Kuwait announced today, Wednesday, that it has entered the fifth phase of the gradual return to normal life following preventive measures against the COVID-19 pandemic, as decided by the Council of Ministers. This includes full operation of Kuwait International Airport starting from October 24. The decisions include resuming the issuance of all types of entry visas for those who have received the approved COVID-19 vaccines in Kuwait, as well as allowing closer seating in mosques with the requirement of wearing masks, vaccination, and bringing a prayer rug starting from the upcoming Friday prayers.
The Kuwaiti Council of Ministers also decided to allow not wearing masks in open areas while requiring them in all enclosed spaces, coupled with maintaining social distancing in places where wearing masks is not feasible, such as restaurants and cafes, starting from next Sunday. Additionally, conferences, wedding ceremonies, and social events will be permitted, restricted to attendees who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 while adhering to mask-wearing.
Health Minister Sheikh Basel Al-Sabah stated at a press conference that individuals who have received non-approved vaccines in Kuwait may enter the country after receiving a third dose of one of the approved vaccines. Kuwait has approved the "Pfizer-BioNTech," "AstraZeneca," and "Johnson & Johnson" vaccines. He noted that entry into Kuwait through all ports still requires presenting a PCR certificate proving the absence of COVID-19 infection and registering on the Kuwait Traveler platform and the Shlonak application.
Earlier this month, the General Directorate of Civil Aviation in Kuwait issued a decision to start implementing the Cabinet's decision allowing a one-time entry into Kuwait for individuals under 18 years old who are eligible for vaccination, holding valid residency, currently outside the country, and unable to obtain the vaccine. Updates on these regulations are anticipated with the entry into the fifth phase, but they have not yet been announced.
