AGP Executive Report

Shingles Vaccine Access: Kuwait’s Ministry of Health expanded its optional shingles vaccination to everyone aged 50+ and adults 18+ with weakened immune systems, adding more vaccination sites across the country. Food Security & Halal Standards: Kuwait also pushed GCC plans for strategic food storage zones to boost readiness during supply shocks, while a new MoU between the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and PAFN aims to strengthen Kuwait’s halal food system through shared oversight and awareness. Rehab Crackdown: The Ministry of Health shut down two physiotherapy/rehabilitation centers and a clinic and referred them to the Medical Liability Authority over licensing, referral, and record-keeping violations. Emergency Care Push: Kuwait marked World Paramedics Day with a week-long public awareness campaign on first aid, including hands-only training at major malls. Diabetes Drug Deal: Daewoong Pharmaceutical signed a large agreement to launch its Envlo diabetes medicine in Kuwait and other MENA markets starting in 2027. Child Safety Online: Kuwait experts debated whether to follow the UAE’s under-15 social media ban, weighing risks like cyberbullying and addiction against benefits for learning and connection. Workplace Wellness: Gulf Bank’s “Break the Routine” initiative offered nutrition consultations, body composition checks, and healthy snacks to support employee wellbeing.

Hospital Oversight: Kuwait’s Ministry of Health has shut down multiple physiotherapy/rehabilitation centers and a clinic, referring facilities to the Medical Liability Authority after violations including unlicensed staffing, missing medical referrals, incomplete patient files, and expired nursing licenses. Emergency Care Push: The Health Ministry also launched a week-long World Paramedics Day awareness campaign at The Avenues Mall, with first-aid training and plans to continue at Al-Khiran Mall and 360 Mall, highlighting Kuwait’s ambulance network and first responder service. Diabetes Drug Deal: Daewoong Pharmaceutical signed a major export and supply agreement to bring its Envlo (Type 2 diabetes SGLT-2 inhibitor) to Kuwait and other MENA countries, with Saudi approval targeted this year and launches starting in 2027. Halal Food System: Kuwait’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition signed an MoU to strengthen the halal food ecosystem, focusing on quality control, food safety, and compliance with Sharia and technical standards. Child Safety Online: Kuwait is watching the UAE’s move to restrict social media for under-15s, as local experts debate whether bans or stronger protections and education are the better path. Local Health Incident: A family dispute in Abdullah Al-Mubarak is under criminal investigation after a brother allegedly assaulted the other, resulting in a perforated eardrum and other injuries.

Preventive Care Push: Kuwait’s Ministry of Health is running preventive healthcare awareness activities, including a week-long campaign for World Paramedics Day with hands-only first aid training and expanded community response through ambulance centers. Regulation & Patient Safety: The MoH ordered the closure of seven private healthcare facilities and referred a medical center to the Medical Liability Authority after inspections found serious violations, including people practicing without required licenses. Disability Inclusion: Kuwait’s “Partners to Employ Them” initiative graduated its 7th batch, with 100 trainees moving toward employment and a reported 97.6% job retention rate among graduates. Halal Food System: The Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition signed an MoU to strengthen Kuwait’s halal food ecosystem, focusing on food security, quality control, and compliance with technical and Sharia standards. Digital Health Debate: Kuwait is weighing whether to follow the UAE’s move to restrict social media for children under 15, as experts warn about psychological and behavioral risks while others call for safer, age-appropriate protections. Community Health Events: Health officials also highlighted hospital-led awareness days covering conditions like hypertension, rheumatic diseases, stroke prevention, and neurological disorders.

Preventive Care Push: Kuwait’s Health Ministry held a public awareness day at Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital, urging prevention over cure and featuring education on hypertension, rheumatic diseases, neurological disorders and stroke prevention. Private Sector Crackdown: The ministry ordered the closure of seven private healthcare facilities and referred a medical center to the Medical Liability Authority after joint inspections found unlicensed practice, including a sales representative treating patients and administering Botox/filler, plus other licensing and conduct breaches. Health & Safety Incident: A woman in Salwa was hospitalized after allegedly swallowing seven magnesium tablets during a marital dispute; her condition stabilized and authorities opened an investigation. Disability Employment Support: Kuwait expanded training, rehabilitation and job opportunities for persons with disabilities through the “Partners to Employ Them” initiative, with 100 trainees entering the employment phase and a 97.6% job retention rate reported among graduates. Travel Advisory (Health Angle): The U.S. issued Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warnings for Kuwait ahead of July 4, citing armed conflict, landmines and crime. Global Health Market Watch: A new report projects strong growth for human fibrinogen concentrate used in bleeding disorders, reaching about USD 2.78B by 2035.

