Latest news with #Kuwaitis
Kuwait Times
17 hours ago
- Business
- Kuwait Times
VisitBritain promotes UK diverse summer tourism beyond London - Faten Omar,
162,000 Kuwaitis visited UK in 2024, a 6 percent increase from 2023 KUWAIT: In collaboration with the British Embassy in Kuwait, Britain's national tourism agency, VisitBritain, organized a special afternoon tea event on Tuesday aimed at promoting the UK's diverse summer tourism experiences beyond London. During her opening remarks, British Ambassador to Kuwait Belinda Lewis emphasized the importance of strengthening the close ties between the United Kingdom and Kuwait, noting the growing interest among Kuwaiti travelers in exploring the UK's home nations. Ambassador Lewis added that Kuwaitis made 162,000 visits to the UK in 2024, a 6 percent increase from 2023 — with an average spend of £2,641 per person. The Gulf region ranks as the UK's tenth-largest inbound market, and Kuwait is projected to have the third-highest visitor spend among GCC countries in 2025. The ambassador highlighted the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme as a major driver of this growth, explaining that Kuwaitis made 148,854 applications between February 2024 and March 2025 - the second highest in the Gulf after Saudi Arabia. British Ambassador to Kuwait Belinda Lewis speaks at the event. Mirna Tamimi, Visit Britain's GCC Communications Manager speaks about the campaign. She also emphasized the Embassy's support for initiatives that showcase the UK's rich and diverse experiences, saying, 'We are delighted to welcome VisitBritain and media partners to the British Embassy today. As the long-standing bonds between the UK and Kuwait continue to strengthen, I am glad to see ever more Kuwaiti travelers choosing to visit the UK.' The event introduced VisitBritain's latest global campaign, Starring GREAT Britain, which taps into the rising trend of 'set-jetting' - visiting locations featured in popular films and TV series. The campaign invites travelers to discover iconic filming sites across England, Scotland and Wales. For her part, Mirna Tamimi, VisitBritain's GCC Communications Manager, showcased major events taking place this summer, including world-class sporting moments such as the British Grand Prix at Silverstone and the Wimbledon tennis tournament; Bath's festivities marking 250 years since the birth of renowned author Jane Austen; and the Liverpool Biennial, the UK's largest contemporary art festival. She also emphasized the ease of travel both to and within the UK, with 18 direct flights per week from Kuwait City to London and Manchester, and over 2,500 train stations connecting Britain's towns and cities. In his turn, Gary Robson, VisitBritain Director for Europe, Middle East & India, emphasized the importance of the Kuwaiti market, stating, 'Our collaboration with the British Embassy Kuwait helps us deepen ties in this key GCC region. We are working closely with local influencers and travel trade partners to inspire travel beyond London.' He added, 'Our culturally relevant campaigns, delivered in English and Arabic, are tailored to resonate locally through popular platforms such as Snapchat, which plays a key role in our engagement strategy across Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.'
Arab Times
a day ago
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait facilitates the transit of thousands stranded by Israel-Iran conflict
KUWAIT CITY, June 19: In response to escalating regional tensions triggered by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, Kuwait has stepped in to assist approximately 30,000 travelers stranded due to suspended air traffic. Since last Friday, these travelers — many of different nationalities — have entered Kuwait through the Abdali border crossing, with numbers continuing to rise. According to security sources cited by Al-Rai, Kuwait's Ministry of Interior, under the directives of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, is actively working to facilitate the entry and return of stranded individuals. The operation includes Kuwaitis, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals, and Arab, European, and Asian citizens who have been unable to leave Iran or Iraq due to halted air travel. A structured mechanism has been implemented, allowing travelers to cross from Iran's Shalamcheh port into Iraq, then through the Safwan and Abdali land ports, and onwards to their home countries via Kuwait International Airport or through Nuwaiseeb and Salmi border crossings. For humanitarian purposes, Minister Al-Yousef has authorized a seven-day transit visa for GCC residents holding valid travel tickets, enabling them to pass through Kuwait. Additionally, some European citizens have been granted special entry to facilitate their return via the airport. Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior Major General Ali Al-Adwani has also instructed that all humanitarian services be extended to support the safe and efficient movement of stranded travelers. The Abdali crossing has become a hub of logistical activity, with border and customs officials operating around the clock. Coordination is underway with GCC embassies to evacuate citizens before they arrive at Abdali. The Kuwaiti government has deployed approximately 40 buses to transport travelers from the Safwan crossing to Abdali, streamlining their onward transit. 'All relevant personnel are working at full capacity,' the sources confirmed, 'to ensure travelers can safely and easily reach their destinations with the support and care they need.' Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya reaffirmed Kuwait's commitment to the 'safe and speedy' return of Kuwaiti citizens currently in Iran. In an interview with Al-Akhbar TV, Al-Yahya emphasized that no injuries or infections among nationals have been reported since Israel began a major military campaign against Iran last Friday. 'The safety of our citizens abroad is our top priority,' he said. 'We have begun tallying Kuwaiti nationals in Tehran, Mashhad, and Qom, and are arranging their evacuation through the closest exit points.' Evacuations are being coordinated through land crossings into Iraq, with citizens transported back to Kuwait via secure routes. Additional efforts include moving groups through Turkmenistan and its capital to arrange further repatriation. Al-Yahya noted ongoing coordination with neighboring states to ensure smooth passage and expressed hope for the safe return of all citizens. He also highlighted Kuwait's role, as current chair of the GCC, in convening a virtual ministerial meeting last Saturday. The meeting concluded with a joint statement condemning the Israeli military operations and urging de-escalation and a return to negotiations. Kuwait is also monitoring potential radioactive fallout as a precaution, with current indicators remaining stable. Regarding consular support, Al-Yahya said Kuwait's diplomatic mission in Tehran is active, while other GCC countries operate additional consulates in Mashhad and Qom. This Gulf-wide coordination is ensuring comprehensive coverage for citizens across affected areas. 'We operate as a unified team,' he concluded, 'providing direct support to Gulf nationals wherever they are.'
Kuwait Times
2 days ago
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait activates evacuation plan for citizens in Iran
Diplomatic contacts intensify as Iran's neighboring states open evacuation corridors KUWAIT: Kuwait has activated a full-scale emergency evacuation plan for its citizens currently in Iran, as the war between the Zionist entity and Iran entered its sixth day on Wednesday. The Kuwaiti government is coordinating with neighboring countries and international partners to ensure the safe and swift return of its nationals amid rapidly escalating security concerns. Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya reaffirmed the government's commitment to a 'safe and speedy return' for all Kuwaiti citizens in Iran, stressing that 'no injuries have been reported among them' since the beginning of the Zionist entity's strikes on Iran early Friday. 'The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has prepared a comprehensive emergency evacuation plan for Kuwaiti citizens in Iran in light of the accelerating developments in the region,' Al-Yahya told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Tuesday. Speaking in a televised interview with Al-Akhbar channel on Wednesday, he added, 'Kuwait gives top priority to the safety of its citizens abroad, especially under current circumstances.' Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs Sameeh Hayat confirmed Tuesday that more than 1,000 Kuwaitis, many of them in Iran for visits, are set to be evacuated 'as quickly as possible.' He made the comments during a Philippine Embassy reception in Kuwait. The ministry, said Al-Yahya, has begun tracking and verifying the presence of citizens across multiple cities in Iran as part of the state's emergency plan. 'We started by identifying citizens in the capital, Tehran, then in the cities of Mashhad and Qom. We have contacted all Kuwaitis in these cities, recorded their numbers, and began evacuating them at the earliest opportunity and from the closest crossing points,' he said. Al-Yahya added that evacuations are taking place through land routes between Iran and Iraq, with citizens being transported through Iraqi territory and on to Kuwait. 'The figures are constantly changing, but we are close to finalizing the count in Tehran while work continues in other cities,' he explained. Additionally, evacuations have begun via Turkmenistan, with some citizens transferred to the capital Ashgabat, ahead of their return to Kuwait. 