing serious and recurring violations. Among the offenses targeted are reckless and negligent operation of vessels, operating marine craft without the required licenses, and navigating under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or psychotropic substances. The law also establishes rules regarding safe operating speeds, prohibited maritime zones and beaches, and mandates the provision of essential safety and security equipment aboard vessels.
To facilitate compliance, authorities have granted owners of maritime establishments and floating units a grace period of up to six months to regularize their status and meet the new legal and technical requirements. The Ministry urged all owners and operators to take advantage of the grace period to avoid future legal consequences.
The law also requires adherence to vessel registration procedures and the acquisition of a captain’s license, measures that officials say are essential for safeguarding lives and ensuring orderly maritime navigation.
As part of the implementation process, the General Directorate of Coast Guard will begin enforcing the law through enhanced maritime patrols and monitoring operations across Kuwait’s waters. Authorities said these measures will ensure proper application of the law and compliance with approved legal procedures.
In addition, a permanent committee comprising maritime specialists will be established through a ministerial decree. The committee will be responsible for preparing, reviewing, and approving all conditions, controls, and regulations related to maritime establishments and floating units, ensuring consistent and effective implementation of the law.
The Ministry of Interior also announced plans to launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign to educate citizens and residents about the new legislation. The campaign will include awareness materials distributed through television, radio, print media, and the ministry’s official social media platforms, explaining the law’s provisions and technical requirements in detail.
Officials stressed that the law will be enforced without exception and that violations will be dealt with in accordance with the new amendments while maintaining the principles of legal justice, equality, and respect for the rights of all members of society.
The Ministry called on all sea users, including boat owners, operators, and recreational visitors, to comply with the new regulations and follow instructions issued by security personnel. It emphasized that the ultimate objective of the legislation is to enhance maritime awareness, improve safety behavior, and create a safer, more organized maritime environment throughout Kuwait’s territorial waters.