Private Healthcare Crackdown: Kuwait’s Ministry of Health ordered the closure of seven private facilities and referred a Salmiya medical center to the Medical Liability Authority after joint inspections found serious licensing and professional-conduct violations, including unlicensed practice and improper procedures. Hospital Incident & Legal Follow-up: A Kuwaiti man was released on bail after questioning over allegations he insulted a doctor on duty at Farwaniya Hospital; the case is now with the Public Prosecution. Mental Health & Oral Care Research: A preventive oral health program study reported improvements in dental plaque scores for individuals with special health care needs, while broader health coverage highlighted obesity as a growing global crisis. Regional Health & Safety: Qatar advised maritime operators to suspend sailing after Iranian strikes in the region, underscoring ongoing risks for Gulf travel and healthcare access. Workplace Support: Burgan Bank launched a benefits package for employees whose spouses are frontline defenders, including reduced working hours and concierge support.

Private Healthcare Crackdown: Kuwait’s Ministry of Health shut seven private facilities and referred one medical center to the Medical Liability Authority after joint inspections found licensing, conduct, and technical violations, including unlicensed practice and improper procedures. Hospital Incident & Legal Follow-Up: A Kuwaiti citizen was released on bail after questioning over allegations he insulted a doctor on duty at Farwaniya Hospital; the case is now with the Public Prosecution. Public Health & Safety: A woman in Salwa was hospitalized after allegedly taking seven magnesium tablets during a marital dispute; police registered a case and launched an investigation. Workplace Support for Frontliners’ Families: Burgan Bank launched a benefits package for employees whose spouses are frontline defenders, including reduced working hours and a concierge support program. Regional Health-Impact Risk: Qatar urged maritime operators to suspend sailing after Iranian strikes in the region, raising safety concerns for water travel around Kuwait and Bahrain. Health Tech/Research Watch: New market research reports highlighted growth in hematologic malignancies testing and neonatal infant care equipment markets, reflecting continued investment in diagnostics and critical care. Diplomacy & Health Security Context: US-Iran talks over the Strait of Hormuz remain in focus after renewed exchanges, with potential knock-on effects for regional stability and access to healthcare supply chains.

Private Healthcare Crackdown: Kuwait’s Ministry of Health ordered the closure of seven private facilities and referred a Salmiya medical center to the Medical Liability Authority after joint inspections found serious licensing, professional conduct, and technical violations, including unlicensed practice and improper patient procedures. Hospital Incident in Farwaniya: A Kuwaiti citizen was released on bail after questioning over allegations he insulted a doctor on duty at Farwaniya Hospital; the case is now with the Public Prosecution. Emergency Care After Tablet Ingestion: In Salwa, a Gulf woman was taken to Mubarak Hospital after allegedly swallowing seven magnesium tablets during a marital dispute; her condition stabilized and an investigation is underway. Health Sector Oversight & Safety: The inspections involved multiple agencies, including drug and manpower authorities, as Kuwait tightens oversight of private healthcare. Frontline Families Support: Burgan Bank launched benefits for employees whose spouses are frontline defenders, including reduced working hours and concierge support. Kuwait Health & Workforce Context: Kuwait’s workforce topped 3.04 million in 2025, with Indian nationals the largest expatriate group—an ongoing backdrop for staffing and healthcare capacity planning.

Gulf Security & Health Impact: Iran launched fresh drone and missile attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait after US strikes, with Tehran warning of a “complete halt” to negotiations and tensions tied to reopening the Strait of Hormuz—an essential route for energy supplies that can quickly affect health through fuel costs and service disruptions. Local Health Community Support: Kuwait saw major blood-donation momentum, including a large “Red Salute” mega campaign at Jabriya Central Blood Bank where 200+ people donated, plus PAK Donors securing 3rd place among Kuwait Central Blood Bank voluntary donors. Access to Care: OICC Kuwait Youth Wing and Badr Medical Center ran a free medical camp in Farwaniya with check-ups and discounted tests to make healthcare more reachable. Research & Medicines: AB Science reported completion of Step 3 in Phase 1 for AB8939 + venetoclax in refractory/relapsed AML, reporting a 67% overall response rate, while Arcera Life Sciences and Daewoong expanded plans to bring enavogliflozin to Middle East markets for type 2 diabetes. Public Health Watch: WHO said Europe has recorded 1,300+ excess deaths linked to extreme heat since June 21, a reminder for Kuwait to keep heat-safety and hydration guidance front and center.