'We are working in full coordination with the competent authorities in neighboring countries to ensure smooth border crossings, and we pray that all our citizens return home safely,' Al-Yahya said. No reported injuries Kuwait has not reported any injuries among its citizens in Iran since the outbreak of hostilities. The Zionist entity's air assault on Iran has so far killed at least 224 people, according to Tehran, including senior military commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians. The toll has not been updated since Sunday. Al-Yahya also confirmed that Kuwait, as current chair of the GCC, had called a virtual meeting with Gulf foreign ministers on Saturday in coordination with the GCC Secretariat. The ministers issued a unified statement condemning the Zionist attacks on Iran, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the resumption of negotiations. On the risk of nuclear escalation, Al-Yahya said Kuwait is cooperating with Gulf states to monitor potential radiological threats, stressing that 'all indicators are currently stable, and the situation is being closely monitored.' Regarding consular services, the foreign minister explained that Kuwait operates only one diplomatic mission in Tehran, while some other Gulf countries have consulates in Mashhad and Qom. 'We operate as a unified Gulf team. Any Gulf citizen in Iran can rely on the nearest Gulf embassy or consulate,' Al-Yahya noted. Regional coordination Deputy Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah held calls with Bahrain's Undersecretary for Political Affairs, Khalid Al-Jalahma, and Turkmenistan's Deputy Foreign Minister, Ahmed Gurbanov, to discuss regional developments and coordination on evacuation logistics. Separately, Foreign Minister Al-Yahya received a call on Tuesday from Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. The two diplomats reviewed the security situation and discussed enhanced international cooperation to ensure regional stability. These diplomatic exchanges come as multiple countries begin evacuating their citizens from Iran. Italy has already moved dozens of nationals to Azerbaijan and Turkey, while Turkmenistan is facilitating the transfer of foreign civilians and diplomats, offering food, shelter, and transport, according to its Foreign Ministry. Bahrain is also coordinating with Turkmenistan to assist its citizens. Bahraini Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif Al-Zayani and his Turkmen counterpart Rashid Meredov agreed on logistical support to allow Bahrainis stranded in Iran to cross into Turkmenistan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to urge Kuwaiti citizens in Iran to remain in contact with the embassy, follow official guidance, and avoid high-risk areas as evacuations progress. — Agencies
Arab Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Arab Times
Peru enchanting destination for Kuwaiti & global tourists
KUWAIT CITY, June 18: The Embassy of the Republic of Peru in Kuwait organized a promotional event to showcase the country's unique tourism offerings. Representatives of local media and several Kuwaiti tourism and travel companies attended the event. Peruvian Ambassador to Kuwait Carlos Enrique confirmed the depth and strength of Kuwaiti-Peruvian relations, indicating these relations are historic and continue to evolve in various fields. He disclosed that the tourism event is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen cultural communication and promote Peruvian tourist destinations. He also unveiled a plan to launch direct flights between Dubai to Peru soon to facilitate access to his country for those seeking a unique travel experience in order to enjoy its pristine nature and rich culture. In addition, Pedro Javier Sedano -- Consul at the embassy -- affirmed that it is easy to obtain a tourist visa to Peru. He said the entire process takes only about three working days; indicating that his country has proposed a draft agreement to the Kuwaiti side to exempt Kuwaiti tourists from visa requirements, and that it is currently under review by the relevant authorities. He disclosed that the Consular Section at the embassy issues around 250 visas annually. He added 'we welcome all Kuwaitis and are working to provide all possible facilities so they can have the best tourism experience in Peru -- from the towering Andes Mountains to the enchanting beaches of the Pacific Ocean.' The promotional event included the special video conference participation by tourism sector officials in Peru and Dubai, who presented promotional videos of the most important destinations and tourist attractions. They also showcased a variety of activities, including visits to historical sites, mountaineering, surfing, safaris, and learning about the ancient Peruvian civilization dating back thousands of years.