Water Security in Focus: Kuwait highlighted water-sector upgrades at Saudi Water Week and the Arab Water Forum, stressing desalination, water reuse, digital network management and efficiency to strengthen long-term water security. Blood Donation Drive: A “Red Salute” mega blood donation campaign in Jabriya drew 500+ participants and 200+ donors to honor Kuwaiti defense personnel, while PAK Donors earned 3rd place in Kuwait Central Blood Bank voluntary donation rankings. Community Health Camps: OICC Kuwait Youth Wing, with Badr Medical Center, ran a free medical camp in Farwaniya with check-ups and discounts on tests and treatment. Youth Career Guidance: ISEK held its “Meet the Professional” session for Grades 6–10 featuring a medical educator sharing pathways in medicine. Wellness Leadership: Waldorf Astoria Kuwait appointed senior leaders, including a new Director of Spa to expand personalized wellness programming. Regional Health Risk Context: Amid renewed US-Iran tensions, Kuwait and Bahrain were targeted in attacks, raising concerns for public safety and disruption of services.

Screen Health: Kuwait doctors warn that heavy screen time is driving more childhood vision problems, dry eyes, obesity, sleep issues and behavior changes, urging parents to use the 20-20-20 rule and watch for red flags like headaches, squinting and eye rubbing. Travel Health: Kuwait has issued new rules for passengers flying to India, requiring an upgraded Air Suvidha 2.0 health self-declaration form up to 24 hours before arrival as India tightens airport screening amid Ebola concerns. Local Safety: Kuwait authorities are investigating the death of a Bangladeshi expatriate in Sabah Al-Salem after forensic findings suggested possible foul play, including marks around the neck. Humanitarian & Care: Indian Air Force C-17s carried relief supplies and a field hospital contingent to earthquake-hit Venezuela via Abidjan, highlighting emergency medical support capacity. Regional Health Risk: A major heatwave is pushing temperatures toward or above 50C across parts of the Middle East, with Kuwait City among the hardest hit—raising the stakes for heat-related illness prevention. Pharma Update: Sanofi’s Tzield received U.S. accelerated approval to delay the decline of insulin production in stage 3 type 1 diabetes for ages 8–17.

Screen & Eye Health: Kuwait experts warn that excessive screen use is harming kids’ eyesight and sleep, urging parents to watch for red flags like eye rubbing and headaches and to use the 20-20-20 rule. Anti-Drug Push: Kuwait’s Interior Minister says authorities intercepted about 95% of drug shipments, highlighting tighter detection training and a new national awareness campaign, “Watan Yahmeek.” Hospital Education & Care: Abdullah Al-Salem University approved key curriculum and regulations for the MD program’s next phase, while Kuwait also moved to regulate hospital visits and “quiet hours.” Local Aid & Health Access: Kuwait’s Central Aid Platform has topped KD36 million in donations since launch, with medical requests routed through specialized associations to reduce duplication. Public Health at Borders: India introduced an upgraded Air Suvidha 2.0 health self-declaration form for international arrivals to strengthen Ebola-related airport surveillance. Clinical Breakthrough: Sanofi’s Tzield (teplizumab) gained U.S. accelerated approval to delay loss of insulin production in stage 3 type 1 diabetes for ages 8–17. Investigation: Kuwait police opened an inquiry into a Bangladeshi expatriate’s death in Sabah Al-Salem after marks suggested possible foul play.

Kuwait Health & Safety: Kuwait authorities shut down a health institute after inspectors found violations, including breaches of rules banning cash transactions for certain activities, and the facility was immediately closed as legal procedures began. Public Health & Addiction: Kuwait’s Interior Minister said authorities intercepted about 95% of drug shipments entering the country, highlighting tighter detection, specialized training, and addiction treatment support by the Ministry of Health. Healthcare Access & Training: Abdullah Al-Salem University approved the curriculum for the next MD program phase (years 5 and 6) and set evaluation/exam rules, alongside new academic partnerships. Local Welfare: Kuwait’s Central Aid Platform has topped KD36 million in donations since launch, with medical requests routed to specialized associations to reduce duplication. Clinical Care Focus: A Kuwait-based medical piece explains how laryngology has evolved toward more precise, office-based voice and swallowing care. Global Health Alert: India opened an Ebola-focused digital self-declaration portal for international passengers, as the outbreak response expands beyond the DRC. Pharma Update: Sanofi’s Tzield received U.S. accelerated approval to delay decline in insulin production for children with stage 3 type 1 diabetes.

Drug Control & Public Health: Kuwait’s Interior Minister said authorities intercepted about 95% of drug shipments, highlighting tighter detection, training, and a new national anti-drug awareness push, with addiction treated as a manageable health condition. Healthcare Regulation: Kuwait shut down a health institute after inspectors found violations including cash-payment breaches, with the facility sealed immediately. Medical Education Expansion: Abdullah Al-Salem University approved key steps for the MD program’s next phase, including curriculum, evaluation rules, and partnerships with the British Council and King’s College London. Local Aid & Wellness Access: Kuwait’s Central Aid Platform surpassed KD36 million in donations since launch, with medical and family sponsorship requests routed through the platform to reduce duplication. Safety & Investigation: Kuwait Police launched an investigation into the death of a Bangladeshi expatriate in Sabah Al-Salem after forensic findings suggested possible foul play, with an autopsy pending. Clinical Care Focus: A Kuwait ENT specialist discussed how laryngology has shifted toward more precise, office-based voice and swallowing care.

Drug Safety & Enforcement: Kuwait’s Interior Minister said authorities intercepted about 95% of drug shipments entering the country, citing tighter coordination, upgraded detection training, and recent seizures including narcotic-saturated A4 paper. Public Health Services: Kuwait shut down a health institute after inspectors found violations tied to cash-payment rules, with authorities taking legal steps and closing the facility immediately. Health Education Expansion: Abdullah Al-Salem University approved key milestones for the MD program’s next phase, including curriculum, evaluation/exam regulations, and new international academic partnership documents. Medical Workforce & Care Access: Kuwait’s MoH introduced “quiet hours” and regulated hospital visits, aiming to improve patient rest and care conditions. Addiction & Community Awareness: The “Watan Yahmeek” anti-drug campaign was launched alongside International Day efforts, stressing family and community roles in prevention and treatment. Food Security Focus: Kuwait’s development and sustainability minister discussed strengthening food security cooperation and called for an integrated national database to support environmental transparency and decision-making. Clinical Voice Care: A local medical feature highlighted how laryngology is moving from observation-based diagnosis to precision, office-based procedures for voice and swallowing problems.

Drug Control Update: Kuwait’s Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah says authorities intercepted about 95% of drug shipments entering the country, citing tight coordination across security agencies, customs, the private sector and civil society, and highlighting seizures like narcotic-saturated A4 paper as traffickers keep changing tactics. Health Regulation Enforcement: Kuwait shut down a health institute after Commerce and Interior inspectors found violations, including breaches of rules that restrict cash payments for certain activities. Medical Education: Abdullah Al-Salem University approved the curriculum for the next phase of its Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, including evaluation and examination regulations, and moved forward with academic partnerships via a draft MoU with the British Council and updates with King’s College London. Local Health & Safety: Police launched routine investigations after an elderly Kuwaiti man was found dead in the Sabah Al Salem area; preliminary findings point to natural causes while forensic checks continue. Diabetes Research Recognition: Dasman Diabetes Institute announced Dr Hamad Yassin received Springer Nature’s 2026 Editorial Excellence Award for work in nephrology, genomic and precision medicine. Wellness & Community: Kuwait marked International Day of Yoga with an Embassy of India event drawing over 2,200 participants, alongside efforts to correct misinformation circulating online.

Kuwait Health & Research Spotlight: Dasman Diabetes Institute researcher Dr Hamad Yassin won Springer Nature’s 2026 Editorial Excellence Award, recognizing work in nephrology, genomic medicine and precision medicine. Local Health System Update: Kuwait’s courts upheld “quiet hours” style hospital visiting rules, and a separate ruling saw a Family Court of Appeals revoke custody after repeated travel disrupted children’s schooling and care. Public Health & Wellness: A Kuwait Embassy-led International Day of Yoga event drew 2,200+ participants, while local commentators pushed back against misleading claims online about yoga being incompatible with Islam. Health Policy & Community: Kuwait joined GCC talks to strengthen consumer protection cooperation, alongside broader regional efforts to tackle drugs and transnational crime through the League of Arab States and UNODC in Cairo. Health-Adjacent Lifestyle: A Kuwait Union report says the country remains among the more affordable GCC markets for employing domestic workers, with wage costs and recruitment fees adjusted over recent years.