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Parliamentary diplomacy & gains from global outreach
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22 and India's calculated military response, the Union government launched an unprecedented diplomatic initiative. From May 23 onwards, seven all-party parliamentary delegations, comprising 59 Members of Parliament from the ruling party and diverse Opposition parties, travelled to over 30 countries, engaging with leaders, policymakers, media, think tanks and the diaspora. These groups were tasked with advancing a clear, unified message: India's zero-tolerance for terrorism and a warning to terrorist networks and their sponsors. Their mission covered permanent UNSC members and strategic partners in Europe, the Americas, Africa and Asia, collectively presenting a single, cohesive voice on behalf of India. This show of solidarity sent a powerful message: The fight against terrorism transcends politics and is a shared national cause. In Washington DC, India's delegation held comprehensive discussions with US vice-president JD Vance, focusing on counter-terrorism and strengthening the India-US strategic partnership. In Brussels, another group met Peter De Roover, President of the Chamber of Deputies of Belgium, who expressed strong solidarity with India. In Bahrain and Kuwait, the delegation held meaningful exchanges with important political leaders including the deputy prime ministers. In Kuwait, our mission organised a Diwaniyah or informal interaction where the delegation had an opportunity to interact with over 40 prominent Kuwaitis, including a former deputy prime minister and former ministers. Other delegations met with senator Nelsinho Trad, president of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee in Brazil, Lord Dominic Johnson of Lainston, co-chair of the Conservative Party, and other senior parliamentarians of the UK, leaders in Spain, Malaysia, Liberia, and other nations, showcasing the breadth of India's diplomatic engagement and the widespread international support for its firm stance against terrorism. In meetings with Korean dignitaries, including National Counter-Terrorism Center officials, the delegation sought support for holding terror perpetrators and their sponsors accountable, linking counterterrorism directly to regional peace and stability. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Algeria extended generous diplomatic courtesies to the Indian delegation. Beyond protocol, it demonstrated the region's deep respect for India and the seriousness with which our message was received. A poignant cultural moment unfolded in Kuwait where local authorities organised an exhibition showcasing trade and monetary ties between India and Kuwait. Few today remember that the Indian rupee served as legal tender in Kuwait and Bahrain from 1947 to 1962, a reflection of the deep historical and economic relationship between our nations. In all four of these Islamic States, the conversations consistently began with a clear message: This was not a conflict between two nations, but a direct attack on the Indian people by elements of the Pakistani military operating under the guise of terrorism. This found immediate resonance, with these countries having experienced conflict and extremism. In meetings with Gulf think tanks, it was repeatedly affirmed that the acts committed in Pahalgam were not isolated terror strikes but coordinated operations orchestrated by Pakistan's army and intelligence services. In Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, the delegation addressed regional leaders and think tanks on the historic missteps India endured during earlier diplomatic overtures. The delegation made it clear that conciliatory diplomacy, such as the 2009 Sharm el Sheikh joint declaration of India and Pakistan, only emboldens the aggressor, against the backdrop of State-sponsored terror. Delegation member Asaduddin Owaisi powerfully expanded on this by identifying Field Marshal Asim Munir — Pakistan's current army chief — as the symbolic thread linking the country's military-intelligence ecosystem to cross-border terrorism. He emphasised Pakistan's placement on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list from 2018 to 2022, and questioned how, despite being under scrutiny, the country continued to receive significant international aid. Instead of strengthening its economy, successive regimes in Pakistan have used this aid to sponsor anti-India terror. The delegations addressed the misconception that only Muslim-majority countries are concerned for the Palestinian people. India has always supported a two-State solution — one that guarantees sovereign, secure futures for both Israel and Palestine. However, it was clarified that the plight of Palestinians today is tragically linked to Hamas, a terrorist organisation that has hijacked governance in Gaza. This affirms India's principled and consistent opposition to terrorism. Our Saudi counterparts demonstrated a remarkable level of alignment with India's approach. Our Prime Minister was in Saudi Arabia when the Pahalgam attack took place, and the delegation felt it was continuing the momentum he had initiated. Saudi think tanks validated our stance by asserting that the Pahalgam attack was 'State-enabled asymmetric warfare'. There are five strategic achievements of this exercise. One, unified national messaging with bipartisan representation showed global interlocutors that India's policy stance is credible, stable, and beyond domestic politics. Two, the delegations highlighted Pakistan's role in orchestrating the Pahalgam attack, urging international actors to take corrective action, including at forums such as the FATF. Three, the outreach helped further isolate Pakistan diplomatically, reinforcing the message that there can be no distinction between terrorists and their sponsors. Four, delegations engaged with the Indian diaspora and local communities abroad, strengthening people-to-people ties and rallying support for India's stand. Five, it made clear the imperative for formalising parliamentary diplomacy, building joint task forces on anti-terror networks, maintaining diaspora ties, and pursuing strategic multilateral coalitions. How India sustains this engagement, builds coalitions, and institutionalises unity as our first line of defence will now be key. Nishikant Dubey is a BJP MP and Harsh Vardhan Shringla is former foreign secretary of India. They were part of the delegation that visited Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain and Algeria in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. The views expressed are personal.
